Recommended Trailer Hitch for 2017 BMW X5 M Sport

Question:

I was looking at the Draw Tite 75600 and Curt 13077 hitch receivers for my 2017 BMW X5 with M-Sport Package. It recommends a stabilizing strap for the Curt, but the Draw Tite does not require the stabilizing strap. We will be using the Thule Doubletrack Pro2 platform bike rack TH9054. Between the two hitch receivers, which would be best to install on my vehicle, or would one fit better than the other? Not being an expert, it looks as though the Draw Tite would be a better choice since it does not require the stabilizing straps that require being hooked onto the top of the back hatch, which might cause damage to the vehicle or stress/pull on the hatch, not to mention being a pain to have to deal with. I realize Curt may be a new brand, but, in my opinion, newer isnt always necessarily better. BTW, your installation/help videos are awesome. Thanks!

asked by: Lori L

Expert Reply:

The Curt Class III Round Tube Receiver Hitch # 13077 that you referenced is actually the only hitch available that is confirmed to fit your 2017 BMW X5 that has the M-Sport Package. The Draw-Tite hitch that you also mentioned is indeed designed for the BMW X5, but it will not fit the M model.

You are correct that Curt does require that a stabilizing strap # 18050 be used with any non-trailer load like a bike rack. This isn't an indication of the strength of the hitch when compared to the Draw-Tite model but simply an extra precaution that Curt takes with a lot of their trailer hitches. It is an extra component you will need to use when installing your Thule DoubleTrack Pro XT # TH92BJ but it really does offer great benefit (even for Draw-Tite hitches). Even stable racks like the DoubleTrack one tend to experience a lot of movement and bounce during travel, which can put a lot of stress on your bikes and the hitch. Adding a strap like this stabilizes the whole assembly so you don't have to worry about this movement causing any damage.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this strap being used with a bike rack so you can see exactly how it will install.

expert reply by: Chris R