Recommended Trailer Hitch And Bike Carrier For 2013 Toyota Prius

Question:

I have a 2013 Prius II. I notice that you recommend Draw-Tite for use with bicycle rack. Is there a technical reason that the Curt requires stablizer strap and not the others or are they simply being cautious when, really, one should also use straps for the others? I favored the Curt over Hidden and Draw-Tite because it shows as US-made. Are the others also made in USA, although their ad doesnt say so? Finally, what is the most common ball size for bike rack attachments? If you sell racks, which do you recommend?

asked by: Brad

Expert Reply:

All of the trailer hitches we offer for a Prius feature the same tongue weight and towing capacity, and have to pass the same safety requirements regardless of where they are made.

If you are looking for a US made hitch then the Curt hitch, part # C11276 is the one to choose. This is a Class l hitch and it has a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. Curt does have a technical note that all non-trailer loads must use stabilizer straps like part # 18050, or it will void the warranty. This is an extra precaution Curt takes. Stabilizer straps are never a bad idea to help reduce stress on the hitch and the carrier installed in the hitch.

A hitch ball isn't needed for a hitch mount bike rack. The bike rack slides into the hitch receiver opening in place of a ball mount. You will need a hitch ball if you're going to be towing. The trailer's coupler fits a specific ball size that you need to match.

If you'll be towing the recommended ball mount for the Curt hitch is # C45521. The pin and clip I recommend is part # F-4. for a 1-7/8 inch hitch ball I recommend part # A-80 and for a 2 inch hitch ball I recommend part # A-82.

For a hitch mounted bike carrier I recommend the Thule Helium Aero, part # TH9042PRO. This is a lightweight aluminum bike carrier for 2 bikes and it has a locking system that secures the carrier to the vehicle and also a cable lock that secures the bikes to the carrier.

If you are planning on carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes I recommend using an adapter bar like part # 64005. This attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carried more level in the carrier while providing additional ground clearance. I have attached a product review video for this adapter bar.