Trailer Hitch-Mounted Kayak and Bike Carrier for Use on 2014 Kia Optima

Question:

i have a 2014 kia optima is there a trailer mount for bikes and kayaks? is it safe to mount a kayak to a trailer hitch or is there a kayak/bike dual mount?

asked by: Jersey J

Expert Reply:

We do offer several brands of light-duty 1-1/4-inch Class I trailer hitches for your 2014 Kia Optima and all can be seen on the link at right, including the Draw-Tite # 24965. This is the hitch I suggest since it does not require use of a stabilizing strap as some others do.

A class I hitch has a tongue weight (downward force) limit of 200-lbs and this translates to it being suitable for use only with 2-bike Class I hitch-mount bike racks. The 2-bike limit applies even if you have a compatible 1-1/4-inch carrier that holds more bikes. The linked article on hitch classes will explain in detail. You can use one of the Class I bike racks shown on the included link; the accompanying article explains how to choose one that suits your vehicle and bikes.

You may want to consider an adapter bar if your bike frame do not have the horizontal top fame tube found on a typical man's bike. We offer the Thule # TH982XT that will keep such bikes level on the carrier.

We do not offer any combination carriers for bike and kayaks so your kayak transportation will be best served by using the Optima's roof. You have many options for kayak carriers. We offer roof rack-mount types and also the very cost-effective and lightweight foam block type of kayak carrier that do not require you to have a roof rack on your vehicle. This type may be a better option if your kayaks approach the Optima's roof weight-bearing limit (which should be in your owner's manual or available from a local dealership).

The link provided will let you see all available foam block kayak carriers that will fit on your Optima's roof, such as the Rightline Gear # RL100K10.