How to Carry 3 Bikes on a 2011 Nissan Versa Hatchback

Question:

I noticed the Yakima Highlite 3 is meant to be Class II, but fits in Class I hitches that do not have the tab that blocks the inserted bar. Of the three custom hitches for the Nissan Versa Hatchback 2011, only this one doesnt show a picture of the blocking tab. Can you confirm that there is 1-1/2inch past the center of the hitch hole toward the front of car so that the Yakima can be mounted? I read that the hitch is only meant for two bikes because it is rated for 200 lbs vertical on the tongue. What if the three bikes were measured to be lighter than 200 lbs? Would it be safe to carry three in this case? Thanks! Can wait to order my hitch!

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

I have a solution that will allow you to carry 3 bikes on your 2011 Nissan Versa hatchback but not with a trailer hitch. It isn't the weight of the bikes and rack that is the issue with Class I hitches. It is the distance the third or more bikes would be from the hitch receiver. That distance puts a lot of leverage on the hitch receiver; like when a lug nut is easier to loosen the longer the handle is on the wrench.

To carry 3 bikes on your Versa I recommend a trunk mount bike rack. I have included a link to the 3-bike models that will fit your car. The Thule Passage # TH911XT is tried and true but if the Versa has any sort of spoiler at the top of the rear hatch I recommend the Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top rack # HRF2-3. The Over-the-Top rack was designed to fit over/around spoilers so no stress is put on them. I have linked videos of both bike racks for you.

expert reply by: Michael H