Trailer Hitch for a 2014 Toyota Highlander

Question:

I am planning to carry 4 bikes. 3 of them adult bikes. The 4th is currently a big kid bike (20 inch wheel) but will soon be upgraded to adult. I am very impressed with the service your team is providing to the user community. Thank you!

asked by: Paul

Expert Reply:

Since you mention eventually using your hitch to tow, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e98844 because it can be used with a weight distribution system when towing.

I have attached a link to the installation instructions if you plan on installing the hitch yourself.

If you think you will be using the hitch to tow a trailer, then I also recommend picking up the Tow Ready T-One Wiring Harness, # 118449, and our etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit, # 989900. If you are interested in a bike rack recommendation, let me know how many bikes you plan on carrying and I would be happy to give you some options.

expert reply by: John H

Paul

6/10/2014

John H.

6/10/2014

Thank you for responding Yuk, we work hard to make sure we not only get you what you need, but inform you at the same time. We have quite a few 4-bike carriers for you to choose from. I have attached a link to all of our 4-bike carriers for you. Two bike carriers that may interest you are the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR and the Yakima RidgeBack # Y02458. These are two of the top bike carriers among our Toyota Highlander customers and both would be an excellent choice. My recommendation between these two carriers is the Hitching Post Pro. It's a little more versatile than the RidgeBack because there's a little more clearance from the rear bumper between the hitch pin hole and the rack. This makes it sit a little further from your Highlander to avoid making contact. Also, the arms are a little closer together which helps the chance that your 20 inch bike will fit without an adapter bar. The Hitching Post Pro also works on Class I hitch receivers along with the Class II and Class III. The RidgeBack doesn't fit Class I. This doesn't really matter for the Class III on your Highlander but it could make a difference if you get a new vehicle in the future or ever need to carry the bikes on another car. If you plan on carrying any womens, childrens or alternative frame bikes, I also recommend picking up the Thule Bike Adapter Bar, # TH982XT. Bikes with small or angled frames can be difficult to load on a bike rack and cause ground clearance problems. This adapter will allow you to load the bikes easily and safely. I have attached video reviews of both Thule bike carriers and the adapter bar for you to check out.