3-Bike Rack Recommendation for 2011 Toyota RAV4
Question:
I would like to be able to put 3 bikes on my Toyota RAV4 2011 what are the best options? Thank you
asked by: MIke
Expert Reply:
In order to transport three bikes on your 2011 Toyota RAV4 I suggest a hitch-mount type carrier rather than a spare-tire-mount type such as the Thule # TH963PRO. that you referenced.
Hitch mount racks will use the strongest part of the vehicle - its frame - to bear the weight of your carrier and loaded bikes, rather than the spare tire mount which is not really designed to carry too much more weight than that of the spare tire itself. If you still prefer a spare tire mount type I suggest # BT300 from Surco.
Your RAV4 can be equipped with either a 1-1/4-inch Class II or a 2-inch Class III hitch. If it already has a hitch you can measure its receiver size to know which size carrier to select. The good news is that there are many carriers designed to fit both sizes! If you need a hitch you can use the link provided to see all options; I suggest a 2-inch Class III unit like # C13149 from Curt for its higher weight capacity. Please see the linked hitch installation video.
The other link provided will let you see all hitch-mount 3-bike carriers that fit both hitch sizes. The linked article will show you how to take a simple measurement of your hitch and vehicle to determine what carriers will safely clear the back of the RAV4 and its spare tire.
Products Referenced in This Question
Surco Spare Tire 3-Bike Carrier
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Standard
- 3 Bikes
- Bike Lock
- Single Arm
- Standard
- Hanging Rack
- Surco Products
more information >
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 4000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 525 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Spare Me 2 Bike Rack - Spare Tire Mount - Folding Dual Arms
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Anti-Sway
- 2 Bikes
- Bike and Rack Lock
- Dual Arm
- Folding
- Hanging Rack
- Thule
more information >
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