Recommended Hitch And Platform-Style Bike Carrier For 2014 Mazda 3 Hatchback  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Many times car manufacturers recommend no towing due to the stress on the transmission and engine, but carrying a hitch mounted accessory is acceptable. You will want to check with your owner's manual or with you dealership to find the hitch tongue weight capacity for your 2014 Mazda 3 Hatchback.

Many times hitches have a tongue weight capacity higher than the vehicle tongue weight capacity so you want to make sure you do not exceed the lower rated component.

The hitch I recommend is the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, part # 24914. This is a Class l hitch and has a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening.

The Thule T2 Pro XTR Platform-Style 2 Bike Carrier, part # TH23JV, you referenced weighs about 51 lbs, and measures 5 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest part of the carrier when folded up. This may prove to be a bit closer than you want to be to the rear of your Mazda 3.

For a lighter option I recommend the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Aluminum Platform-Style 2 Bike Carrier, part # SH12G. This carrier weighs approximately 32 lbs and has the hitch lock, and cable included. The distance from the hitch pin hole to the carrier when folded up is 9 inches.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

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