wildeklave

Has anyone found a bike rack for the NX that doesn't require a hitch. Thule, Allen, and Schwinn seem to be the leading brands but most of their hatch racks don't work on CUV vehicles with a spoiler. I found a Thule rack that works with the RAV 4, RX, Nissan Rogue, and Subaru XV that all have spoilers but not sure if it fits with the NX.

philwojo

Why don't you want one to go with a hitch?

The Curt 13149 hitch can be had for about $140 on amazon and take 4 bolts to install and about 10 minutes of time, no modifications of any kind. It doesn't have wiring, and can be easily removed when not in use if you want.


I think it is a much better option than strapping something to the back window.

Phil

wildeklave

Many of the aftermarket hitches don't always look right when installed. The typically are too low. Also, I thought with the NX they need to work with the exhaust to properly install a hitch.

In the pic below on an RX it seems to stick out below the bumper::


hidden hitch:

philwojo

I understand what you are saying, but for me, for about $600-700 for the Lexus "hidden" hitch, and that isn't even installed, compared to the lower sitting Curt 13149 for $140, with a 10 minute install process, I was fine with saving almost $600 of my money for it to sit lower.

There is a thread on here showing the install and some pictures of the Curt hitch on a 300h as well.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/nx-...the-nx300.html

The Curt goes up under the current exhaust on the 300h at least, not sure on the 200t or F-sport to be honest. So keep that in mind as well. Read that topic above and see what you can find.

You have to make the decision for yourself, was just offering it up as an option.

Phil

SweetSally

You could always go with a clamp on bike rack. I know Curt and Swagman make a few options. Although, since you can't purchase from them directly, Hitchweb sells them:
Trunk Mounted and Clamp on Bike Racks

wildeklave

I may do some additional research into this trunk mounted rack.

http://hollywoodracks.com/trunk-rack...trunk-rack.htm

It is designed for SUVs with spoilers including the RX. It probably hasn't been tested on the NX yet since there are so few on the road.

philwojo

Personally I would say for $250+ that I would get the Curt Receiver off amazon for $140 and then a good 2" receiver bike rack for about $150-200, for a total just over $300 or so and keep things off the back of my car. Just my opinion and throwing it out there. I know it might not be what you want, just giving you another option.

Phil

philwojo

Here is a Thule 4-bike rack from REI, for $200:

http://www.rei.com/product/737561/th...ike-hitch-rack

Here is one from Amazon with a ton of great reviews and it is only $115:


Not only does it keep it off the back of your new NX, it also still allows you to get in to the rear hatch if necessary without removing the bike by folding down.

And here is the Curt from amazon that I used:

So, for less than, or about the same as the rack you showed you could get both of these.

Phil

PGH

I lease my NX200t and called Lexus Cust Serv and my dealership to see what constraints I'd have. You need to have a Lexus dealer install the hitch - which costs a "mere" $900..! The U-haul installs them for under $200 but you can't have that if you lease. Sooo, guess I'll be trying to put my bike in the back with the seats down and front bike tire off. Ugh. Yuck. What a pain.

Mr645

I have installed hitches on almost every lease I have had. 2008 Volvo, 2013 Mercedes.. I have never had any issues when turning in a car. I have towed both bicycles and a flat, open trailer with a motorcycle on it.
You could also always remove the hitch, probably just 4 bolts.

PGH

Thanks, Mr645, your info about putting a hitch on your leased vehicles was very good to know. I did have a hard time believing what I was told. There had to be others out there who had hitches on their leases that weren't put on by Lexus at $900. I guess the dealership and customer service are required to say what they said and can't say it's okay to let U-haul put on on.

NXOwner

This one was very easy to install. It actually took less than an hour to install it.

My NX is not leased, but if it were, it would be easy to remove it, if necessary.

PGH

Hey, thanks a million for the info on the hitch AND the installation photos! You're awesome!!!! You made my day. I'm relieved to hear that it was easy to install. Thank goodness for this forum and all you wonderful people for your help.

typocl

easy to install - MUCH easier if you get a friend to help!

NXOwner

I'm glad to be of assistance. You are very welcome!