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!
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!
