Recommendation for Carrying 4 Bikes on 2016 Toyota Prius V

Question:

Hi, I would like to use a bike hitch to take four bikes on holidau. Mine ladies bike, standard mens and two kids 16inch bikes. We have a Toyota prius itech v 2016 and would like to install a low profile tow hitch only for the bikes. No wiring is required. What do you recommend? Regards

asked by: Lara A

Expert Reply:

For your 2016 Toyota Prius V, I recommend the Draw-Tite Sportsframe Trailer Hitch Receiver, Class I # 24847. This hitch is confirmed to fit all models of the 2016 Prius V and will not require any drilling or welding for installation. The installation instructions and an installation video on a similar Prius are attached for you.

Since this trailer hitch is a Class I rated hitch, it is limited to carrying 2 bikes on a hitch mounted carrier. This is because a Class I hitch is not designed to withstand the additional force placed on the hitch by a 3rd or 4th bike. All of the trailer hitches designed to fit your vehicle are Class I trailer hitches. I have a solution for you to carry 4 bikes on your Prius, but they simply cannot all be carried on the hitch.

You will want to ensure that you have a bike rack that is compatible with a Class I hitch, like the Swagman XTC-2 # S64670. I really like this platform-style bike rack because it will hold your bikes securely at 3 points and will work with a variety of different bikes. I've attached a review video of this bike rack for you.

To carry the other 2 bikes on your Prius, I recommend using a roof rack. I really like the Rhino-Rack RS 2500 Roof Rack for Naked Roofs # RRRS696B. These bars have a more aerodynamic shape than more traditional square or round crossbars and have a flush design to look more like a factory system. To help determine which bikes are best to be carried on the roof, I recommend checking your owner's manual or speaking with Toyota about the weight capacity of your vehicle's roof.

The roof mounted bike rack I recommend for you is the Yakima FrontLoader Wheel Mount Bike Carrier # Y02103. This carrier will hold the bike by the wheels, making no contact with the frame and it will not require the front wheel to be removed. You will want 2 of these racks to carry 2 bikes. I've attached a review video of this rack for you as well.