Do You Recommend a Class II or a Class III Hitch for a Bike Rack on My 2018 Acura RDX?

Question:

I need to install a hitch for a 2-bike tray style bike rack. Is a Class 3 hitch Draw-Tire overkill or does a Class 2 hitch Curt sacrifice some strength and stability on the highway? I will only be using the hitch for a bike rack. I am trying to minimize the appearance but that is a minor concern.

asked by: Doug D

Helpful Expert Reply:

As far as installing the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # 75784 on your 2018 Acura RDX, it is not overkill for the purposes of of transporting a 2-bike platform rack. Also, since the # 75784 involves a concealed crosstube design exactly like the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4" # C12083, you won't have any bulky eyesores associated with an exposed crosstube. Also, the 2-inch receiver opening has the benefit of being compatible with many more hitch-mounted accessories (if you choose to purchase any in the future).

With that being said, if you choose to go with the Class II 1-1/4" # C12083, you will be perfectly fine if you have a compatible bike rack.

For a great 2-bike platform rack option, I recommend either the Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # SA4412B or the fat-bike version for 2.25" - 5" wide tires # SA4412B-FB. Both of these models work perfectly with either hitch you choose. The Freedom accommodates bikes up to a 48" wheelbase and comes with a 60 lbs per bike capacity. Another advantage of this rack is that since the cradles adjust independently along the central mast, you do not need to worry about a bike frame adapter if you wish to transport women's bikes, step-thru bikes, or children's bikes. For theft-deterrence measures, I recommend purchasing the Hitch Tite Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock # SA3022 along with the etrailer Cable Lock # e98891.