I would like to know if it is possible to easily install a trailer hitch on the 2001 Maxima. With the 96 max I would haul two bikes using a trunk rack. This does not seem feasible on the 2001 Max.

According to my local bike shop, the best kind of hitch to install is one with a two inch receiver. Can such a hitch be installed on the 2001 max? Has anyone actually done it.

If I do not use a roof rack or a trunk rack to haul my two bikes what choice is there except for a rack attached to a trailer hitch?

 

I was interested in attaching a hitch to my car so I could pull my Quad. When I talked to the guy he said it will be difficult to install a hitch because he has to mount it to the frame or something like that. I decided not to get the hitch and eventually get a roof rack with a ferring which looks cool for my bikes, skis, boards, and cayak. As for the quad guess I won't be pulling it with the maxima...

 

One of the determining factors of me getting my Max is that the trunk was larger than most cars, and I could lay down the rear seats and utilize the pass-through to lay my bike back there (with wheel removed). Not as easy, and I probably look like a poser, but I don't have to worry about fighting with a rack and what not, not to mention changing the looks of the car. Oh, well.

I once tried a Saris "Bones" rack (on a previous car), which hangs off the back over the spoiler. I would not recommend this since the bumper and most of the rear of the car will get scratched, not to mention the bike. Plus, I couldn't easily open the trunk. The rack was nice, though.

 

Try the Saris roof rack. I have it on my 2K, and it's perfect. Takes about 5 minutes to put on or take off (other racks take close to 30 minutes - Thule, Yakima, etc..), has attachments for bikes without having to take the front tire off, as well as others for snowboards, etc. It will cost you, but it is worth it

 

just for people who don't know Saris site is http://www.saris-products.com. Just wondering compared to Thule or Yakima was Saris cheaper? Roof Rack wisee....

 

Saris is just as good, just difficult to find. I live in an area with a couple hundred thousand people and we only have one local Saris dealer. We have about 15 Yakima and Thule dealers.

I have a Yakima system that I've been very happy with. The key to quick removal and install is to get a measurement from a specific spot (windshield frame is what I use) and reference that every time you install it. Pops right back into place every time.

Regarding naidd's comments on the options available for Saris, Yakima and Thule both have all those options as well (bike mounts with the front wheel, snowboard, kayak, etc).