Hitch and Hanging Bike Rack Recommendation for 2017 Mazda 3 Hatchback

Question:

I have a 2017 Mazda 3 GT Hatchback and need a hitch mounted bike rack. Looks like the Class I Draw Tite 1.25inch #24924 hitch is my only choice. I prefer Yakima bike racks and looking at hanging style racks. I have seem some expert answers that say Yakima racks wont work with this hitch because of the weld stop. Please advise on what Yakima racks work with this hitch or if it possible to use adapters on the hitch. Thanks.

asked by: Steven S

Expert Reply:

Yakima 1-1/4 inch bike racks will not fit Class I hitches and there's no way to make that happen but I do have a great solution for you. Before we get into that the part number you need is actually # 24914.

I realize that most people are either "team Yakima" or "team Thule", and that recommending a Thule rack might not go over well, but realistically Thule and Yakima are incredibly close in quality with the exception that Thule racks can be used on Class I hitches so they would be the best solution for you.

The most popular bike rack we carry that has been confirmed to fit this vehicle is the Thule Camber 2 part # TH9058. We asked our demo and install guys to name their favorite, most easy-to-use bike racks and this one showed up in nearly everyone's top three. Check out the review video I attached for more info.

If you plan on carrying any women's or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Kuat Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01 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