rc2o6

iTrader: (2)

Hey everyone,

I recently purchased a road bike (my first road bike and new to cycling) and decided that I want to install a rear tow hitch for a bike rack. I don't want a roof rack nor is the trunk rack any more appealing. I've searched the forums for the ISF and didn't find too many options.

I searched the 2IS section and found several threads including this one with Lobuxracer's comments in it: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...n-is350-7.html

Another thread with comments from member BJM711: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...tow-hitch.html

I'm thinking about getting the Curt Class I Receiver Hitch:
$126 shipped (with tax):
$125 shipped (with 10% off promo) - http://www.autoanything.com/towing/73A3874A0A0.aspx
$146 shipped - http://www.autoaccessoriesgarage.com...Receiver-Hitch
$172 shipped - http://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hitc...eid=2008307594

Now, do you guys think it'll be any more difficult to install the Curt Class 1 hitch considering that I also have a borla catback installed, an S4Play rear diffuser, and I'm lowered with Tein H-tech springs (Fronts only) - see picture below.
Are there other hitch options out there?
Is the install easy enough to do in my apt garage (limited tools and space) or should I take it to a shop (probably where I had my borla exhaust installed)...?

Any bike rack recommendations?
I was thinking about a low hanging bike rack simillar to this: http://www.rei.com/product/799931/th...ike-hitch-rack
I plan to shop craigslist/online retailers for the best deals for something with a similar setup.



I'd really appreciate the responses and thoughts/opinions. Thanks in advance

**Updated 6/7/13 - Post 9**

Pqbrown

iTrader: (9)

Let me just chime in on this because I use my F for taking my stumpjumper mountain biking and was in the same dilemma. I too have the lower diffuser and I'm not sure a hitch rack would work or be very appealing. I've been using a roof rack called the seasucker and it works great and it only takes a few minutes to put on and mount my bike. I got the mini bomber and it mounts on my windshield. Here's the website. http://www.seasucker.com/product-category/bike-racks/. Good to know all your options!

Biggu

iTrader: (12)

I'm not sure ill be much help but I plan on using a roof rack.

lobuxracer

iTrader: (2)

You won't get the hitch on the car with the diffuser in place. I'll take some pics tomorrow and you'll see what I mean. If you want to keep the diffuser, you'll have to go roof rack.

Mikifiki

I race road and mountain bike. I really wanted a bike rack, its just so ugly and you can never really hide the rear receiver. I just ended up buying a used Honda Element as a beater :-)

I had a 335 before and the back seats folded down you could quickly stuff the bike in. I also bout a Thule bmw roof rack for more bikes, with that set up I could take it on and off in a little over 5 min. The bimmer had hidden screw holes on top. For the ISF I've only ever seen the roof rack that fit in between the top door frame.

VtotheJ

iTrader: (2)

Check this out, came across this while browsing 6speedonline.... looks like even some supercar owners are using this. I'm thinking of getting a bicycle as well, but I will probably use this on my Integra.

http://www.seasucker.com/shop/1187/

kauaian

iTrader: (18)

That is awesome! A bit over priced IMO but a good alternative.

Pqbrown

iTrader: (9)

Not overpriced when compared to a full roof rack system. It really is a good set up. I've had mine for about a year with no issues at all.

rc2o6

iTrader: (2)

Nice video VtotheJ
Thanks again Lance (Lobuxracer) for the tips/advice, I really appreciate the words of wisdom

Updates:

Purchased a Curt Class 1 Hitch Receiver 1.25" from Autoanything.com for $118 shipped.
Purchased a Saris Freedom bike rack from craigslist for $100 (retails for $230).
Went to my exhaust shop and had them install the Hitch receiver.
I installed the Saris Freedom bike rack to the hitch. Bike fits perfectly with ease

Sadly, I had to remove the S4Play diffuser. I may sell it down the road

What do ya'll think? The hitch is pretty stealth when the bike rack isn't in place

Juanca

iTrader: (5)

Since a road bike is not heavy at all, I'd have gone with this Thule rack:

http://www.thule.com/en-us/us/produc...e-9003-_-16002

FD3SISF

iTrader: (2)

I was gonna put a bike rack on my F, but decided just to buy a beater car just to haul my bike.

TinManSam

Thinking about getting the seasucker rack system. I really like the concept but don't want to damage my paint. You said that you mount yours on the windshield; where do you put the rear wheel strap? Do you think I could put the front mount on my sunroof and rear strap on my rear window? (I have a standard adult size mountain bike) Thanks!

DCoolBeans

Anybody else mount a receiver?

looking to tow a few bikes.

lobuxracer

iTrader: (2)

I have a Kuat NV Base 2.0, and a Cervelo S5 TdF edition I haul on it. Hitch is a Curt for a 2IS. Has been great for years.

av8or

I use Thule Raceway Pro 2. This thing is a beast and not cheap looking. It is very sturdy and uses cables to secure it to your trunk. Very clean when installed. As an extra precaution, I do tie down one of the bike pedals to one of the racks vertical support post so I can still drive fast 😀. This rack also has an integrated cable lock that locks your top tube to the rack.