Recommendation For Hitch and 5-Bike Hitch Bike Rack to Fit 2008 Volvo XC90

Question:

Am planning on getting a hitch installed to hold a bike rack on our 2008 XC90. We would like to get a bike rack that holds 5 bikes - which would you recommend? Also what type of hitch would you recomment for this rack? We want to keep cost down as much as possible. Thanks!

asked by: Melissa J

Expert Reply:

The hitch I would recommend for your 2008 Volvo XC90 is the Curt Class III 2-Inch Hitch, part # 13559. This hitch has a tongue weight capacity of 500 lbs when equiped with a weight distribution system and 350 lbs without the system.

For a 5-bike hitch bike rack on your XC90 I would recommend the Thule Apex 5-Bike Rack, part # TH9026XT. These are our two most popular 5-bike racks. The weight capacity on the Thule is 150 lbs.

With that many bikes, I would recommend mounting them in alternating directions and if any of them have angled or alternative frames, then I would recommend using an adapter bar like the Thule Bike Adapter Bar, part # TH982XT.

Bikes with angled or alternative frames can be difficult to mount and will sometimes mount in awkward positions making it difficult to fit additional bikes. This adapter bar will allow you to carry the bikes level.

I am including a link to a video review on the Thule adapter bar.