Best Bike Rack for 3 Bikes on a 2017 Honda CR-V with a Curt Class III Hitch

Question:

Hello! I am purchasing this hitch for my 2017 Honda CRV. I do not have the hands free lift gate, mine engages by pushing a button. Do you have recommendations for a compatible bike rack? I’d prefer something that is fairly easy to take on and off. It would need to hold 3 bikes. Thank you!

asked by: Kelley

Expert Reply:

With the Curt Custom Hitch, part # C13397, installed on your 2017 Honda CR-V, you have a few options for bike racks that can accommodate 3 bikes.

I recommend the Saris Freedom 4 Bike Platform Rack, part # SA4414B. The cushioned straps can hold your bikes by their crossbars or their downtubes, giving you more flexibility for places to mount them. It also has the ability to fold up when not in use, making it much easier to back into spaces.

That fold-up features does assist with taking the rack on and off of the hitch, too. With it in its folded position, it will be much easier to handle and move in and out of the receiver. The only other step would be to tighten down (or loosen up) the anti-rattle hitch pin. Plus, at 53 pounds, it's fairly light for a 4-bike platform rack.

One of the better features of this rack, though, is its tilt-away function. Many other racks have this feature, but the Freedom 4 has a rising shank that not only gives additional ground clearance when upright, but also allows for the the tilt to go further down. This will give you even more space to access your hatch while bikes or on the rack. I've linked to a video review of this rack on a 2014 Honda CR-V.

expert reply by: Kef G