Hitch Adapter And Bike Carrier For 4 Bikes That Allows Towing On 2007 Toyota Highlander

Question:

Im looking for a bike rack for a Toyota Highlander. Id like one with a 2foot hitch mount that carries 4 bikes, and I see you have a good selection of those. What I cant seem to figure out is whether you can also pull a trailer while using any of those racks? Thanks!

asked by: Melyssa R

Expert Reply:

We do have an adapter that may do exactly what you want. It is the Malone Dual Hitch Extender, part # MPG544. This installs on your 2 inch receiver on your 2007 Toyota Highlander, and gives you two 2 inch receivers, one for towing and one for an accessory like a bike carrier as you mentioned.

We also offer the Curt Multipurpose Ball Mount, part # D210, that may work for you. This allows you to attach a bike rack or other receiver mounted item and also tow with the ball mount on the adapter as well. I have attached a product review video for this adapter that shows how it can be used.

Still another item you may be interested in is the Swagman Original 4 Bike Carrier, part # S64675. This attaches to your 2 inch receiver on the back of your Highlander and has a ball mount built in for you to be able to tow a trailer with. Please keep in mind with this carrier the towing capacity is 3,500 lbs and it has a tongue weight capacity for a trailer of 350 lbs. I have also attached a product review video for this carrier you can check out.

If you decide on either of the first two hitch adapter I mentioned, the bike carrier I recommend is the Thule Apex 5 Bike Carrier, part # TH9026XT. With a 5-bike carrier you get a little more room on the arms when carrying bikes and this helps prevent crowding when trying to fit 4 bikes on the carrier at one time. I have a product review video for this carrier attached you can take a look at.

If you are carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes, I recommend an adapter bar like part # 64005. This adapter attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carrier evenly in the carrier and provide more ground clearance. I have also attached a product review video for this adapter bar.

Please keep in mind that the weight of the carrier added to the weight of the bikes is used when calculating tongue weight.