Hitch Bike Rack for 2005

[djg1701]

Hi,
I'm looking for a bike rack to carry 3 or 4 bikes on the hitch of my 2005. The hitch is a Class I, 1 1/4" Hidden Hitch.

I just spend a couple of hours trying every Thule and Yakima hitch rack that the dealer had in stock (he had a lot), and kept coming up short -- couldn't align the hitch holes -- due to the spare tire. They aggressively agrued against any kind of any extension.

Roof is not an option (I have a carrier box up top), and I rather not remove the spare since I don't have room to carry it inside when camping.

Any thoughts or first-hand success with another make/model of bike rack to share? Thanks very much for your help!

[Eddie168]

Did you ever find one DJ?

I am in a similar position witha 2005 model. I have the Honda fitted Removable Towbar and have been looking at the new Thule G5 909 with the spare wheel adaptor - but there is a question mark over whether it will work.. It looks as though it should be fine, but no mention of compatability anywhere!

I desperately need a towbar solution... can anyone help ?

[RinconVTR]

Hi,
I'm looking for a bike rack to carry 3 or 4 bikes on the hitch of my 2005. The hitch is a Class I, 1 1/4" Hidden Hitch.

I just spend a couple of hours trying every Thule and Yakima hitch rack that the dealer had in stock (he had a lot), and kept coming up short -- couldn't align the hitch holes -- due to the spare tire. They aggressively agrued against any kind of any extension.

Roof is not an option (I have a carrier box up top), and I rather not remove the spare since I don't have room to carry it inside when camping.

Any thoughts or first-hand success with another make/model of bike rack to share? Thanks very much for your help!

Your dealer was right to agressively aurgue against any sort of exension for a 1-1/4" hitch for use with a bike rack. Many 4 bike racks, loaded, will be over the 200 lb tongue rating for the 1-1/4" hitches.

Many racks are so long (and the reason why extensions cause problems), is that you have to consider the moment arm (leverage) effect. For example, a 3ft total length rack, with just one 30lb bike on the end position, techically puts about 90lbs on the tongue. Now add more bike, and consider the weight of the rack, and WOW you're way over 200lb tongue weight.

IMO, the best option for bike rack options, WITH extension options, is to replace your hitch with a 2" version. You'll bump up your load capacity to 350lbs and thus more available options become options for your CR-V.