How Many Bikes Can you Carry with Swagman Trailhead Bike Carrier on a Class I Hitch

Question:

I have a 2008 Chevy HHR with a Hidden Hitch Class I, 2000# capacity, 200# tongue weight, 1 1/4 x 1 1/4 receiver. Why am I limited to 2 bikes instead of 3 when using this bike rack with this hitch?

asked by: David A

Expert Reply:

Class I hitches can not handle the additional weight and leverage that the third bike will put on the hitch. The weight of the third bike will be extended pretty far out and away from the hitch pin so the leverage would be too much for the hitch.

You could use this Swagman Trailhead 3 Bike Carrier # S63365 that you referenced on the hitch that is on your 2008 Chevy HHR but you should not put more than 2 bikes on this rack at a time.

I attached installation instructions for this product for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C