Trailer Hitch - Benzworld.org - Mercedes-Benz Discussion Forum

Canada Stig · 10-20-2009, 11:43 AM

I found some old threads on this topic - but is there any new information anyone can share?

I am looking for a hitch strictly for the purpose of using a Bike rack. I know MB sells roof mount ones (I hate those - pain in the a$$ to get Bikes up and down) and inside mount bike racks (2 kids - no can do). I am not planning on towing a thing other than bikes on a hitch mounted rack.

Suggestions?

**Mike Tee** · 10-20-2009, 12:42 PM

OE hitches are available in Europe and a dealer can probably special order one for you. Towing limit is 1500 kg (braked), so bikes should be no problem. Let me know if you need a part number.

kdbcom · 10-20-2009, 02:42 PM

Can recommend this rack made by THULE (similar to M/B one but far cheaper) this model rack can take up to 4 bikes.

I have modified mine to take a Wheelchair & other mobility bits. It normally goes higher on the back of the car keeping the number plate clear. I have driven with this in Germany at speeds in excess of 110 mph (175+ kph) and it is stable. Probably would not want to drive with it at those speeds with bike wheels hanging out of the side of the car though.

It is held on by metal straps not nylon ones so it is very strong. You can rock the car sideways with it, it is that solid.

BTW that hose looking part going under the bumper is pipe insulation covering an electrical cable to a socket I have mounted under the boot to power the trailer board rear & stop lights as the high level brake light is obscured (legal requirement). The insulation protects the paitwork & the cable. Connection plug & sockets were made using 3 pin computer style "hot & cold" plugs & sockets allowing easy removal.

For 3 or 4 bikes you get a longer 'wheel tray' which projects further to the rear & you have adjustable Vee channels to hold the bike wheels these were not needed in my case but they do go out to about the width of the car

babyb200 · 10-20-2009, 06:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Canada Stig

I found some old threads on this topic - but is there any new information anyone can share?

I am looking for a hitch strictly for the purpose of using a Bike rack. I know MB sells roof mount ones (I hate those - pain in the a$$ to get Bikes up and down) and inside mount bike racks (2 kids - no can do). I am not planning on towing a thing other than bikes on a hitch mounted rack.

Suggestions?

I believe Mercedes sells a rear mount bike rack that mounts lkke a trailer hitch and swings out so that you can still access the cargo area. I thought I saw one on a B last time I was in the dealer showroom. You can likely check the accessory catalogue for availabilty.

We have a roof mounted one which works quite well. No problems so far. We use the MB racks and thule bike racks. Simply flip them up, and their is an arm that holds them in place. The reason we went with the roof mount was for versatility. We also have a cargo box and ski racks. It worked out far more cost effective this way and we can use all 3 components with both cars. The MB rack is made by Thule, so it will interface with Thule specific branded products. Much of the MB stuff is actually cheaper then purchasing Thule brand. For once MB/dealer is cheaper, hard to believe but true.

Good luck in your search

**Mike Tee** · 10-20-2009, 08:34 PM

The factory hitch is of the "invisible removable" type, and the part number is:

B6 685 0061

kdbcom · 10-21-2009, 01:51 AM

Quote " The MB rack is made by Thule, so it will interface with Thule specific branded products. Much of the MB stuff is actually cheaper then purchasing Thule brand. For once MB/dealer is cheaper, hard to believe but true.

I think this only applies over your side of the pond (probably as Thule are based in Europe) as here the M/B racks etc are 33-50% dearer.

Some so called invisible tow bars do require a cutting of the bumper.

If possible would suggest you look at tow bar bike carriers that have channels for the wheels, my next door neighbour has a pole type bike carrier that allows the bike to swing & under moderate braking the wheels & pedals can come into contact with the cars bodywork.

**Mike Tee** · 10-21-2009, 07:33 AM

There is a photo of the hitch in the European accessory brochure and it hangs below the uncut bumper when attached and curves upward to attain the proper height. Totally invisible when removed....

European tow balls and US ones are a mm or two different in size though, probably not significant.

emeSAP43 · 10-21-2009, 07:39 AM

How do you feel about the bicycle rack that is in the current Canadian accessories brochure on page 21. Part Number B6 685 1109.

It does not seem to need a trailer hitch.

http://www.mercedes-benz.ca/site/mb_...ochure_eng.pdf

kdbcom · 10-21-2009, 09:58 AM

In the UK we have quite a choice of tow bars & although they call them invisible they do require a bumper cut. The tow bar fitting on the B is a relatively easy procedure.

Canada Stig · 10-21-2009, 10:23 AM

Thanks to everyone for the suggestions. The Thule model is available here - Called a camper / trailer dealer in Orillia, ON that I know and he can get it for me - price is "about" $400 with shipping and install (no wiring harness). Will find out about MB product.