RX - 4th Gen (2016-2022) Discussion topics related to the 2016 and up RX350 and RX450h models

Hitch Bike Rack

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Old 08-30-17, 03:24 PM
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milk659
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Default Hitch Bike Rack

Evening fellows,

Any recommendations for a bike rack to be mounted on the hitch of my new RX350? Better online such as REI or from a store. I know the dealer is not the best option here. I want something that allows me to open the trunk or at least have that option with bikes on. Also, something that would not put the bikes too close to my car. It's a caviar black RX and even a minor scratch will show up.

Yakima or Thule? which is better?

Thanks

Last edited by milk659; 08-30-17 at 03:28 PM.
Old 08-30-17, 03:30 PM
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FastFord
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This topic came up when someone wanted roof rails and I posted this as an alternative...hope this helps or gives you ideas...

https://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Bike-.../TH934XTR.html
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Old 08-30-17, 07:39 PM
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GSteg
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There are so many options on the market. How many bikes do you need to carry? Do you need one that holds by the wheels rather than the bike's top tube? 1-1/4" or 2" hitch? Budget?
Old 08-31-17, 03:59 AM
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Originally Posted by milk659
Evening fellows,

Any recommendations for a bike rack to be mounted on the hitch of my new RX350? Better online such as REI or from a store. I know the dealer is not the best option here. I want something that allows me to open the trunk or at least have that option with bikes on. Also, something that would not put the bikes too close to my car. It's a caviar black RX and even a minor scratch will show up.

Yakima or Thule? which is better?

Thanks
I've had good luck with this brand...............

Amazon Amazon
Old 08-31-17, 06:26 AM
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TeKKieNYC
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I'm also doing my research and so far the top brand and quality is https://www.1upusa.com/bicycleracks.html, then Kuat, Thule and the rest.

Good luck with your research and plz keep us updated on your decision.

For me the most important things about a hitch rack: stability, overall security, ease of mounting and of course the longevity of the product.
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Old 08-31-17, 08:09 AM
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GSteg
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Originally Posted by TeKKieNYC
I'm also doing my research and so far the top brand and quality is https://www.1upusa.com/bicycleracks.html, then Kuat, Thule and the rest.

For me the most important things about a hitch rack: stability, overall security, ease of mounting and of course the longevity of the product.
Then you'll love the 1UP rack. That's what I have and it's the only one I'll ever own, especially since my bikes have carbon fiber frames (do not carry CF frame by the top tube!). It's expensive, but it's a work of art. I started out with 2-bikes option, but will probably buy the add-on for a 3rd bike. I've seen lots of bike racks bounce around but the 1UP holds my bike no problem, even at highway speeds. Even with the bikes loaded, I have no issues tilting it down so I can open up the rear hatch. It's unlikely I would ever give up this rack for a regular steel rack unless I was carry ridiculously heavy bikes (multiple 50lb+)
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Old 09-01-17, 10:16 PM
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FYI, REI has 20% Yakima / Thule this weekend for Labor Day Sale!
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Old 09-04-17, 08:56 AM
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After revieing all my options; I decided to buy the following;

2" Hitch (this one had the best reviews, and can be added on withuot welding or cutting)
https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hit...leid=201743280

Bike Rack (I felt platform racks are better than suspension type racks, due to more stability)
https://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Bike-...e/TH990XT.html

Wiring Harness (Just in case I decide to tow a trailer one day)
https://www.etrailer.com/Custom-Fit-...leid=201743280

Ball Mount (Just in case situiation again)
https://www.etrailer.com/Ball-Mounts/Curt/C45036.html

Thanks every one for their time.
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Old 09-05-17, 11:55 AM
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Default Cost of tow hitch for bikes on RX450h f sport?

I am about ready to pull the trigger on the 2017 Lexus RX450h f sport. The configuration already includes the towing prep package. What should it cost me to have the dealer (parts and labor) install some type of hitch so that I can tow two bikes? We would not be towing an actual trailer ever. Thank you.
Old 09-05-17, 01:11 PM
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Probably twice what a trailer place will sell/install it for.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...bike-rack.html
Old 09-05-17, 01:17 PM
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OK. That helps a lot. Now if you can tell me what a trailer place will sell/install it for, than I can easily do the math. I am planning on doing a lease, would you still recommend that I add it on after the fact and separate from the dealership?
Old 09-05-17, 01:20 PM
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Let me call a few places for you. Best price is $189 installed.

After 56 vehicles I have never had a dealer install their products. I usually get a better product, more selection, at about half the cost of the dealer....especially Lexus.
Old 08-12-18, 09:50 AM
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BigBJ
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Default 2018 RX350L Bike Rack Options

Just got an ‘18 RX350L, love the car but having trouble finding trailer hitches for a bike mount.

I looked through some older posts about the hitch mounts and went to etrailer but for my make and model it appears to be too new - “At this time, there is not a Trailer Hitch confirmed to fit your 2018 Lexus RX 350L” is the message I receive on the site.

Our RXL is leased so I figured a hitch mount is the way to go so in 3 years I can use the bike hitch on whatever vehicle I get next as long as it also has a hitch. I mention the vehicle being leased because I saw where others made some modifications to the rear fascia and that is not an option for me.

Any others with a hitch on their18 RXL’s?
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Old 08-12-18, 07:17 PM
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Originally Posted by BigBJ
Just got an ‘18 RX350L, love the car but having trouble finding trailer hitches for a bike mount.

I looked through some older posts about the hitch mounts and went to etrailer but for my make and model it appears to be too new - “At this time, there is not a Trailer Hitch confirmed to fit your 2018 Lexus RX 350L” is the message I receive on the site.

Our RXL is leased so I figured a hitch mount is the way to go so in 3 years I can use the bike hitch on whatever vehicle I get next as long as it also has a hitch. I mention the vehicle being leased because I saw where others made some modifications to the rear fascia and that is not an option for me.

Any others with a hitch on their18 RXL’s?
I needed more info too...
thank you
Old 08-13-18, 11:02 AM
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BigBJ
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Has anyone confirmed that the mount points on the RX350 and RX350L are the same?

My concern with the L model is the extended chassis might changes a few minute things such as mount point and bolt locations and/or rear fascia may be slightly different from the regular RX350. On e-trailer I noticed you can select the RX350 and RX350L as separate model categories so I wasn’t if there were slight differences. You would think if they were identical they’d be grouped together as RX350/350L


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