Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2014 Audi Q5

Question:

Just wondering about the fit of the HRF2 on my 2014 Audi Q5? And, if going with a trailer hitch, which one would you recommend and how visible is the recommended hitch, not so much the receiver part but do the arms of the hitch stick out a lot, altering the appearance of the back of the car? Thanks for your input.

asked by: Barb R

Expert Reply:

The Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top Bike Rack part # HRF2 that you referenced is a fit for your 2014 Audi Q5 and would work well for you. I attached a review video.

However, a hitch mounted bike rack is preferred for a few reasons. The rack doesn't contact the vehicle, has more capacity usually, and allows for more flexibility for future towing accessories like cargo carriers or towing a trailer. If you are even considering a hitch I would recommend you do go this route.

The hitch will be mostly out of plain sight, but the cross tube and hitch opening would be visible. Check out the picture I attached to see how visible it would be from the rear of the vehicle.

For a hitch I would recommend the Hidden Hitch part # 87603. This is a Class III hitch that would work great with a hitch mounted bike rack.

The most popular bike rack with other owners of 2014 Audi Q5 is the Thule Apex part # TH9025. This rack is one of the nicest on the market because of its many great features like anti-sway cradles, locking anti-rattle hitch pin, road dampening frame cradles, and tilting mast and arms. Check out the review video I attached.

If you plan on carrying any womens or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Thule Bike Adapter Bar # TH982XT to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.

expert reply by: Jameson C