Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendations for a 2012 Volkswagen GTI

Question:

I am looking for a hitch and bike carrying solution for my 2012 GTI. I would use the rack on my GTI and Nissan Leaf, so am trying to find one I can share AND pick the proper hitch receiver/tongue weight loading.

asked by: Todd

Helpful Expert Reply:

To start, let's look at trailer hitches. There is one hitch available for the 2012 Volkswagen GTI. I recommend the Curt hitch # C11000. This is a class I hitch with a 1-1/4" receiver opening. It also requires the use of a stabilizer strap # 18050 when used with a bike rake or a cargo carrier. For your leaf, I would need to know the year to recommend a hitch.

I have included a link to the installation instructions for you. Class I trailer hitches like all of those that fit your GTI, can only carry a maximum of 2 bikes. The reason is that the addition of a third or more bikes moves the weight too far from the receiver and produces too much stress, like using a cheater bar to loosen a lug nut.

For a bike rack I recommend the Swagman Titan, # S63400, which is compatible with the Class I trailer hitch. It also features anti-sway cradles, the ability to tilt/fold, and it comes with an integrated cable lock. The rise in the shank will also provide better ground clearance.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame tube that goes straight across (like a typical mens bike does) I recommend using adapter bar # 64005. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level. I use adapters similar to this and without them my wifes bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my sons bike at all. I have included a video link showing how the adapter works.

To carry 2 additional bikes you would need to add a roof rack. I have included a link to the roof rack main page for you to view. You will need to select 3-door or 5-door from the drop down menu to view the options. The compatible bike racks will be listed on the right side of the page of the any roof rack you click on.

Another option if you do not want to install a hitch would be to use a trunk mount bike rack on the GTI and Leaf. If you have a 2011 - 2024 Nissan Leaf then I recommend the Yakima HangOut, # Y02637. This rack fits both vehicles, holds 2 bikes, and you can use adapter bar # Y02531 or the # 64005 adapter bar listed above with this rack. I have linked some videos and some instructions for you to view.

You would still need a roof rack for the additional bikes when using a trunk mount.