mrgold35
Well-Known Member
All the work I did to my Acura RDX was to improve its handling at limits to go with the engine mods of +40hp/+40tq I added to the 2.3L turbo 4 engine with a ECU reflash, larger intercooler, and intake. I just noticed an added benefit of less squat with the extra rear weight of Saris SuperClamp 4 Freedom rack+ two Radrovers and less body lean in corners with the suspension upgrades. I prefer using my smaller CUV to haul my bikes because the vehicle+rack can fit in my garage in the up position and I can leave it on for days/weeks (can't close my garage door with the empty bike rack on my 7 passenger SUV).
The factory limits still applies for any type of hitch you install from Class I, II, or III. My Acura RDX is limited to Class I hitch; but, I use an aftermarket Class II hidden 2" hitch. I went this route because I didn't want to have to add an adapter to the rack when I switch my bike rack between my Acura MDX's Class II hitch. I'm still limited to all the same restrictions of 1500lbs tow rating and tongue limit with my Class II hitch on my smaller Acura RDX.
I see a lot of sedans and small hatchbacks with Saris, Yakima, Thule, and 1up racks with the same or less tongue weight and little to no towing capabilities. We might be overthinking an issue that might not be a significant concern in everyday use. These issue might become clearer if you ask these answers from the folks from a Mazda3 forum?
Acura RDX Hidden Class II 2" hidden hitch that tucks under the bumper and doesn't stick out as far as the factory Class I hitch:
The factory limits still applies for any type of hitch you install from Class I, II, or III. My Acura RDX is limited to Class I hitch; but, I use an aftermarket Class II hidden 2" hitch. I went this route because I didn't want to have to add an adapter to the rack when I switch my bike rack between my Acura MDX's Class II hitch. I'm still limited to all the same restrictions of 1500lbs tow rating and tongue limit with my Class II hitch on my smaller Acura RDX.
I see a lot of sedans and small hatchbacks with Saris, Yakima, Thule, and 1up racks with the same or less tongue weight and little to no towing capabilities. We might be overthinking an issue that might not be a significant concern in everyday use. These issue might become clearer if you ask these answers from the folks from a Mazda3 forum?
Acura RDX Hidden Class II 2" hidden hitch that tucks under the bumper and doesn't stick out as far as the factory Class I hitch:
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