Trailer Hitch Recommendation for 2013 Lexus RX 350 to Carry Bike Rack

Question:

Hitch for 2013 Lexus RX 350 All-wheel drive Not F-Sport. Ideally would not like to lose any ground clearance due to hitch. It will be primarily used for a bike rack 2 bikes at least. What would you recommend? Thank you.

asked by: Sol P

Expert Reply:

The trailer hitch I strongly recommend for your 2013 Lexus RX 350 is the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch # 75676 because it will give you approximately 14 inches of clearance from the bottom of the hitch to the ground; if you take a look at the accompanying photos of this hitch installed on a '13 RX 350 you can see that it sits up above other components of the car.

The Draw-Tite is a Class III hitch with a 2 inch receiver so you have plenty of options for a bike rack. I have added a link to an install of this hitch on a 2013 Lexus RX 350 that you can use as a guide for installation.

For a bike rack, I highly recommend checking out the Saris Freedom # SA4412B because it has a 8 inch rise in the shank so it won't cause any ground clearance issues, weighs only 22.5 lbs making it easier to handle than most other bike racks, and has a 60 lb per bike capacity. It comes with an anti-rattle hitch lock which secures the rack to your hitch as well as minimizing rattle. This means not only is your investment protected but you also get a quiet ride.

If you are looking to carry more than two bikes I recommend the Saris SuperClamp EX 4 Bike Platform Rack # SA4026F, which has an even larger, 8-1/2 inch rise in the shank, has a lever which allows you to easily tilt or fold the rack, and comes with locks for your bikes and the rack.

Additionally, both of these bike racks are made in the USA and are highly durable; so much so that each comes with a lifetime warranty, so it can be the last bike rack you ever need to purchase.

I have added links to video reviews of these racks for you to take a look at.