3-Bike Rack Solution for 2010 Mazda 3 Hatchback

Question:

Hi Guys, Im shopping for a hitch and a bike rack, for 3 bikes, for my 2010 Mazda 3 hatchback. With the several options available, and with all the advice Im getting from different people, Im so confused and uncertain, please help. One option Im considering, so far, is the Curt 1 1/4inch hitch and the Thule 3 bike Aero, or the Pro 3. I was told that Thule was the best, because theyre aluminum, lightweight, and my car cant hold 3 bikes otherwise. But theyre both crazy expensive. I was just looking at your Swagman Trailhead 3, which is more reasonable. Would that work on my car? Is there a problem with my car carrying 3 bikes? Appreciate your help. Thanks so much!

asked by: Khoal

Helpful Expert Reply:

I have a great solution for a 3-bike carrier for your 2010 Mazda 3 hatchback, but the only available hitches for your vehicle are Class I which is limited to only carrying up to 2 bikes.

Instead of a hitch bike rack, you can use a trunk bike rack to carry 3 bikes.

I highly recommend the Thule OutWay trunk 3-bike rack #TH56BV. You mentioned price. This the is top of the line with all of the features. It is absolutely the easiest trunk rack to install and remove because it only uses two straps instead of the 4-6 of other carriers. It also comes with anti-sway technology and locks for both your rack and your bikes.

If you are looking to spend less, you could go with Thule Passage trunk rack for 3 bikes # TH911XT. This is still great rack with Anti-Sway technology. The difference is that is uses 6 straps instead of 2 and does not include locks.

I have included videos for each of these for you to check out.

If you plan on carrying any women's or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Kuat Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01 to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.