How to Carry 4 Bikes On a 2008 Nissan Rogue with Class II Hitch

Question:

I have a Nissan Rogue 2008 I can only have a 1 1/4 size hitch I want to haul 4 bikes will that be a problem and if not wish should I buy I also will travel a lot I want it to be safe

asked by: John J

Expert Reply:

All of the trailer hitches available for your 2008 Nissan Rogue have a Class II rating, which means you will have no problem carrying 4 bikes as long as you stay under the tongue weight rating of the vehicle and hitch.

If you are still looking for a trailer hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class II Trailer Hitch, item # 36542. This hitch has a tongue weight capacity of 300 lbs, see instructions link, which is common for Class II hitches and will allow you to carry 4 bikes with no problems. Be sure to check your owners manual or with your local Nissan dealer to verify the tongue weight capacity of your Rogue. If it is lower than 300 lbs, then that would be your maximum capacity.

If you already have a 1-1/4 inch hitch on your Rouge you should check the hitch or with the manufacturer of the hitch to be sure that it is a Class II hitch, if it is rated as a Class I hitch you will be limited to carrying 2 bikes on that hitch, for safety. I am not aware of any Class I hitches for the Rogue, but it is important to check.

When using the Thule Hitching Post Pro 4 Bike Carrier, item # TH934XTR, you should load the bikes that are heaviest closer to the vehicle and keep your lighter bikes out farther. This will put less stress on the bike rack, hitch and vehicle frame. We have a video review of this rack for you to check out.

If you will be carrying alternative framed bikes with no top bar you will need the Thule Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Hitch Bike Racks, item # TH982XT, see video link.