Parts Needed to Carry 4 Bikes on 2011 Ford Escape

Question:

Hi, Thank you for your help! I would ideally like to purchase a bike rack for 4 bikes. We have a 2011 Ford Escape. It looks like all the racks that get good reviews are hitchesinch I do not understand if I have to purchase something other then the rack itself in order to attach it to my car. Does my car come with a hitch? Is this the same hitch used for a boat? Do I need to get a hitch installed by a mechanic? Can I switch from bike hitch to boat hitch easily? Sorry Im so clueless! A basic definition of the parts and what is included on my car already and what else would be required parts and labor would be great! Thank you,

asked by: Sevanne

Helpful Expert Reply:

The first thing you will need to determine is if your Escape is equipped with a hitch. I have attached a photo of a Ford Escape with a trailer hitch attached. I have also attached a help article which will explain what components are required when you wish to install a hitch / bike rack system.

If you do not have a hitch installed on your Escape, I would recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver, part # S63380. This is a Class lll hitch and will allow you to tow a trailer or carry a bike or cargo carrier. It bolts on so the installation is easy and comes complete with the hardware needed. This hitch has a tongue weight capacity of 525 lbs, which would include any rack you install, combined with the total weight of the bikes or cargo. I have linked you to the installation video for this hitch.

If you wish to have it installed, most automotive service facilities can install the hitch for you. With a hitch installed, switching from a hitch mounted bike rack to towing a trailer is not difficult. It requires installing the ball mount in the hitch receiver, giving you the ability to attach a trailer for towing.

I would recommend a hitch mounted bike rack like Swagman Trailhead 4 Bike Carrier, part # S63380. This rack holds 4 bikes and has a tilting feature which will allow you access to the rear cargo area of your Escape. It also has anti-sway cradles which secure the bikes and prevent them from being damaged. This rack weighs approximately 31 lbs, and has a weight capacity of 100 lbs.

If you are planning on carrying bikes that have alternative frames or womens bikes, I would recommend a bar adapter like Swagman Easy-Out Women's and Alternative Frame Bike Adapter, part # 64005. This bar attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem, which will provide a more level transport. I have linked you to a product review video for this adapter bar.

If you plan on towing a boat or cargo trailer, I would also recommend the etrailer Ball Mounts for the Ford Escape, part # 989900. This kit includes everything for the hitch, which will allow you to tow multiple trailers. It includes (1) Ball mount with 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop, (1) Ball mount with 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop, (1) 1-7/8 inch x 1 inch x 2-1/8 inch trailer hitch ball, (1) 2 inch x 1 inch x 2-1/8 inch trailer hitch ball, (1) Pin and clip, and (1) etrailer.com ball mount bag.

If you plan on towing a trailer, and you have backup warning sensors installed, I would recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness, part # 118251, for your vehicle. This installs easily on your existing wiring. I have linked you to an installation video for this wiring harness.

If you do have the backup warning sensors installed, I recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector, part # 118551.

Please keep in mind the wiring harness is needed only if you do not have a wiring harness already installed on your Ford Escape.