Can the Swagman XTC4 Bike Rack Be Used With a Hitch Expander

Published 09/24/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Swagman XTC4 Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1687)

$434.92

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

(564)

$95.12

Question:

Would it be okay to use this rack with a converter from 1.25 to 2inch hitch?

asked by: Meredith M

Expert Reply:

The Swagman XTC4 4 Bike Rack # S64665 can be used with a hitch adapter, like the Brophy Hitch Adapter # HTAD. However, there are some things to consider with a hitch adapter.

When using a hitch adapter, the tongue weight of your vehicle's hitch will be reduced by 50 percent. So if your trailer hitch has a tongue weight capacity of 200 pounds, with a hitch adapter it will have a tongue weight of 100 pounds. This means that the bike rack and all bikes loaded will need to weigh less than 100 pounds. With the XTC4 weighing almost 60 pounds by itself, the bikes would need to weigh less than 40 pounds.

Additionally, using a hitch adapter may cause the bike rack to move more while traveling. The XTC4 has an anti-rattle hitch lock, but this will only help secure the rack to the adapter, not the adapter to the rack.

If you have a Class I trailer hitch, you will be limited to carrying only 2 bikes on the XTC4 rack.

I have attached a help article on hitch adapters for you.

expert reply by: Victoria B