Is a Hitch Bike Rack a Better Option Than Trunk Bike Rack on 2014 Toyota Highlander?

Question:

wanted your opinion on the best trunk mount for a 2014 Toyota Highlander. or is it better to purchase a trailer hitch and a hitch type rack? thanks

asked by: W

Expert Reply:

A hitch-mounted bike rack is an objectively better option to carry bikes on any vehicle for a number of reasons. A hitch-mounted rack gives you more options in terms of th type of bikes you can carry, as well as how they get carried. For example, you can get a rack which will secure your bikes by the wheels instead of by the frame, and there are options for hitch-mounted racks that have the ability to fold up and tilt to allow you access to your cargo area. It is also going to be much, much easier to put a hitch rack on and take it off than a trunk-mounted rack, which consists of numerous straps as opposed to sliding a rack in a hitch and tightening it.

For a hitch on your 2014 Toyota Highlander I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch # e98844, which is a Class III hitch with a 2" receiver and will not require any type of drilling into your Highlander's frame to install.

As for a bike rack, I highly recommend checking out the Kuat Sherpa 2.0, which comes in your choice of colors: Black # SH22B, Pearl # SH22P, or Gray # SH22G. This is a wheel-mount rack which uses ratcheting hooks to grasp your bikes by the front wheels so there is no frame contact and also has rear-wheel cradles with ratcheting straps to secure your bikes rear wheels.

The Sherpa 2.0 can be tilted down - even with the bikes loaded - with the press of a handy foot lever, and can also fold up for when the bikes are not being carried. It does not require any tools to install into your hitch as you'll only need to turn a knob to tighten the rack in the hitch; this also works as an anti-rattle device so you can get a quiet ride. Additionally, the Sherpa 2.0 comes with a hitch lock to secure the rack to your Highlander and a cable lock to secure your bikes to the rack and help protect your investments. This is a lightweight, 32 lb rack which has a weight capacity of 40 lbs per bike and fits bikes with tire widths up to 3", wheelbases up to 47" and wheels that are 25" to 29". I've added links to video reviews of this rack for you to check out as well.