Trailer Hitch and 4 Bike Hanging Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2012 Toyota Highlander
Question:
Can you please recommend a low profile hitch and a bike rack for a 2012 Toyota Highlander? I need to tow 4 bikes, including 2 childrens 20 and 18 bikes. Would like a hanging rack that tilts away. Tilt away feature while loaded would be nice but not priority if there is something better. Need to be able to lock it also.
asked by: Allison
Expert Reply:
If you want to carry 4 bikes I definitely recommend going with Class III trailer hitch because of its higher capacity and plethora of accessory options. The Draw-Tite hitch, # 75586, would be my first choice but # 75726 is less visible since the bracket goes over the exhaust rather than under it. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you.
For a bike rack, I believe I have the perfect rack for you. Take a look at the Yakima FullSwing 4 Bike Rack - 2" Hitches - Swing Away # Y02465. This rack has all the features you are looking for and swings to the side of your highlander to give you full access to the back of your vehicle. It locks at the hitch and comes with an integrated cable lock for the bikes to deter theft.
If any of your bikes do not have a bar straight across like a typical "boys" bike , you would want to add the Advantage SportsRack Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes # HE6009.
Products Referenced in This Question
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 500 lbs TW
- 5000 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 500 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 750 lbs TW
- 5000 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 750 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Advantage SportsRack Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Adapter Bar
- Frame
- 15-1/2 - 28 Inch Long
- Heininger Holdings
more information >
Yakima FullSwing Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Swing Away
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Swing-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 4 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Yakima
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 750 lbs TW
- 5000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: 2023 Best Gifts for Haulers & Towers
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: Slipper Spring Trailer Suspension System Review
- Q&A: Replacement 12 Inch Brake Assemblies for Redline EB01-140 and EB01-145 From Dexter Axle
- Q&A: Best Ground Clearance Hitch Receiver for Carrying a Bike Rack on a 2013 Toyota highlander
- Article: Roadmaster Tow Bar Feature Descriptions
- Q&A: Will Thule Upride Roof Bike Rack Fit 2012 Toyota Highlander with Factory Crossbars
- Q&A: Does Thule UpRide Bike Rack Fit 2022 Subaru Outback Factory Roof Rack
- Q&A: Bike Rack for 2013 Toyota Highlander That Allows Rear Hatch Access
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: How to Determine if a 2012 Toyota Highlander has a Factory Tow Package
- Article: 5 Tell-Tale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Trailer’s Leaf Springs
- Q&A: What are the Dimensions of a #99 Spindle