Hitch or Trunk Mount Bike Rack for 2019 Honda CR-V

Question:

I have a question. You've probably heard this one before lol. I have a new 2019 Honda CR-V. I will be using it to take our bikes to the trail and am debating on whether a trunk or hitch option would be best. Any recommendations? Thank you for your help.

asked by: Thom

Expert Reply:

In general I always recommend a hitch-mounted bike rack over a trunk-mount option but for your 2019 Honda CR-V the reasoning is even stronger. This is because the 2019 CR-V comes equipped from the factory with a feature that automatically activates the rear wipers when the vehicle is put in reverse during inclement weather. This essentially means that a trunk-mounted rack couldn't be mounted to the vehicle when it's raining unless you knew for certain you would only need to drive forward.

In addition to the above vehicle-specific reasoning, a hitch-mounted rack is a better choice because it will move the carrier away from the vehicle's surface, eliminating any concern of scratches or dents that a trunk-mount option might leave behind. You will also have the option of carrying more bikes (and more weight) with a hitch-mounted carrier than with a trunk-mounted option.

If you don't yet have a hitch installed on your 2019 Honda CR-V I recommend the Curt Class III # C13397 because of its sleek hidden design where only the 2 inch receiver is visible (see attached image). I have attached the installation instructions that you can check out as well.

Then for a bike rack I really like the Kuat Transfer 2 # KU74FR. This is an excellent platform-style carrier that uses ratcheting hooks to secure the bikes by their front wheels without any frame contact. It features an easy-to-use foot pedal that allows you to tilt the rack back with the bikes still loaded for easy rear cargo access (see attached image) and it can hold 2 bikes that are up to 40 pounds each.

I have attached a short video demonstration that you can also check out.

expert reply by: Chris R