Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver And 5 Bike Carrier For 2012 Toyota Sienna

Question:

I am in the process of buying a 5-bike car rack for the trunk of my car. Before I buy the rack, I must get a trailer hitch. I have a 2012 Toyota Sienna. I sense that I will do better with a 2-inch hitch. I searched your website and noticed that there is more than one type of 2-inch hitch. What are the factors that one uses to decide which hitch is best for his needs? I will most likely be buying a Thule or Yakima rack. Thanks in advance.

asked by: Michael

Expert Reply:

For a bike rack to carry 5 bikes, you will need a trailer hitch as no trunk mounted options exist for that capacity.

For your 2012 Toyota Sienna, you will want a 2 inch receiver because most of the racks will not allow you to use a 1-1/4 inch receiver for that weight capacity. For the best hitch for your Sienna, you will want the tongue weight to be more of a priority than the towing capacity. I recommend the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # 75237. This hitch is and easy bolt on installation and a tongue weight rating of 675 lbs. This will give you options for towing if you choose to do so in the future as well.

For your bike rack, I recommend the Thule Apex XT 5 Bike Rack # TH9026XT. This is a lightweight rack at 35 lbs with a simple lever tilting design for access to your cargo. It has all the locks integrated into the design, so you don't need to add a hitch lock or cable lock. It has arched arms and really nice road dampening cradles. I've attached a video to assist.

I recommend the Swagman Deluxe Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's, Children's, and Alternative Frame Bikes # 64005 for any bikes without a top frame rail for level transport and ground clearance.

expert reply by: Jason S