Trailer Hitch and 4-Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring

Question:

Im looking to buy a receiver hitch and a bike rack for up to 4 for the following: Make: Mazda Model: CX-5 Variant: Grand Touring

asked by: Javier G

Expert Reply:

To carry a 4-bike rack with your 2016 Mazda CX-5 Ground Touring you're going to need a trailer hitch with a 2" receiver, and for that I recommend the Curt # C13315 because we have found that the Curt hitches have better welds and a thicker powder coat which helps them to last longer. Since you have the Ground Touring model there is an underbody trim piece that will need to be permanently removed, but that is the case with all of the trailer hitches for your model.

Then for a bike rack I have 2 different recommendations depending on what you're needing.

If you have standard bikes then I recommend going with the Thule Apex Swing XT # TH9027XT because it has a swinging arm that allows you to gain unrestricted access to your rear hatch area without removing your bikes or bike rack. Please note you may need the Adapter Bar # TH982XT if you have an alternative or step-through frame.

For bikes that are a little more high-end that you don't want frame contact with the Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Bike Platform Rack # TH83JV with 2-bike add-on # TH9036XT is my recommendation. This secures bikes by their wheels and the best part about it is the handle at the end which makes tilting and folding the bike rack way easier than a lot of other options on the market.

These bikes racks do have more features to them that are worth checking out so I've attached review videos for each that you can reference.