Hitch & Platform Bike Rack Recommendations For 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Question:
We recently bought a 2021 CRV Hybrid, and Im considering getting a 2inch Class 2 hitch added to it for a 4-bike rack. Honda states in the manual that towing isnt permitted and may void the warranty, but all were interested in is the rack. I considered a roof/trunk combo assuming the 4 bikes wouldnt all fit on the roof, but for the convenience Id really rather do a hitch. From what I understand, simply adding a hitch alone shouldnt void the warranty - meaning if I took it to a dealer, they wouldnt just look at the hitch and say the warranty was shot, correct? There would need to be actual damage to the power train, but a bike rack shouldnt appreciably affect that, correct? Though I get that if there ever WERE damage to it from something else they would no doubt try to blame towing after seeing the hitch. So, assuming the hitch wouldnt void the warranty, then for the rack: 1. Id prefer something below $750. The hitch is $250 at Uhaul including installation, and Id rather not go much over $1000 altogether. 2. Id like to go with a platform style if possible. Ive used trunk mounted hanging racks in the past, and Ive always found them very frustrating to use. 3. Id like something relatively light. Weve got 2 adult Schwinn hybrid types which are around 35-40lbs and 2 kids bikes around 20lbs. Ive seen some platform racks weighing in at almost 100lbs, and when fully loaded that seems like it would be a lot of weight. I realize tongue weight isnt the same as towing, and the rack and bikes I want to use wont appreciably affect the power train, but I dont want to give Honda any reason to question the hitch installation when its not supposed to be there in the first place. A 100lbs rack isnt a deal-breaker, if the torque from bouncy roads isnt going to damage the car in any way that Honda could try to use against me. Can you give a recommendation? Im considering: Hollywood Racks Destination Swagman XTC4 Swagman Quad 2+2 Yakima FourTimer Saris Freedom Yakima HoldUp
asked by: KC
Helpful Expert Reply:
I understand your concerns but installation of a hitch to carry accessories is not something to void a warranty. I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver, # e98848. This is a custom fit Class III, with a 2"x2" receiver opening that is rated at a full 525 lbs. tongue weight and protected with a matte black finish for added durability. This is a bolt-on installation, no welding required, and the complete hardware kit and installation instructions are included. Install time is estimated to be only an hour with no drilling required. We do have a product review and installation video created, I've attached the link for you.
For the bike rack recommendation, based on your stated requirements I suggest the Hollywood Racks Destination Bike Rack, # HR4000. This is an an inexpensive, yet high-quality rack that is lightweight and easy-to-use. It is the platform type that you stated is preferred, fits up to four bikes at 35 lbs per bike and is itself only about 45 lbs. The curved wheel trays with adjustable wheel straps let you carry bikes with different wheelbases so that will be helpful in carrying both adult and child size bikes.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hollywood Racks Destination Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Frame Mount
- Hitch Lock
- 4 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Hollywood Racks
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Hollywood Racks Destination Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Shop: Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Shop: Gen-Y Anti-Rattle Clamp for 2" Hitch Receivers
- Shop: Swagman XTC4 Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Shop: etrailer Hitch Pin Alignment Collar for Hitch Accessories - 2" Hitches
- Shop: Hollywood Racks Destination Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Shop: Blue Ox Hitch Receiver Immobilizer II - 2" Hitches
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Video: Hollywood Racks Destination 4 Bike Platform Rack Review - 2022 Toyota RAV4
- Video: Hollywood Racks Destination 4 Bike Platform Rack Installation - 2021 Chrysler Pacifica
- Q&A: Hollywood Bike Rack and Draw-Tite Hitch Receiver for 2018 Mazda CX-5
- Q&A: How To Choose The Correct 4-Bike Bike Rack For A 2020 Subaru Outback Wagon
- Q&A: 4 Bike Rack That Can Tilt To Allow Full Trunk Access On 2015 GMC Yukon
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver for a 2018 Honda CR-V
- Search Results: hitch
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Video: Tow Ready 4-Pole Mounting Bracket Installation
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Search Results: 25580
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Class 1 and Class 2 Hitches for the Scion XB
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: etrailer Hitch Pin Alignment Collar Review
on Trailer Hitch
