Compatibility of Brophy HT5R Hitch Adapter with 2-Inch Bike Carrier on 2016 Mazda CX-3  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hitch adapters can sometimes be handy for a quick-fix, but since your 2016 Mazda CX-3 can only accept a light-duty 1-1/4-inch hitch I really cannot recommend using any type of hitch adapter. Here's why. Any type of adapter, such as the Brophy # HT5R, will cost you half of your hitch's rated capacity. So a 200-lb-rated Class I hitch like my recommended Draw-Tite # 24933 will have only a 100-lb capacity if used with the Brophy adapter.

The reason for this loss of hitch capacity is that any adapter extends the distance from the hitch tube to the actual weight load it is supporting. This places more leverage on the hitch tube and results in the halving of its rated capacity. If you used the Brophy adapter then the combined weight of your rack and two bikes would have to remain with the reduced 100-lb hitch capacity. Also, note that you will find there is going to be more motion of the loaded rack when you use the adapter than when you used it in your old car that had a 2-inch hitch. This is a result of the extra connection point introduced by the adapter.

A better option is to use a Class I compatible hitch rack that offers plenty of clearance at the back of the car like the lightweight Swagman XC # S64650. It will fit directly into the Class I hitch, no adapters required, and this arrangement means you can easily carry up to 2 bikes of up to 35-lbs each. This rack does not include locks but these can be added if you like; part # S64029 to lock the rack to your hitch. This will also reduce the rattle. Then a cable lock # e98891 to lock the bikes to the rack.

If you do decide to use the adapter along with your existing rack then I recommend you use a support strap(s) of some type to help steady the rack and reduce the potential for it to twist the hitch tube. Part # 18050 will work or you can use a set of ratcheting tie-down straps like Erickson's # EM05710.

expert reply by: Adam R

0