Platform Bike Rack for 2 Bikes and a 2012 Toyota RAV4

Question:

Would you please recommend several options for the following requirements if possible: carry 2 bikes 1 mens 1 womens LIGHT and EASY to install center of hitch pin to edge of spare tire cover is approximately 7 fit 1.25inch or 2inch receiver locking I think i prefer a platform unless there is a hanging type that is very light where the bikes are secure/dont move, and i dont need a cross bar for the womens bike. Suitable for highway travel

asked by: Todd K

Expert Reply:

For your needs the Saris Freedom # SA4412B is going to be the best option. I think you will really like this rack. First, it is very light weight at just 22-1/2 pounds. That makes it easy to install/remove from the trailer hitch. It can fit 1-1/4 inch (Class II) and 2 inch trailer hitches. It can be locked but you would need to add locking hitch pin # SA3022, sold separately. You will not need an adapter bar for the woman's bike frame. It measures 12 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the nearest wheel tray. I have linked a video review of this rack for you.

Another great option is the RockyMounts MonoRail # RKY10004 for 2 inch hitches or # RKY10003 for 1-1/4 inch hitches. This rack holds the bikes at the wheels so frame design does not matter. It comes with bike and hitch locks so you would not need to add them separately. Once installed it is 11 inches from pin hole to the closest part of the rack. But this one is a little heavier at 38 pounds. That is still very light for a platform rack. I have linked a video review of this rack as well.

If none of these racks pique your interests then just let me know and I can make other recommendations for you.

expert reply by: Michael H

Steve V.

7/6/2020

I have a 2011 Toyota RAV4 with a class 3 2" hitch, and I'm looking for a 2-bike platform rack that is fairly compact and easily storable. I was originally looking at the Swagman XC (S64650), and possibly the Thule TH9900XT. I noticed that the Swagman is only offered in a class 2. Is there some kind of an adapter for a class 3 hitch? Now the Saris looks interesting primarily because one of my bikes is a women's step-through bike that would probably need an adaptor bar for the Swagman, and it looks like the Saris doesn't need one, but the Saris doesn't seem to fold as neatly as the Swagman does. would the Saris need an extender? Any other suggestions?

Chris R.

7/10/2020

The Swagman XC # S64650 would work on your Class III 2" hitch, but it's only not the best option. You would indeed need an adapter bar for the step-thru frame and the wheel hoops don't provide much stability or security. I do really like the Saris Freedom # SA4412B for your application because of those adjustable clamps that prevent the need for an adapter bar and its robust 60 pound per bike capacity. Does your RAV4 have a rear mounted spare? If so, measure from the center of the hitch pin hole to the tire's outermost edge - as long as it's less than 12" no extender will be needed.