Recommended Bike Carrier For Leased 2013 Ford Focus ST

Question:

Hi, I would like to install a hitch for a 2 bike hitch rack. Unfortunately the car is a lease and Ford do not allow me to drill into car. Any hitches available without Drilling. I have Minimum load since I will never use it to tow anything, just Transporting two bikes. Thanks,

asked by: Alexander F

Expert Reply:

Unfortunately, we do not offer a trailer hitch that does not require drilling the vehicle frame. since it is a lease vehicle I understand not wanting to drill the frame for a hitch. I do have a solution for you.

I recommend a trunk mount bike carrier like the Hollywood Racks Over-The-Top, part # HRF2. This bike carrier is designed for vehicles that have spoilers. This bike rack has adjustable arms that help keep the bikes level and it fold down for easy storage.

Another rack I recommend is the Thule OutWay, part # TH45JV. This is one of our nicer bike racks because it uses only 2 rubber coated straps to secure the bike rack to your Focus instead of the standard 4-6 of other racks. This is the easiest rack to install, and the rack has locks that secure the carrier to the car and the bikes to the carrier. The rack folds flat when not in use for easy storage. Per Thule this rack is a fit but if you have a large spoiler on the back of your Focus then the # HRF2 may work better for you.

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.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L