Hitch-Mount 2-Bike Carrier Recommendation for a 2006 Lexus RX400H Hybrid

Question:

What hitch bike rack would you recommend for a 2006 Lexus RX400h? Have 2 bikes

asked by: Shannon

Expert Reply:

All of the trailer hitch receivers we offer for your 2006 Lexus RX400 Hybrid have a 2-inch receiver opening. For this hitch size we offer a variety of hitch-mount 2-bike carriers in both the hanging and platform types. Hanging racks support the bikes by their frames; platform racks primarily support the bikes at their wheels. Within these two general types there are available options for carriers that are fixed, and carriers that tilt away for better vehicle access

The link provided will take you to our main department page for 2-bike carriers that will fit a 2-inch hitch receiver. You can use the filters at the left-hand side of the page to return results that are in line with your preferences. Note that some racks include locks for the carrier, for the bikes, or both.

If you choose a hanging carrier and you will be transporting bikes for women or children, or bikes having an alternative frame design (without a main horizontal top frame tube) you may want to consider an adapter bar such as the Yakima Tube Top, part # Y02531, which makes it easy to attach such bikes to the carrier by providing that needed horizontal surface.

In the platform category Thule offers their sturdy steel Doubletrack Pro XT, part # TH92BJ, which includes locks for both carrier and bikes, and which is a good choice if your biking travels will take you and your RX400H over rough terrain. Please refer to the linked video. Kuat offers their excellent Sherpa aluminum carrier, part # SH22B, which offers an 80-lb capacity, fits wheels from 20-29 inches diameter and tires as wide as 3-inches, and which includes locks for the bikes and carrier.

I have linked an article that covers many of the considerations for choosing a hitch-mount bike carrier and this may help you as you evaluate all of the alternatives. Depending on the nature of your bikes you may need a carrier that provides maximum clearance between the hitch pin hole and the carrier mast. Beach cruiser type bikes, for example, may benefit from such additional space. A second linked article includes a table that provides this clearance dimension for all offered carriers; the portion on the left hand side of the page covers carrier options for your 2-inch hitch.