Hitch And Bike Carrier Recommendation For 2013 Honda Accord

Question:

I am going to buy a Curt C11681 receiver hitch for a 2013 Honda Accord 4 door, which 2-bike racks do you recommend? I will be carrying two mountain bikes, which are not heavy but are not like lightweight road bikes. Thanks,

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

Since the cost is so close, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch, part # C11496, for your 2013 Honda Accord. This hitch is a Class l hitch like the Curt hitch, part # C11681 but it will work better. Both hitches have the same weight capacity and both have 1-1/4 inch receiver openings.

You will want to take a measurement to make sure you have enough clearance at the rear of your Accord for a bike rack. You can use a tape measure and a straight edge like a yardstick or a dowel. Hold the straight edge vertically against the rear of your bumper, making sure it extends below the hitch opening. Then measure from the center of the hitch pin hole to the straight edge. This is the minimal distance you need for clearance when installing any accessory in your hitch. I have attached a helpful article that explains how to take the measurement and also has a chart that gives the clearance distance for many of the bike carriers we offer.

If you are interested in a platform-style carrier I recommend the Swagman XTC-2 Bike Rack, part # S64670. This carrier is easy to load and unload, and has hooks that secure the bikes to the rack. The distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest edge of the first wheel hoop measures 8 inches. I have attached a video that shows this rack being installed on a Honda Accord.

If you are interested in a hanging carrier for your Accord, I recommend the Thule Camber, part # TH9058. This rack has a tilting feature when unloaded, that allows you access to the rear of your vehicle. The distance from center of hitch pin hole to closest edge of pivot assembly is 5-3/4 inches. I have attached a product review video for this carrier you can check out.

If you plan on carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes, I recommend using an adapter bar like part # 64005. This attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bikes to be carried more level while providing additional ground clearance. I have also attached a product review video for the adapter bar.