How To Carry Four Bikes On a 2019 Buick Encore

Question:

I am looking at ordering a Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4inch Item # 36554 for use specifically in carrying 4 Bikes on the Curt 4 Bike Rack for 1-1/4inch and 2inch Hitches - Tilting Item # C18030. As far as i can tell, this is the only possibility of loading 4 bikes on the Encore. Is this possible with the stabilizer strap assuming the rack and bikes are under the 300 lb TW? If not, do you have any other recommendations?

asked by: Andrew

Expert Reply:

The best option to carry four bikes on a 2019 Buick Encore is with a trailer hitch and hitch mounted bike rack. However, since the only hitch available for your Encore is the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C11527 you will be limited to carrying only 2 bikes, even if you have a 4-bike rack. The Curt Hitch is a class I hitch and class one hitches cannot withstand the force of the other 2 bikes so far away from the hitch. The hitch could fail.

For a bike rack, the Thule Helium Pro # TH9042PRO would is a great option and it will work well for two of your bikes. The stabilizer strap you mentioned isn't needed nor would it increase capacity so it's just an extra piece to install each time therefore not what I recommend.

For your other 2 bikes, you could install a roof rack and add two bikes on top. Please let me know if you have any rails now and I can help you get a setup for your other two bikes if you are interested in doing so.

expert reply by: Conner L