Choosing Correct Hitch Tongue Weight Capacity for Using a 4-Bike Platform Bike Rack on Honda CR-V

Updated 07/01/2015 | Published 06/30/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(821)

$175.94

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(677)

$16.44

Erickson Re-Tractable Ratchet Straps w/ Push Button Releases - 1" x 10' - 400 lbs - Qty 2

(1289)

$31.16

Question:

Ive got a Hollywood brand heavy duty bike rack that works with a 2 inch receiver, such as the model here on trailer C13119 The rack can holds 2 bikes, but can do 4 by attaching an extension. The 2 bike configuration weighs approx. 60 lbs. With the extension, add another 25. With 2 bikes, at 35 lbs per bike, total weight would be about 125 lbs. With 4 bikes, total weight may get up around 220 lbs. I would assume the C13119s rating of 350 lbs, should be sufficient, but I was unsure if the conditions of driving with bikes loaded, causes any significant additional pressure that should be accounted for by getting a hitch that is rated at a higher tongue weight. In other words, as your driving over bumps and such, does that cause more demand on the hitch? thanks

asked by: Tony L

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt Class III trailer hitch # C13119 does have a 350-lb tongue weight (TW) rating as you noted, and that capacity must be enough for the weight of the bike rack itself plus that of your loaded bikes. A substantial 4-bike rack like the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HR1400Z weighs about 80-lbs all by itself. Add the bikes and you are indeed talking about a hefty load on the hitch. In your case I absolutely agree that using a higher-rated hitch like Draw-Tite # 75742 is the way to go. Its 525-lb TW capacity gives you a nice safety margin for only a few more dollars.

You also need to check your manual for the car's own tongue weight capacity, which could be less than the hitch's. Neither limit can be exceeded.

The TW load on the hitch plus the motion in the system when you drive does increase the stresses on the hitch. Some hitches actually REQUIRE you to use a support strap, # 18050, for loads like a bike rack but the above hitch does not. Adding some additional support by use of a set of ratcheting straps is an excellent idea in any case, even if not required. Part # EM34415 from Erickson, for example, is a great way to take some of the stress off the hitch and to reduce the motion of the carrier while you drive. If you have a roof crossbar to connect it to then this is a good option.

expert reply by: Adam R