Option for Carrying 4 Bikes with a 2012 Mazda 5

Question:

Hello, based on your response to the question in the following link, will this hitch allow me to use a 4-bike hitch mounted carrier? Is this option only available for the 2012 model Mazda 5? http://www.etrailer.com/question-25074.html Im a bit confused as there was an earlier expert post that stated that a 4-bike carrier would be too much: http://www.etrailer.com/question-15238.html Thank you for your time and assistance.

asked by: Todd R

Expert Reply:

On a Class I hitch you should never carry more than 2 bikes with a hitch mounted bike rack. The reason is because of the additional weight and leverage of the additional 2 bikes would be too much for the hitch/frame and would most likely cause damage. I attached an FAQ on hitch classifications for you to check out.

At this time there are only Class I hitches available for your vehicle (like the Curt Trailer Hitch # C11127 you referenced). However, you if you really need to transport 4 bikes you could install a roof rack if you do not have one and then put bike racks up there. I attached a page that has all of the different roof racks available for your vehicle for you to check out.

For a roof bicycle rack you could get a couple Thule FastRide Fork-Mount Bike Carriers # TH95JV. You will need to check to see what the carrying capacity of your roof is to make sure you would not be overloading your vehicle.

expert reply by: Jameson C