Parts Needed to Install a Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack for a 2009 Dodge Caliber

Question:

I am interested in getting a hidden hitch for my 2009 dodge caliber. I want to install a bike rack. However the dodge site states it is a special design that requires a special ball hitch, an adapter and a tire retention strap. Yours doesnt state that. Can I buy a hidden hitch and bike rack with nothing else needed? Is there one that can hold the weight of 3 bikes? It looks easy to install, just need to know what all is needed? thank you

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

As long as your 2009 Dodge Caliber is not the SRT-4 model, then you will not need to purchase any parts other than a trailer hitch and a bike rack from us. The information you received from Dodge may be required to install the trailer hitch they offer, but it is not required for our trailer hitches.

For your 2009 Caliber, I recommend installing the Draw-Tite Class I Trailer Hitch, # 24769. This is basically the same as the Hidden Hitch Trailer Hitch, # 60832 (no longer available), because they are sister companies and the Draw-Tite hitch will save you some money. I have attached an installation video and installation instructions for this hitch for you to check out. At this time we do not have a hitch that will fit the SRT-4 models.

All of the trailer hitches available for your Caliber are Class I hitches which can only carry a maximum of 2 bikes. Due to the lower weight capacity of a Class I trailer hitch, adding a 3rd bike will put too much weight too far away from the hitch and it will act as a lever putting more stress on the trailer hitch and vehicle frame. It is similar to using a pipe extension on a wrench to break a rusty bolt.

For a hitch mount bike rack, I recommend looking at the Kuat Beta Aluminum 2 Bike Rack, # B202-114. This is a lightweight bike rack that offers many features such as an anti-rattle shank, folding arms and a tilting mast.

To carry your third bike, I recommend using a roof mount bike rack like the Swagman Roof Bike Rack, # S64720. A roof mount bike rack will require a roof rack with crossbars that run side to side. If your Caliber does not have a roof rack, Inno offers a roof rack which consists of parts # INB127, # INSUT, and # INK555.