Recommended Hitch and 2-Bike Rack for 2016 Ford Edge Sport
Question:
Im looking to get a hitch for my 2016 Ford Edge Sport and Im trying to minimize changes to the vehicles appearance. Also, how does this get installed? Lastly, we want it for a bike rack, so doesnt need to be heavy duty. Do you have recommendations for a solid two-bike hitch rack for an SUV? Thanks!
asked by: Richard
Expert Reply:
For your 2016 Ford Edge Sport I recommend the 2-inch Class III hitch option over the 1-1/4-inch Class II since it will give you a better safety margin for handling the weight of your chosen bike rack and bikes. Plus a 2-inch hitch will be able to work with more accessory items, such as a cargo carrier like # C18151, in case that is ever in your future plans. Considering the small price difference, a Class III hitch like # 75234 is usually the better choice. In terms of appearance, the Draw-Tite # 75234 will offer a cleaner look thanks to its concealed cross tube.
If you prefer a 1-1/4-inch Class II hitch you can use the Curt # C12140 but note that the Curt hitch warranty policy requires that you also use their stabilizing strap # 18050 when you use a bike rack or other non-trailer load in the hitch. No matter what hitch you choose, do please note that the center lift gate sensors will be blocked by the hitch tube; the other sensors on the outside edges of the bumper will function as before. This hitch does not have a concealed cross tube.
Installing a Class III hitch is no more challenging than a Class II and many of our customers handle it themselves. All of the hardware required comes with the hitch. Draw-Tite hitch # 75234 requires no drilling, but will require trimming of underbody panels and grinding off a metal stud from the frame on the Sport. Since this is a bit more complicated type of install, I have sent you a separate email with a link to their installers.
You have many excellent options in a 2-bike or higher-capacity rack. We offer platform type racks like the Swagman XC # S64650, for example. This platform carrier offers 4-inches of height rise in the shank for better ground clearance and it secures the bikes at 3 points (each wheel and at the frame). It can handle tires as wide as 3-1/2-inches, wheelbases up to 51-1/2-inches and you can add anti-rattle lock # S64031 to secure both the rack and your bikes. I linked a video showing this rack in use on a Ford Edge.
If you prefer a hanging rack we offer many choices that will suit different types of bikes. For a solidly-made hanging rack that won't break the bank, consider the Swagman Original 3, part # S64152-2, for 2-inch hitches. Even if you have only 2 bikes, a 3-bike carrier means extra space between bikes which can make loading easier. I own this exact rack and have found it to be very sturdy and easy to use. Please see the linked video.
Please feel free to tell me a bit about your bikes and I can help you choose the best rack option to suit your bikes, preferences and budget. The linked article on hitch bike racks may be helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Tie Down Straps
- CURT
more information >
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 675 lbs TW
- 4500 lbs GTW
- 4500 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 675 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
20x59 Curt Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - Steel - Folding - 500 lbs
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Flat Carrier
- Folding Carrier
- 20 Inch Wide
- Heavy Duty
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 60 Inch Long
- Class III
- Class IV
- Steel
- CURT
more information >
Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable for Swagman Bike Racks w/ 1-1/4" & Combo Shanks - 7'
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Rack Specific Locks
- Keyed Unique
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Threaded Pin
- For Swagman Racks
- 2-3/4 Inch Span
- Swagman
more information >
Swagman Original RV Bike Rack for 3 Bikes - 2" Hitches
- RV and Camper Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- RV Hitch Rack
- Frame Mount
- Locks Not Included
- 3 Bikes
- Road Bikes
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Motorhome
- Travel Trailer
- Fifth Wheel
- Flat-Towed Vehicle
- Swagman
more information >
Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Frame Mount
- Locks Not Included
- 2 Bikes
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Swagman
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
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