Hitch Mount Bike Rack Recomendations for a Class I Trailer Hitch on a 2011 CRZ

Question:

Hi there, I have bought a 2011 CRZ which already came with a hitch. I need to buy a bike rack now. how can i find out what size hitch is mine already..

asked by: Shawn

Expert Reply:

You should have a Class I trailer hitch on your 2011 Honda CRZ because the only hitches available for your vehicle are Class I, 1-1/4 inches, however, stranger things have happened so by measuring the receiver opening you will be sure.

Class I hitches have a 2 bike limit and up to a 200 lb tongue weight capacity for any hitch mounted accessory. The tongue weight capacity is the maximum amount of weight that can be carried on a hitch. This figure should be available either in your owners manual or with the dealer.

The other measurement required to verify which bike rack will fit on your vehicle is from the center of the hitch pin hole to the outer most part of your bumper. From my research, it looks as if the receiver opening and the bumper are pretty even.

For a bike rack you can go two ways, either platform or hanging. For a platform rack, I recommend the Thule Doubletrack Pro XT # TH92BJ. This is one of our most popular among Honda owners. This bike rack can hold virtually any bike with weight capacities up to 37-1/2 lbs for each bike. If the hitch pin hole to furthest edge of the rear bumper distance is less than 5 inches, this rack will be perfect for your needs.

The Doubletrack comes with a lock that secures your rack to your hitch and also a lock that secures your bikes to the rack. The keys for these locks are keyed alike which makes it easy.

For a hanging rack I recommend the Thule Camber # TH9058. This bike rack will hold two bikes with a total weight capacity up to 75 lbs. The distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest part of the bike rack is 5-3/4 inches.

The arms on this bike rack arch to give your bikes more ground clearance and also puts a bit more space between the bikes. If you plan on carrying either womens, childrens, or alternative frame bikes I recommend using the Thule Adapter Bar # TH982XT. Using this bar will ensure the bike will be carried level.

To secure your Camber to your vehicle, I recommend the Thule Snug Tite Lock # THSTL2. This lock secures your Vertex 2 to your vehicle. For a cable I recommend the Tow Ready Cable Lock # TR63255. This set contains a vinyl coated cable that is 4 foot long and padlock.

I have attached 3 brief installation videos of the Doubletrack, Camber, and Adapter Bar on a similar vehicle. I have also attached a help article that talks about the distances that different bikes racks need to clear a bumper.