Fig. 205 Recommended weight distribution on the rear carrier system.

Common examples of rear carrier systems include specialized bicycle racks or multi-purpose cargo boxes that are designed to be mounted directly onto the trailer hitch.

Always ensure that you use only rear carrier systems that have been officially certified and specified by the respective manufacturer for your specific Seat Leon model, model year, and vehicle variant.

SEAT strongly recommends the use of genuine SEAT spare parts and accessories, which can be purchased directly from authorized brand dealers. Always install the rear carrier system strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's provided installation instructions.

The total load capacity of the setup is calculated from the combined weight of the rear carrier system itself plus the weight of all items and equipment carried on it.

The recommended maximum load capacity specified for a particular rear carrier system mounted on the trailer hitch can sometimes differ from the maximum vertical load limit of your specific vehicle coupling.

However, under no circumstances is it permitted to exceed the maximum legally permissible vertical load limit on your vehicle's tow hitch (which varies depending on the specific model variant).

The effective carrying load capacity is progressively reduced due to the mechanical lever effect that occurs the further away the center of gravity of the carrier system extends from the spherical ball head.

Always place heavy objects and bicycles as close as humanly possible to the trailer hitch mount ››› Fig. 205.

Maximum load capacity depending on the vehicle

To determine the correct recommended load capacity for your particular Seat Leon, check the maximum vertical load rating on its coupling. Please refer to the official load capacity specifications detailed in the following table.

In compliance with UN Regulation UN-R-55 guidelines, SEAT strongly advises against transporting more bicycles than the recommended maximum limit specified for your rear rack system.

Maximum load overhang of the rear carrier system

Fig. 206 Schematic representation of the maximum load overhang of a bicycle rack for two or three bicycles.

1. For rear racks with up to 55 kg load capacity: maximum overhang of 500 mm (approx. 19.7 in)
2. For rear racks with 75 kg load capacity: maximum overhang of 700 mm (approx. 27.6 in)

The maximum load overhang must not exceed 500 mm measured from the exact center of the tow ball head to the center rail of the rearmost support ››› Fig. 206 A in the case of two-bicycle racks. For larger three-bicycle racks, the overhang must never exceed 700 mm ››› Fig. 206 B.

WARNING The improper use, incorrect installation, or overloading of a rear carrier system mounted on the tow hook can lead to sudden structural failure, dangerous accidents, and severe injuries.

• Always verify that the chosen carrier system is fully compatible and suitable for your Seat Leon.
• Read, understand, and strictly observe the installation and safety instructions provided by the manufacturer of the rear carrier system.
• Never attempt to attach or clamp a rear carrier system underneath the spherical ball head of the trailer hitch. The mounting clamp could slip and detach due to the curved profile of the hitch neck.

Note Before setting off on a journey with your Seat Leon, SEAT recommends removing all detachable accessories, baskets, and bags from the cargo loaded onto the carrier system to the greatest extent possible.

Examples of such removable accessories include storage baskets, panniers, child seats, or auxiliary batteries. Removing them improves the vehicle's aerodynamics, reduces wind drag, and optimizes the center of gravity of the rear carrier system.