What is the Best Bike Rack for a Rad Rover Step Thru and a Rad Runner Plus E-Bike on My 2009 RAV4?

Question:

I am looking for the best hitch rack to attach to our 2009 Toyota Rav4 to carry our Rad Rover Step Thru bike and Rad Runner Plus bike. My preference is a rack that is compact for storage and that has a ramp to load the bikes. I thought I had found the one with the Thule EasyFold XT, but it looks like the Rad Runner Plus is too heavy even with the battery removed. I am hoping to avoid the the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider recommended by Rad Bikes, because it requires an adapter to attach to the step thru frame. It looks like the Hollywood Racks RV Rider would work, but we never plan to use it on an RV, so it seems strange that this model would be the best option. Also it does not have a ramp and I am not sure about storage. Please let me know if you have a recommendation. Thank you!

asked by: Adam

Expert Reply:

I have a bike rack solution for you. If your Rad Rover and Rad Runner Plus is too heavy to mount on the 65-pound per-bike maximum weight capacity of the Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches # TH903202, we unfortunately do not have any other options that have ramps that provide you with any substantial increase of weight capacity.

If that doesn't work, the best option is to go with the RV Rider # HLY64FR. Even though the RV Rider does have the strength to mount on RVs, we have had countless neighbors that have used the RV Rider on their vehicles. This is because the RV Rider has an impressive 80-pound maximum per-bike weight capacity and, like you mentioned, does not require a bike frame adapter bar when using step-thru bike frames. You also don't need any larger straps or fat-tire cradle upgrades that would be required if you use your bikes with the EasyFold XT or the OnRamp. As far as storage, the mast and the platform folds into a compact size. I went ahead and attached a video of us installing the RV Rider on a 2021 Toyota Highlander to give you perspective.

If you need a compatible hitch receiver, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13149. Not only does this hitch provide you with 525 pounds of max tongue weight capacity and 3,500 pounds of maximum gross towing weight capacity, it also has a gloss outer coating over the base powder coat that provides ultimate protection against rust and corrosion.

expert reply by: Bob C