Bike Carrier Recommendation For 5 Bikes On 2006 Toyota Rav4

Question:

Need to fit 5 bikes to our 2006 Rav 4. Which bike rack would you recommend.

asked by: Gail P

Expert Reply:

The first thing that we need to do is find out what the tongue weight capacity is for your 2006 4 cylinder Toyota Rav4. From the articles I have read, it seems the towing capacity for your vehicle is 1500 lbs, which means the tongue weight capacity is around 150 lbs. Many times trailer hitches have a much higher weight capacity than the weight capacity for the vehicles they fit. If you are planning on using the carrier on the Rav4 only, I would suggest considering the weight capacity of your vehicle and what the weight of the bikes added to the weight of the bike carrier would add up to.

You will also want to make sure you clear the rear of your vehicle when you choose a hitch mounted carrier. With installations on Toyota Rav4, we have found that typically the distance needed is about 7 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole on the hitch if there is a rear mounted spare tire. I have linked you to a help article that shows how to measure the clearance needed when considering a hitch mounted carrier.

I would suggest using two modes of carrying bikes with your Rav4. You may want to use a hitch mounted bike carrier and a roof rack for carrying your 5 bikes.

I would recommend the Swagman Trailhead 3 Bike Carrier, part # S63365. This carrier holds 3 bikes and has a tilting feature which allows access to the rear cargo area of your Rav4. This carrier has a shank that measures 9-1/2 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the back of the upright bar.

When considering a roof mount carrier for your bikes, it would depend on the roof style you have on your Rav4.

If your Rav4 has crossbars installed, I recommend the Swagman Upright Roof Bike Carrier part # S64720. This bike rack clamps on to round, square, aero, elliptical, and most factory crossbars, and is designed for 1 bike. I have attached a product review video for you.

If there are no crossbars installed on your vehicle, I recommend the 2006 Toyota RAV4 Roof Rack by Rhino. This roof rack uses parts # RRVA126B-2, # RRRLKVA, and # DK043. The bike rack # SR4882RP, would be a fit for these crossbars.