Trailer Hitch Receiver Comparison for Bike Rack on a 2013 Chevy Malibu

Question:

We have a 2013 Chevrolet Malibu LS. We are interested in purchasing a trailer hitch and bike rack. I am thinking of using a draw-tite hitch because we do not need the stabilizing strap like you do the Curt. I would like to know the difference between the models 36358 and Curt. We are concerned about the clearance the hitch will have since the car sits so low. I am also interested in the Swagman bike rack XTC-2. Please let me know if you have any suggestions or comments about which products might be best for our car. Thanks,

asked by: Darryl C

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your 2013 Chevy Malibu LS there are two hitches available. The part # C12115 and the part # 36358 that you mentioned. Both are a fit for your vehicle and would be a great choice for a bike rack but the difference is the two use slightly different attachment methods which means the part # C12115 will be slightly easier to install. Because of that it would be what I recommend.

The Swagman XTC2 part # S64670 is a great bike rack that you would like. But a better option I would recommend is the Hollywood Racks # HR200Z as we have found that this rack has less movement when travelling down the road. I attached a review video that shows this rack being demoed on a similar Malibu as yours as well as a test course video that shows it's movement.

I also attached the test course video for the Swagman for comparison.

expert reply by: Jameson C