Bike Rack and Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2012 Mazda 3i Touring Hatchback

Question:

Hi, Do you think I would be able to safely attach and use the following to my 2012 Mazda 3 i Touring 5-door hatchback? In case it matters, this car has a spoiler that is part of the body frame. 1 a 1.25inch tow hitch A, and 2 a Thule TH9044 T2 bike rack, to put on the back. Thanks! A Your hitch recommendation seems to be the Draw-Tite Class I Trailer Hitch # 24843 - would that be true for this bike rack too?

asked by: Mara

Expert Reply:

You can install a trailer hitch with a 1-1/4 inch receiver on your 2012 Mazda 3i Touring Hatchback. The trailer hitch that I recommend for you would be the Draw-Tite Class I Trailer Hitch, # 24843. This hitch was designed for the hatchback models of the 2012 Mazda 3 and gives you the same weight capacities as the other hitch options at the most economical price. I have attached the installation instructions for you to check out.

For a bike rack, I also recommend the Thule T2 Bike Rack, # TH9045, for 1-1/4 inch trailer hitch receivers. The T2 Bike Rack, # TH9044, that you referenced will only fit trailer hitches with a 2 inch receiver and would not work with the trailer hitch options for your vehicle.

Another bike rack that I recommend is the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Bike Rack, # SH12G. This bike rack is slightly more expensive than the Thule T2 bike rack, but it weighs almost 20 lbs less than the T2.

expert reply by: John H