Tow hitch for a bike rack
 

I'm about to purchase the 2004 RX330 (already got the RX300) but can't get my question answered by a few dealers.

I want to install a bicycle rack but not the roof mounted option Lexus offers. I want to install one that assembles onto a hitch. While I know the installation of a tow hitch is an option($995???), I need to know that if the purpose is tow bicycles exclusively and not a boat, would the tow hitch be different and/or cheaper since it's not being made to carry 3,500 lbs.?

Re: Tow hitch for a bike rack
 

If you install a tow hitch, it will be for towing. The bike carrier will fit in the stardard hitch receiver (usually 2", but I have seen 1" ones). I don't know of any option that is just a rear bike carrier except for the cheap door mounted ones (not worth it, I've tried them in another car).

$995 seems high for installing a tow hitch (even if it includes additional cooling). The Lexus web site has the tow package listed as $160. It sounds like you don't want/need to be able to tow the full 3500 lbs. If that's the case, see if they can just install the hitch without the cooling options.

John

To pull 3500 lbs you need the hitch, wiring and tranmission cooler. The tounge weight, which is substatially less than 3500 lbs (for you it will be the wight of the rack and bikes) , go with an after marcket solution (hidden hitch or uHaul), Unless Dealer gives it for less than $200.

Salim