Recommended 4-Bike Rack and Hitch for a 2008 Toyota Highlander for Adult and Kids Bikes

Question:

What do you recommend for me? I am a woman and want a bike rack that will be easy for me to use. I want to primarily use it to quickly haul my bike a short distance to hop on bike trails a few times a week. I also want to be able to bring my husband and two kids sometimes. I drive to work with a crowded garage so I plan to install it on my days off and and then take it off my highlander each week as I dont think I feel comfortable commuting with the rack folded. Maybe I could get used to it though. Thank you for your suggestions!

asked by: Renee C

Expert Reply:

In order to use a hitch mounted bike rack on your 2008 Toyota Highlander you will first need a trailer hitch for which I recommend the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 75586 because it does not stick out quite as far as the other options for your Highlander and it is a custom fit so no drilling is required. I have attached an install photo/video for you.

For a bike rack, the one I think will work best for you is the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 4 Bike Platform Rack part # HR1400Z because it is one of the most, if not the most versatile bike rack we offer because it can be used to carry a ton of different types of bikes which is due to the amount of available adapters for it.

The Sport Rider has a 50 lb per bike weight capacity, comes with locks for security, and can be folded up for storage (on or off the vehicle). It is also backed by a lifetime warranty. The wheel trays can be moved to accommodate the short wheelbase on your kid's bikes.

If you want something that is lightweight therefore easier to take on an off the vehicle, I recommend the Thule Hitching Post Pro part # TH934XTR which only weighs around 35 lbs. The downside of this however is that you may need an adapter bar, the Swagman Deluxe Bike Frame Adapter Bar part # 64005 for kid's or women's bikes.