steelgtr

Any recommendations for a bike rack that won't ding our 2001 2wd. We don't have a trailer hitch.

thx

bob

salimshah

I would suggest get a hitch installed. You will need the electronic module if you plan to tow anything, and for the bike rack you dont need one.

The only drawback is that you bikes may get the dust when you have them on the rack behind you.

Salim

steelgtr

Thanks,

Is that a dealer install or?

thx

bob

salimshah

Dealer option will be expensive and will come with electronic module. It is a piece of iron. Uhaul comes to mind ... you can surf the net but shipping may be expensive.

Salim

Nad1370

www.rockauto.com

Part#--13429--Curt manufacturing

Class 3 Hitch. 2" square. Had mine delivered in 2 days.
Came w/ intructions.
2min. job after taking the tow hooks out.

steelgtr

Thanks! I always thought a hitch was a factory only install.

Now, can you recommend a good rack (3 bikes) to go with that hitch?

thx

bob

Nad1370

I have an Allen
Model 542RR---4 rack

Sturdy as hell..!
Got it for $109 at ****'s.

Amazon has it for $119.99
http://www.amazon.com/Allen-Deluxe-4.../dp/B001PLG7UK

Great hitch for the money.
Great reviews.

carguy07

I have this one and love it. It is heavy though.

http://www.hollywoodracks.com/hitch-...tch-rack-4.htm

They make a 3 bike version too.

http://www.hollywoodracks.com/hitch-...tch-rack-3.htm

salimshah

Just in case ... the hitch changes the dynamics of force distribution in case of an accident. Low speed impacts with similar or smaller size vehicles may prevent some body damage, but high speed impacts will most definitely pass the energy to occupants.

Salim

steelgtr

Wow

That's good to know. Does the safety rating change then? Does a factory installed hitch affect impact too?

thx

bob

salimshah

The Lexus/Toyota option behaves the same way. The hitch is pure iron and welds and there is nothing that breaks away under impact. Purely Physics in action.

I self installed the factory hitch. I read the warning in the accompanying literature. It been years, but it said, to take the hitch off if you will not be using it for a long time ... <= needless to say, I have not bothered to un-install it.

Salim

bob2200

I'm not doubting the laws of physics, but I don't recall reading that warning with my factory-installed hitch. It has been 8 years though, so maybe I have just forgotten.

salimshah

Back then they were not factory installed options. Toyota would add them around Dubai before shipping them to USA. Dealers carried them as accessory and would add them if the buyer asked for it. I did a write up on on how to self install the hitch here in CL, with tricks to do it without any help.

Salim

Raoul

Agree, I have the Allen Model 532RR---3 rack.
The reviews mentioned some wobble issues but, I guess I use more bungies than most, good firm mount.
Very pleased with this brand at half the price of others.
Was $79 on sale.