jdip

So I have both kayaks and bikes. Kayaks obviously can only be transported on roof rack. I currently only have a roof rack for my bike. Due to the spoiler there is only 1 manufacturer of a trunk mount bike rack that won't harm the spoiler with the straps. The thing looks hideous and uses the top straps to secure to the rear cross bar. Seems counter productive to me.
I would like to add a hitch to my 2013 q5 prem plus. I only plan on using it for a bike rack. I don't have anything to tow or don't see having anything in the near future. My only concern is price. I really don't want the low ground clearance of an aftermarket hitch and I like that the oem is integrated into the bumper. I do believe I have the panel and I don't mind my bumper cover being cut if it looks nice and clean.
However if there is no possible way of getting around the $1000+ cost of oem I would absolutely go aftermarket route. I don't see any need for having wiring/trailer lights hooked up and not really sure if that's optional when going the oem route.To my knowledge only 4 manufacturers of aftermarket hitches I can find are Curt hitch, hidden hitch, drawtite, and Reese.
It looks like the reese is the closest i can find to oem as it sits high and requires trimming of the cover but i cant find many photos or comparisons. Only whats on google images. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

A3inNC

This is a long thread i recently read about about invisihitch / execuhitch
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/q5-...-area-2860537/

It looks like the ideal solution to me. This is a little more recent:
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/q5-...tions-2881570/

jdip

Thanks for that link. Was never aware of the invisi hitch. Looks like a good option. I'm seeing that Reese 44755

http://www.reeseprod.com/products/trailer-hitches/class-iii-iv-receiver/professional-receiver/WfzaCtfZMf3UZoW6GkZ6Wgbwg5Vk97f%7C
and Draw tite 75940
http://www.draw-tite.com/products/trailer-hitches/class-iii-iv-receiver/max-frame-receiver/WfzaCtfZMf0hoaEk3ihHPcDWdR0AZKAK

besides being the same product looks like its as close to oem as possible and since wiring isn't an issue may save me the most money. I'm going to have to look into that invisi hitch more too.

Valyr

I have the invisihitch-- installation with wiring hook up cost me $375.00. Takes 2 minutes to remove receiver , put in spare tire cubby, reinstall cover plate and return to invisibility. I too only have used for bike rack but am ready for full Monty if/when needed. No brainier except for the $$$.

Yoshimura

invisihitch / execuhitch FTW!

jdip

I got quoted $419 for the bike rack only package and $548 for the full package with wiring ball and rack attachment. All without installation.
Seem fair?

Yoshimura

It's the price I paid.

jdip

Those with invisihitch did you all have good luck with the wiring and stop/tail/turn functions without any errors from the car?

xpspc

Trailer hitch help

slotriathl8

I just got a Curt hitch installed by my local auto collision shop. Hitch and install $265, and I bought the Saris Freedom for $225. Ground clearance does not seem to be an issue at all and I'm happy with the final product....and bottom line cost. Like you, I am only going to use the hitch for bike rack.