I have an new Protege ES and don't want a roof rack and am not crazy about the trunk mounted racks. I bought a hitch but didn't install it yet. I'm a bit turned off at how HEAVY it is. Must weigh 40lbs. I know another 40lbs or so shouldn't matter but man, the thought of adding that weight to the car sorta turns me off but since I got a spoiler on the back, it's probably the best option. Just wondering how many others out there have installed bike hitches or if anyone uses a trunk mounted bike rack on their ES.

Thanks for any info!

 

What kind of hitch so you have? I installed a Hidden Hitch on the P5 two months ago. I bought the car mainly to transport my bicycle and I knew I was going to use a hitch. Sure it weighs some but in my mind I want something that is sturdy and can safely transport my $4000 bicycle investment.

What ever system you choose to transport your bicycle will have trade offs. IMHO the hitch is the way to go.

 

I got a Class I Sport Frame Receiver Hitch from www.etrailer.com.
How much does your hitch weigh would you guess?

 

I use a 29 pound hitch on a 98 Camry and it seems to
affect the feel of the suspension a little, and that's not
including the bike rack. The change in feel could be just
the thought of this heavy weight at the end of the car... I take
the hitch off in the winter.
Btw, be careful with Etrailer.com. They sent me a bent hitch
and would not replace it.

Jim

 

40lbs ... it's like having a kid on the back seat ..

 

Wow, what kind of bike is that? Magnesium? And I thought my kayak was expensive....!

 

BarryG, I think my hitch weighs between 30-40 lbs. I never weighed though.

Opus, Yes bicycles are expensive these days. I have a bicycle that is made out of carbon fiber so it is very light. In the bicycle world light cost some big $'s.