mechmike10
New member
I have a 2011 SR5 with no suspension mods. I needed to be able to carry bikes while also towing a travel trailer. Putting the bikes on the roof was not an option, so I opted for a Curt front mounted hitch and a hitch mounted bike rack. I purchased the hitch from etrailer. The installation was straightforward, but would be much easier with a lift. It is necessary to have an extra set of hands to hold the hitch in place while getting some of the bolts started. I had 2 minor problems. A couple of the bolts are to be torqued to 210 ft-lbs. This proved impossible while laying on my back under the SUV. I had my Toyota dealer finish torquing these two bolts during a routine service. Reinstalling the plastic underbody shields after the hitch is in place is tough because some of the screws are practically inaccessible. I simply left out a couple of screws without ill effect. I am using a Hollywood SportRider SE2 bike rack with a couple of adult sized "comfort bikes." This works OK but it took a little trial and error to position the bikes on the rack so as to minimize the distraction of having to look over/past the handlebars and seats. I find it is helpful to turn the handlebars down when putting the bikes on the front. So far, we have driven with this setup in Pennsylvania and Delaware without complaint from the police. (We used to travel like this 20 years ago while pulling a trailer with a Suburban and a Ford van and never had an issue.) Once we reach our destination I transfer the rack to the rear of the 4Runner. I like the rack; it is very heavy duty and does not shake or vibrate even at highway speeds.
