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Best e-bike carrying rack

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by Suzanne Betts, May 4, 2021.

  1. Suzanne Betts

    Suzanne Betts Junior Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
    Nevada City, CA
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Three
    Hello friends, I really have done a lot of reading here on the forum and elsewhere to answer this question (but am still stumped) - does anyone have a suggestion for the best bicycle rack to carry an e-bike on the rear of my Gen-3 2012 Prius? I think the best is probably a hitch-mount type rack (I have a rear-mount that rests on the window that is sketchy and wobbly - nearly lost the bike on my last trip), and I'm thinking that a hitch-mount rack with 1 1/4" fitting is fine (as opposed to a 2" hitch fitting). I would probably like the kind that has the tire trays down low rather than hanging the bikes, just so I don't have to pick up the e-bike so high to load it. The bike weighs about 45# after the battery is removed and I'm over 60 years young. Some of these racks say they have a weight capacity of up to 45#, others say definitely don't load a bike that weighs more than 35# (even though the rack is designed for 2 bikes it is still not recommended to put one heavier bike on it rather than loading two lighter bikes).

    So....1) do you have a suggestion for the best hitch (brand/size etc) that fastens under the rear of the car easily and would be safe and reliable, 2) do you have a suggestion for the best bike rack for a 45# bike (capacity of 1 bike is fine, 2 bikes for flexibility is better), and 3) I would prefer a good locking system integrated in the rack so that my bike is safe if I go into a store while traveling and obviously need to leave the bike outside (it would be expensive to replace this bike!). All told, I'd really like to get the whole setup (hitch/rack/lock system) for about $300 or maybe $400, and obviously some killer heavy-duty items that I've seen are much more expensive than this. Cost is a current concern for me, as is the safety and security of transport.

    Thanks so much for any guidance you can provide!
     
    PriusCamper likes this.
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    Plug-in Base
    i don't have one, but the hollywood on a 1 1/4" curt hitch seems to be working well for some people
     
  3. Suzanne Betts

    Suzanne Betts Junior Member

    Joined:
    Jan 21, 2018
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    Location:
    Nevada City, CA
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Three
    Thanks. That is what I am seeing, too, from lots of reading. I just wanted to be sure I was on the right track. I think I will get the
    Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4" - Item # 24847
    that fits this car specifically
    and the
    Hollywood Racks - 2-Bike Hitch Mounted Rack, HR200Z Trail Rider Platform Style Bike Rack - Fits 1.25 and 2-Inch Receivers
    that holds up to a 45# bike (my ebike is 46# without the battery, just weighed it).

    This seems the least expensive and will-work, and completely safe option. Thanks!
     
    bisco likes this.
  4. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    all the best!(y)