hdoerr

I am interested in transporting two to three bikes with my 2006 Rx400h. What are my options? I'd be willing to get a hitch installed.

But I would like some feedback from those who have some experience with this.

Thanks a bunch!

smassey321

I have used both Yakima and Thule 4 bike racks in our hitch. It works out great. The 400 has really stiff springs in back to support the weight of the battery so there is little to no sag. The hitch pokes out a bit so the hatch will clear the bike rack when you open it.

jooksing82

I ordered a curt hitch on amazon for a little over $100 , bolted it on myself. Check here https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hyb...er-wiring.html

I got a off brand 4 bike mount from Menards for $50 on sale.

If you do not want to go through all the hassle..

The easiest way to transport two bikes is to fold down your seats and stuff them in put some cardboard to protect your interior . .. else get something like this. .

They strap to your back with hooks. Just be careful not to scratch up your 400h during setup.

zackphan

I found that the Toyota highlander had the same hitch as the Rx400h. i purchased from my local Toyota dealership for half of what lexus charged for the equivalent lexus counterpart.

This was 5 years back and I dont know if any dealerships would still carry it. Call first or find it online.


I have installed curt hitches on our other cars but find the curt option for the RX400 somewhat tacky looking. I like the look of the OEM hitch better for this car. I find the aftermarket curt hitches have less than attractive design going around the tail pipe.

DennisMik

I have an Allen bike rack that I use on my wife's IS. The one thing that is a problem is the so called clamps that hold the bicycle. They are a strap that have a tendency to come undone as you drive down the road. I have learned to use a bungi cord and wrap it around the bike and the bike rack bar.

FWIW, the allen bike rack in the link posted by jooksing82 in post # 3 won't work on a RX. It is designed for a traditional passenger car with a trunk like my wife's IS. Allen has several models that will work with the RX models, but they all use a trailer hitch mount.

roadbike56

I have a Saris Bones rack and a Rhode Gear rack. Both of these use straps to attach to the vehicle. We use either of them on our 05 Highlander and it looks like we used them. Scratches and scrapes all over the back of the Highlander especially where the racks attach to the rear gate. No way will I try to attach either rack to our lovely Lexus RX. When the Highlander is replaced later this year or early next year, we'll install a hitch and buy a rack that attaches without touching the bodywork.
As for hanging onto the bike, the Saris Bones is a very good rack. It has anti sway straps and attaches very securely. If you've got an old beater, go for a Bones. If you're driving a pristine Lexus, get a hitch.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

A hitch is definitely a must! I have a 1UP brand bike rack for my 3RX and it's a beauty. It's expensive but relatively light (alum, won't rust), made in the USA, and probably the sturdiest rack I've seen. My bikes' frames are carbon fiber so this was my only option. The rack can swing so you can still open up the hatch.

Nickk6

1UP is the best, all my friends with have switched over from Yakima and Thule. I have the single unit with an add on for 2 bikes and I can still open the trunk without hitting the bike rack.

McCoysMom

I also found the aftermarket hitch to be an eyesore... I didn't realize the OEM hitch looks different. I have to buy one for my 2006 rx400h

McCoysMom

the used Yakima hold up is a 2015 I am looking to put on my 2006 rx400h. if the 1UP allows the lift gate to open the Yakima holdup should be able to allow that also? right?