Using Hitch Adapter to Carry 2 Inch Bike Rack Using 1-1/4 Inch Receiver Hitch

Published 03/12/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(101)

$200.94

EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"

(50)

$375.64

Hollywood Racks Trail Rider Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(459)

$299.99

Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver

(542)

$86.48

Question:

Bought a 2016 C max and need a hitch for my bike rack. Its 2 inches, a platform style. I love it and want to keep using it. This Curt hitch is 1.25. Would i get a connector to make them work together? Excuse my ignorance! Thank you!

asked by: Barb

Expert Reply:

You could indeed use an adapter like # HTAD that would allow you to use your current bike rack in a 1-1/4 inch receiver, but that's never the first option I'd recommend. Using an adapter moves the load of the bike rack further away from the rear of the vehicle increasing the leverage applied to the hitch and the hitch's attachment points to the vehicle. Because of this, any time an adapter is used the towing and tongue weight capacity of the hitch is reduced by half. This would mean that the weight of your bike rack plus what the bikes weigh couldn't exceed 100 lbs which doesn't leave much capacity. Not only is the hitch capacity greatly reduced, but introducing another piece into the bike-rack connection can cause the bike rack to bounce which is very hard on the hitch and the bike rack. This is why we recommend you avoid using adapters if at all possible.

The best alternative here would be to either go with a hitch compatible with a 2 inch bike rack such as # 306-X7200 or to go with a bike rack that's compatible with a 1-1/4 inch hitch, like the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider, part # HR200Z. This rack is extremely strong, and can handle bikes weighing up to 45 lbs apiece. A locking hitch pin is included and the sliding bike retaining hooks are lockable as well.

I've linked you to a product description video featuring the bike rack I mentioned.

expert reply by: Mike L