Abstract: A mounting apparatus for use at the rear of a vehicle having a hitch element includes an object support platform. The object support platform includes an platform section lying generally in a plane for positioning of an object thereon. The object support platform further includes a support member. The mounting apparatus further includes a hitch member which includes a position locking and coupling device connected to a portion of the hitch member for adjustably coupling a portion of the elongated support member such that the plane in which the platform section generally lies is adjustable to a plurality of positions at the rear of the vehicle. The platform section may be for supporting a carrier receptacle or one or more bicycles.