Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver and Bike Rack to Carry 2 Bikes on a 2017 Lexus RX 350

Question:

I want a hitch rack that is for 2 bikes and is light weight and easy to remove from and re into the hitch. Also would like limited or no sway. Please recommend. Also suggest whether I should get a 1 1/4 in hitch or a 2 in hitch. Thanks

asked by: Darryl M

Helpful Expert Reply:

When looking for a trailer hitch receiver we always advise people to go with a 2 inch option if it is available for their vehicle as a 2 inch option will give them access to more accessories to use in their hitch. For your 2017 Lexus RX 305 I recommend going with the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13272 which has a 2 inch receiver and weight ratings of 4,000 lbs for Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and 600 lbs Tongue Weight (TW). The GTW is increase to 5,000 lbs when using a Weight Distribution System.

If you would like a hanging style bike rack then I recommend using the Kuat Beta # B202-2 because it comes fully assembled and weighs a mere 12.6 lbs. The aluminum construction also offers great protection against corrosion giving you a bike rack that is guaranteed to last a long time. To add locks to this bike rack you can use parts # HL2 and # CAB-10.

The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is a great lightweight option for a platform bike rack. It weighs in at just under 30 lbs and features the same locks that the Helium does. The great thing about this platform bike rack is that you can use the tilting feature while the bikes are still loaded. It also secures the bikes by their wheels so it can accommodate almost any bike frame style that doesn't have a fender. The Sherpa 2.0 comes in Gray # SH22G, Black # SH22B, and Pearl # SH22P. Both the Sherpa 2.0 and the Helium are made of aluminum.

A more cost-effective solution for a 2 bike rack that is platform style is the Swagman Chinook 2 Bike Platform Rack # S64683. This bike rack uses the locks and tilting features that the Sherpa 2.0 has but offers a more rugged look and is made of a solid steel construction. This bike rack secures bikes by the top cross tube on their frame so if you have an adult bike with a step-through frame you might need to use an Adapter # 64005 to ensure that the bike is secured.

I have attached some review videos of the bike racks as well as an installation video of the hitch being installed on a similar Lexus RX 350