Recommended Hitch and Hitch Bike Rack for 2018 Hyundai Sonata

Question:

We want to put a bike rack on our Sonata and our son (who works at a car dealership) told us to get a hitch and hitch rack so we don't mess up the new car's paint by installing our trusty old trunk bike rack. I know this car can't tow so do they still make a hitch for it?

asked by: Esther

Expert Reply:

We do have a trailer hitch for your 2018 Hyundai Sonata that will let you install a 2-bike hitch-type bike rack. I recommend the Class I hitch # 24965 from Draw-Tite because it is well-suited for use with a 2-bike rack. It includes all required hardware to bolt it on and you can see the process in the video I linked for you.

Your son is correct that a hitch rack, which does not contact the painted surfaces of your new car, is a better option than a trunk rack. Also, note that trunk racks are not universal fits on all cars; your old one may not fit properly (or safely) on the new Sonata so using a hitch and a hitch rack is sensible. Plus, with a hitch on the car you can also use a hitch cargo carrier if you ever need one.

The best bike rack to use in this hitch really depends on the nature of the bikes themselves and on your budget. The article I linked for you will help you determine the best match to your particular bikes.

If, for example, you want a cost-effective lightweight rack that works with all types of bikes then consider the Curt # C18085. This rack suspends the bikes by their wheels so bikes with fenders are no problem. This rack also includes a tilting feature to make it easier to access the vehicle trunk.

These days many riders are using electric bikes (e-bikes) which can weigh quite a bit, much more than what most bike racks can handle. Some e-bikes can weigh as much as 60 to 80-lbs. For e-bikes, or any other heavy bikes, the rack I recommend is the Thule EasyFold # TH903202. This is a premium-quality bike rack with a price to match, but because of its carefully considered design and great features, it may be the last bike rack you ever need to buy. I'll explain.

The Easyfold fits both hitch sizes, 1-1/4-inch like your Class I Draw-Tite and 2-inch hitches too. It handles heavy bikes (up to 65-lbs) and bikes of pretty much any frame design, thanks to its adjustable clamps that can grip the frame tube or the seat post. It includes a loading ramp so heavy bikes never have to be lifted, a foot-operated tilting feature to give you easy trunk access and locks for both the rack and your bikes. Light weight (45-lbs), a folding feature and built-in wheels make moving it around the garage a breeze. Please see the linked photo that shows these features.

Your Draw-Tite hitch also allows use of a Class I cargo carrier like the Reese # 63155 or # C18110. You can carry cargo on these carriers up to a total weight of 200-lbs (the carrier weight plus the cargo weight). With it you can secure your cargo items with a net like # C18200. I recommend adding a lock # e98880 to safeguard the carrier.