Recommended Bike Rack for 2017 Nissan Rogue  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The square shaped opening that you are referring to is called a trailer hitch. Some vehicles come from the factory with this installed at the rear, while many need to have one installed afterwards if desired.

You can absolutely still use a bike rack on your 2017 Nissan Rogue that doesn't have a trailer hitch installed, and there are a few possible options for doing this.

I do recommend going with a hitch-mounted bike rack, which refers to the type of bike rack you mentioned that will be insterted into a trailer hitch receiver. A hitch-mounted rack will place the rack and bikes away from the vehicle so there is no contact or risk of damaging your Nissan Rogue. A hitch-mounted rack also provides a more sturdy platform for your bikes and typically allows for easier loading and unloading.

Since you do not yet have a trailer hitch on your vehicle, you will need to start by adding one. I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III # 75902. This custom-fit hitch will use existing holes in your Nissan Rogue's frame for a no-drill installation. Any nearby mechanic or shop can also handle this type of installation without issue. I have attached an installation video and the written instructions that you can take a look at.

Then from there it is simply a matter of selecting a hitch-mounted bike rack that fits your needs. You will just need to make sure the bike rack you choose is compatible with the 2 inch opening that the above hitch provides (this will be listed on the product page for any bike rack). I really like the Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Platform Rack # KU24FR. This is an excellent, platform-style rack that will hold your bikes by the wheels so there is no bike frame contact. A foot pedal lets you tilt the rack back for easy rear cargo access on your Nissan Rogue and it can also be folded up for storage when not in use.

I have attached a video demonstration on this bike rack so you can see exactly how it installs and operates.

If you would rather not install a trailer hitch on your vehicle, we also have trunk-mounted bike rack options that are confirmed to fit your Nissan Rogue. These will simply attach to various mounting locations at the rear of your vehicle without the need for any additional parts. I specifically recommend the Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top 2 Bike Carrier # HRF2. This trunk-mounted carrier is designed for vehicles like yours that feature a rear hatch and spoiler. It can handle 2 bikes of up to 35 pounds each. A couple of draw-backs of a trunk-mounted rack is that it will be contacting your vehicle's finish so there is a greater chance of scratches or scuffing. You also won't be able to open the rear hatch with the bikes loaded.

I have again attached a video demonstration on this bike rack so you can get a better idea as to how it installs.

It's also possible with this or any hanging-style rack (one where the rack holds the bikes by their frame instead of the wheels) that you might need an adapter bar like the # UB01. This would be necessary for many children's, woman's, or alternative frame bikes that require a horizontal attachment point to be added. I have included a video demonstration on this product so you can see how it works and why it might be needed.

If you have any further questions about bike racks for your vehicle, please do not hesitate to ask. I have attached a couple articles on bike racks that you might also find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R

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