Compatibility of the Kuat 2.0 Bike Rack Plus Kuat Add-On to Fit a 2013 Nissan Leaf

Question:

Hi Team, Im wondering what your opinion is of installing this hitch and using the Kuat NV 2.0 + the add on to carry three light weight bikes total bike weight ~70 lbs. Would the combination exceed the recommended 150 lb tongue weight for the Leaf? Thank you!!

asked by: SLC D

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you, but the Kuat 2.0 Rack and Add-on cannot be used on your 2013 Nissan Leaf.

Your best option would be a 3 bike trunk mounted bike rack. The Yakima FullBack 3 Bike Rack, # Y02633, would work well on you Nissan Leaf. The Yakima rack can carry 3 bike up to a total weight of 90 lbs. The rack mounts to the back of the Leaf using 4 cam buckle straps and uses foam pads to protect your vehicle's finish. The carrier is lightweight at 20 lbs. The only restriction you would have using this rack would be you cannot use the rear wiper, if applicable, when the rack is installed.

The weight of the Kuat 2.0 bike Platform Rack, # NV12G, is 52 lbs by itself. The Kuat Add-On for Kuat Bike Racks. # NV22G, weighs 30 lbs. Together both racks will weigh 82 lbs plus adding the three bikes that you say weigh 70 lbs you are looking at a total weight of 152 lbs.

The Curt Trailer Hitch, # C11396, for the 2013 Nissan Leaf has a total tongue weight of 150 lbs. I would not recommend using this combination being that it would bring you over the tongue weight limit.

Also, since the Curt hitch is a Class I rated hitch, the maximum capacity for this rack is 2 bikes, plus you would also need to use a stabilizing strap, like # 18050, with the Curt hitch on all non-towing applications.