Rear bike rack.

[TopazRS6spd]

Has anyone installed a rear mounted bike rack on their RS? If so what brand, and maybe pictures? I'm looking at the Yakima KingJoe 2 & 3, however what I am afraid of is having too much stress on the RS spoiler. GM did a very nice job on making sure there is no gap between the spoiler and tailgate, however this in return doesn't allow bike straps to run down in between the spoiler. I think it might be ok, but kind of nervous about those top straps cracking the spoiler.


UPDATE
Purchased: Draw-Tite hitch from E-trailer(No drilling, uses existing holes).
Kuat 2 bike rack.

 

[Palmaris]

I don't think the rack should hang on the spoiler. Usually the hooks go in the space between the tailgate and the body of the car. I would look at that to see if it fits.

Otherwise you could try a trailer hitch bike rack like I have.

 

[JackGSonic]

I have used this ultra-light bike rack on my LT without any problems. Granted the spoiler is a risk, but it seems well mounted, and as long as you aren't driving rough while a bike is there, it shouldn't be a problem.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004C966JE/

 

[LorbeerTLC]

Hollywood Bicycle Racks

I opted for a trailer hitch bicycle rack from Hollywood. I picked them because I have a recumbent bicycle which is much longer than a regular "diamond shape" bicycle.
I've had it now for over 3 years without any problems. It's been a fantastic rack!
Bike Racks, bicycle carriers, trunk racks, hitch racks - Hollywood Racks, Great Bike Racks Since 1973

 

[JackGSonic]

I find it promising that that Hollywood Racks site shows a Chevy Spark sporting their tailgate strapped model. Looks like the perfect solution that won't damage our spoiler.
F2 Over-the-Top Bike Rack - Spoiler Clearance Solution - Bike Racks, Hollywood Racks

 

[ahtoxa]

In my opinion, hitch racks are more secure and more practical. Having a hitch allows you to have an attachment to haul other junk, too, via a platform.

I use a hitch rack and mine and after having used trunk racks and roof racks, I prefer the hitch rack. Easy on, easy off as well.

 

[TopazRS6spd]

Which hitches are you guys using? Did it require trimming of the RS bumper?

 

[LorbeerTLC]

Class I: 1-1/4" Hitch Draw-Tite

Which hitches are you guys using? Did it require trimming of the RS bumper?

I had my professionally installed. Mine is a Draw-Tite Class I: 1-1/4" Hitch.
Draw-Tite - Trailer Hitches

As far as I know, Class I is the only class hitch that will fit the Sonic. The car is just isn't designed to "tow" anything larger. I haven't see anyone offer a Class II or higher for the Sonic.

There was no trimming on my 2012 Chevy Sonic LTZ Hatchback, but I would probably ask the manufacture your question just to be sure since you mentioned it's an RS model. I went to the site above and they show a hitch for either the sedan or hatchback so I think it should work for your RS just fine

Good-Luck!

 

[ahtoxa]

I don't recall there being any difficulties with the RS and hitches.

I have a Hidden Hitch. Install took less than 30 minutes, including the time to haul out the ramps and drive the rear tires onto them.

 

[TopazRS6spd]

Thanks for the input guys. I went on etrailer.com and they actually had a picture of one installed on an RS. No trimming and just uses factory holes with those special square bar nuts. Shall be going this route, I don't feel like messing up my pretty topaz blue spoiler

 

[ahtoxa]

etrailer is where I got my hitch and rack. Twice, for two different cars. Good business with good prices.

 

[TopazRS6spd]

Just an update for anyone that comes across this thread.

I purchased a Draw-Tite hitch from E-trailer. No drilling or modding needed, however it is a very snug fit against the bottom middle section of the rear bumper on the RS. However doesn't appear to be putting any stress on the bumper. 4 bolts that you run through holes that were already there, and only had to drop 2 exhaust hangers to give some room to work. Can barely see the hitch installed, and doesn't appear that it will have future issues for those that might wanna lower the car.

Purchased the Kuat 2 bike rack from them as well, very nice rack. Free shipping on both items.

Hope this helps someone that questions what can fit with the RS.

 

[hammrdwn510]

Any pics of install it finished product?

 

[TopazRS6spd]

Sure thing I will post some later. Though fair warning a 29er mountain bike makes sonics look like toy cars lol

 

[ryanbsimmcon]

Where's the pics of the 29 ers on there?

 

[cndctrdj]

any pics of the trailer hitches mounted? on the rs

 

[TopazRS6spd]

Sorry completely forgot to uploads some pics. Here is one i have readily available. Ill try to take better ones later.

 

[cndctrdj]

How much does it push the bumper? I'm looking for a hitch that doesn't mount under the muffler and doesn't hit the rs bumper. Can't find anyone that has one

 

[TopazRS6spd]

It fits snug, but doesn't really push the bumper. And the part it fits snug on isn't painted, its black plastic. It's actually a solid fit, which is good when you arent using a rack or anything, its not super obvious its there.

 

[TopazRS6spd]

Not the best pics, but snagged a few more on my phone at lunch break. You can see how close it is to bottom bumper.