Hidden Hitch VS Regular Hitch for Carrying Bikes on a 2012 Mazda 5

Question:

Are there are differences besides visibility with the hidden hitch vs. regular hitch? I want to put a hitch on my 2012 Mazda 5 for a bike rack. Is there a greater risk of scratches or dings by having a hidden hitch? Do I have to buy additional parts for the hidden and if so what? Also, if they make a 4 bike rack for a 1 1/4inch hitch is it ok to use? Thanks for your time

asked by: Becky

Expert Reply:

Hidden Hitch is a brand name and the receiver will end up in the same position and will typically install much the same as the other brands of hitches that fit on your 2012 Mazda 5. there are not advantages or dis-advantages for your vehicle when using the Hidden Hitch brand. No additional parts will be needed for carrying a bike rack with any of the hitches available for your car, except the bike rack itself.

For carrying a bike rack on your 2012 Mazda 5, I would recommend using the Hidden Hitch model, # 60291 (no longer available), if you think you might need to do some towing at some point, because it comes with the correct ball mount, pin and clip. You would need to add a properly sized hitch ball to match the trailer you would be towing though.

If you will only be using a hitch for a bike rack, then save a couple of bucks and go with the Draw-Tite model, # 24874, that does not include the ball mount.

For a bike rack you will be limited to carrying 2 bikes in a Class I hitch because the distance that additional bikes extend out from the rear of the vehicle will create too much torque for the hitch or vehicle frame.

If you will be using the bike rack in other vehicles with a Class II or III hitch, then you could go with the Swagman Trailhead 4 Bike Carrier, # S63380, and carry more bikes when used on other vehicles.

expert reply by: Robert G