Okay, here’s my blog post about installing a trailer hitch rack on my SUV:
So, I finally caved and got a hitch rack for my SUV. I’ve been hauling bikes inside, and honestly, it’s a pain. Scratched up the interior more than once, and it’s just a hassle getting them in and out. Figured it was time for an upgrade.
The Pre-Purchase Jitters
First thing I did was a bunch of Googling. Looked at different brands, different styles… platform racks, hanging racks… It was a bit overwhelming, to be honest. I ended up leaning towards a platform style, seemed easier to load and unload the bikes.
Getting the Hitch
Before I could even think about the rack, I needed a hitch. My SUV didn’t come with one. I’m not super handy, so I decided against installing it myself. Took it to a local shop, and they got it done in a few hours. Cost a bit more than doing it myself, but, you know, peace of mind and all that.
Choosing the Rack
Back to the rack research! I finally settled on one that could hold two bikes, had good reviews, and wasn’t gonna break the bank. Ordered it online, and it showed up a few days later in a HUGE box.
Assembly Time!
Unboxing was… an experience. Lots of parts, lots of bubble wrap. The instructions were mostly pictures, which is fine, I guess. Took me a good hour, maybe two, to get it all put together. There were a couple of moments where I thought I’d messed it up, but I managed to figure it out. Lots of fiddling with bolts and screws.
- Step 1: Lay out all the parts. Make sure you have everything.
- Step 2: Bolt the main frame together. This was the trickiest part.
- Step 3: Attach the wheel trays. Pretty straightforward.
- Step 4: Add the arms that hold the bikes. A little fiddly, but manageable.
Mounting it to the Hitch
Getting the assembled rack onto the hitch was surprisingly easy. It just slides into the receiver, and then you tighten a bolt to secure it. Felt pretty solid once it was on there.
Loading the Bikes
This is where the platform rack really shines. Just lift the bikes onto the trays, strap down the wheels, and secure the frame with the arms. So much easier than trying to wrestle them inside the SUV!
The Test Drive
Took it for a spin around the block, then on the highway for a bit. Checked the bikes in the rearview mirror constantly at first. Everything seemed secure, no wobbling or anything. Success!
Overall, I’m super happy with it. It’s going to make transporting the bikes so much easier. If you’re on the fence about getting one, I’d say go for it! Just be prepared for a little bit of assembly work.
