Can You Carry More Than 2 Bikes Using a Class I Trailer Hitch
Question:
Is this true even if the 3-bike rack plus bikes are under the tongue weight? Note: You can only carry 2 bikes when using a Class I trailer hitch
asked by: Lawrence
Expert Reply:
Yes, that note is accurate. A Class I trailer hitch receiver is limited to only 2 bikes regardless of the amount of weight it's carrying. This is due to the exaggerated force caused by the additional leverage from the bikes being further away from the vehicle. A Class II hitch, which is also 1-1/4 inches, is designed to withstand the added stress but a Class I hitch is not.
So when using a bike rack like the Thule Helium Pro, part # TH9043PRO, you're limited to only two bikes in a Class I hitch even though the rack is a 3-bike rack.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Helium Pro Bike Rack for 3 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 3 Bikes
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
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Rayan J.
6/14/2020
I have a 1-1/4 in. class one hitch on my 2019 Subaru Outback (factory installed into the rear frame of the car) and I would like to use a 4 bike Allen Sports 2 in. hitch rack with a hitch adapter. I understand that a class one hitch can't support the vertical weight of a 4 bike rack, so I'm planning on using a cargo strap to attach the top of the hanging rack to the roof crossbar. The idea is to alleviate the tongue weight of the rack by providing a second support point. Do you think that's a reasonable workaround solution?