Recommended Platform-Style 4-Bike Hitch Rack for 2010 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

Question:

What is the best hitch platform bike rack for four bikes for a 2010 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring AWD SUV? I have been looking at the newish Curt CURT 18086 Hitch-Mounted Tray-Style Bike Rack and am wondering if you have any thoughts on that. I have also been looking at the Swagman and the Hollywood models. Would any of these clear the back bumper of the CX-9 to fold up vertically when no bikes are on them? Thanks!

asked by: Timothy

Expert Reply:

Your 2010 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring AWD can be fitted with two different classes of hitch, either a 1-1/4-inch Class II from Curt, part # C12112, or a 2-inch Class III from any of several makers. All can be seen by clicking on the link provided for you. A 4-bike platform rack can be used only on a 2-inch hitch like Curt # 13575.

When we installed this hitch on your car we found that the hitch pin hole was 4-3/4-inches from the back edge of the bumper. Please see the linked video. This means that you need a rack with at least 5-inches of clearance in order for it to fit without contacting the vehicle.

The Swagman XTC4 4-Bike Rack # S64665 will not be able to fit on your car when it is folded up in its storage position but we have plenty of good options.

A link is provided to show you all 4-bike platform racks that fit a 2-inch hitch. You can click on the filters on the page to choose features that you want, such as included locks, or to select a particular brand.

A versatile and cost-effective rack I really like is the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HR1400Z is another excellent option. This rack includes locks for both the bikes and the rack itself and its 7-inches of clearance means no interference with your rear bumper. It also works as both a 2- and 4-bike carrier.

You will want to check your hitch's sticker for its tongue weight (TW) capacity. Be sure that the combined weight of your 4 bikes plus the weight of the chosen rack does not exceed the hitch's capacity or the vehicle's TW capacity as noted in the owner's manual.