Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendations for a 2003 Toyota Avalon
Question:
I bought my 2X2 bike rack 10 years ago or so to use with my Tahoe. Now Id like to use it with my 2003 Toyota Avalon. Tell me how I can make this work. Thanks
asked by: Charlie
Expert Reply:
There are bike rack solutions for your 2003 Toyota Avalon but a bike rack with a 2 inch shank will not fit. In order to use a trailer hitch mounted bike rack with a 2 inch shank, you need a trailer hitch with a 2 inch receiver. All of the hitches available for your 2003 Toyota Avalon are Class II with a 1-1/4 inch trailer hitch receiver so a 2 inch bike rack will not fit.
If your Avalon does not already have a trailer hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class II Receiver # 36293. With this hitch installed, you can add a bike rack that is compatible with a 1-1/4 inch trailer hitch. The Swagman Original, # S64351, would be a good choice because it is light weight and compatible with the Class II, 1-1/4 inch trailer hitch. It can also be used on a 2 inch receiver using the included adapter. I have included links to the installation instructions for the hitch and the bike rack for reference.
As another option, you could use an adapter like part # 80303. Because the adapter would add some distance between the rack and the receiver, using the adapter would lower the available tongue weight capacity of the receiver by 50 percent, from 300 lbs to 150 lbs. If the weight of the rack plus the weight of the bikes add up to less than 150 lbs, this would be a valid option.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver (Class II Only)
- Hitch Adapters
- Hitch Expander
- Bike Racks
- Cargo Carriers
- Hitch Mounted Accessories
- 6 Inch Extension
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- 1-1/4 Inch to 2 Inch
- Tow Ready
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 300 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
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