I want to install a trailer hitch on my 2.5T 2004 V70. My main purpose is to allow use of my Thule hitch bike rack. I have read about Curt 12318 and Hidden Hitch 90804. Does anyone have any thoughts on these brands or other recommendations?
Thanks,
Steve
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Steven 04 C70 HPT, 04 V70 2.5T Titanium

I have a hidden hitch on my 99V70. Don't know the model, installed it about 4 yrs ago. Have easily carried up to 4 bikes long distances. No problem with it except the odd scraping on the bottom coming out of some parking lots. On vacations, I have a cargo box on the roof as well as another bike carrier there ( need to carry 5 bikes). The roof mount works well too but more limited on number of bikes you can carry.

Hi Steven

I don't know about the trailer hitches you've mentioned. But I've used the one from U-Haul on a number of Volvos (2 850's and now on a 2002 V70) and they bolt right on and work great. I pull a pop-up camper and also use it for my bike carrier. If my memory serves me right I think they were under $200.

Ketchb

I have yet to figure out why a cycling enthusiast would put thier bikes one of these racks. Dirt and road spray completely covers the bikes while they are being transported. And the hitch racks do not secure the bike nearly as well as a roof rack does. And, you can't access the rear of the car without fooling around with this major claptrap. Unless you are hauling Huffies, re-consider and get a nice set of roof racks.

Pros and cons to both systems. I agree, the bikes on top do not get AS dirty as the bikes on the rear. If one is under 5'8", getting the bike on top can be quite a challange. Taking the roof rack off during the work week is also a pain. Plus, leaving the rack on the top reduces gas milage and tears up the rubber door seals.
The trailer hitch approach, while dirty in the rain, allows for easy removal, and more than 2 bikes for a family with 4 bikes to haul to a bike trail or park.
I had a roof rack for a long time and almost caught the garage door forgetting the bikes were on top! That would have been a disaster, a totaled car and 2 bikes!

Klaus
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Please answer, we need to know if the advice is good or bad. The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are 2 turbos :)

Just to follow up. I purchased a "Hidden Hitch" brand trailer hitch which easily installed with three bolts to the frame of my V70. I use a Thule four bike rack which works nicely for me. I put my bike inside the car or avoid travel if it is raining. Now I can also pull a small trailer as well. BTW, my Kestrel Evoke is not exactly a Huffy.

:-)
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Steven 04 C70 HPT, 04 V70 2.5T Titanium