Trailer Hitch for 2009 Honda CR-V

[radtech91]

I'm looking to buy a trailer hitch for my CR-V, not for towing, but just for using it with a bike rack. I am tired of putting 2 bikes on top of each other in my CR-V and having to take them out so carefully so I don't mark up the interior, this was so much easier in my Element!

Any how these were the 2 I was looking into: Hidden Hitch and Curt.

Also found a 1 1/4" hitch: Hidden Hitch

The type of bike mount I am looking into is something like this one. Not sure what company yet, but I like this design a lot.

Which hitch is the better choice?

 

[bepperb]

They are probably both about the same.

If I were you I might consider a high end strap on like a Saris Bones. Then you can still open the tailgate with it attached and move it to a different car in the future.

But as to the hitches I doubt there will be a difference between the brands especially for what you are doing. Also I've ordered from etrailer.com and they did a good job.

 

[Dave Sherman]

I have the Curt 2" hitch on my 2008. Easy to install, and fits well. You'll have to move the muffler out of the way to get the bolts in place. Some WD-40 and some large pliers will pop the rubber hanger off pretty easily. Looks like the Hidden Hitch is about the same.

I also have a Thule bike rack, though I didn't spot the model I have. Definitely get a folding one.

 

[Hokiefyd]

My CR-V has the genuine Honda hitch. It's a Class II hitch, 1-1/4" plug. It's completely hidden, which I really like. All you see from the back is the receiver. I don't like the hitches where you can see the tube from behind, and a Class III is probably overkill for what you're doing.

Here are the instructions for installing the Honda hitch:

http://www.handa-accessories.com/crv/07hitch.pdf

Note: the instructions say to use the new exhaust hanger on the hitch, but that causes the muffler to hang low, so I used the stock hanger. The instructions also include guidance on installing the wiring kit, which is bought separately from the hitch and will not be needed in your case.

Not a great picture, but you can see the Honda hitch here. If you want more pictures of the Honda hitch, I can take them.

 

[radtech91]

Originally Posted By: Hokiefyd
My CR-V has the genuine Honda hitch. It's a Class II hitch, 1-1/4" plug. It's completely hidden, which I really like. All you see from the back is the receiver. I don't like the hitches where you can see the tube from behind, and a Class III is probably overkill for what you're doing.

Here are the instructions for installing the Honda hitch:

http://www.handa-accessories.com/crv/07hitch.pdf

Note: the instructions say to use the new exhaust hanger on the hitch, but that causes the muffler to hang low, so I used the stock hanger. The instructions also include guidance on installing the wiring kit, which is bought separately from the hitch and will not be needed in your case.

Not a great picture, but you can see the Honda hitch here. If you want more pictures of the Honda hitch, I can take them.

I think that is actually a class I and not a class II. That does look really nice. Can you show me some more pictures, that would be great!

 

[D189379]

For class II, I'd just go with the cheapest one.

 

[Rhymingmechanic]

The bright white "Hidden Hitch" logo has always turned me off from that brand.

 

[Hokiefyd]

Here are pictures of the genuine Honda hitch on my 2008 CR-V.

It's completely hidden from view, except for the obvious receiver part. The hitch isn't cheap, but heck, you only buy it once. I doubt the quality is any better than any other brand, but I really like that it's tucked up and out of the way.

 

[01rangerxl]

I have had both Hidden Hitch and Curt hitches. Both Class III, round tube style with 2" openings. Both installed on Ford Rangers that use the same hitch part #s.

Quality/installation is pretty much the same. I never worried about either hitch being up to the task and I use mine for towing. The Curt installation went a little smoother. The Hidden Hitch was just slightly off from the mounting holes on the frame, whereas the Curt was a perfect fit.

The Hidden Hitch was a little more hidden than the Curt, but both are significantly sleeker than a square tube hitch for this application and less likely to scrape when driving through ditches or ruts.