Best Bike Rack That Wont Affect Gas Mileage Gas Mileage for a 2018 Toyota Prius

Question:

I will be doing a lot of traveling with my 2018 Toyota Prius and I want to tote my bike around. Since I purchased the vehicle with gas mileage in mind I am concerned about what the best option would be that would affect gas mileage the least.

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

The best option for transporting your bike with your 2018 Toyota Prius is a hitch mounted bike rack. A roof mount bike rack will definitely cause wind drag and a trunk mount option will restrict rear hatch access and it also makes contact with your new vehicle.

To carry a hitch mount bike rack you obviously need a trailer hitch. I recommend using the Draw-Tite Sportframe # 24966 which is a Class I trailer hitch that doesn't require the use of the support strap # 18050 for non-trailer loads like the Curt option does.

The best way to reduce the effects of a bike rack on your vehicle is to use one that is lightweight. I recommend the RockyMounts HighNoon # RKY87RR since it sounds like you will only be traveling with one bike. This bike rack only weighs 29 lbs but can carry a bike that weighs up to 60 lbs with a max tire width of 5".

I have attached videos for the trailer hitch and the bike rack for you to reference.

expert reply by: Jon G