Class I Hitch Compatibility with Cargo Carrier and Bike Rack

Updated 08/21/2017 | Published 08/19/2017

Products Featured in This Question

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

(59)

$176.75

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

(336)

$178.93

Curt 2 Bike Platform Rack - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount - Tilting

(379)

$309.95

17x46 Curt Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Steel - 500 lbs

(1106)

$166.38

Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver with 5" Rise

(552)

$104.93

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

(552)

$90.69

Question:

can you tell me, I have a 2016 honda accord touring sedan and would like to add a receiver hitch. My bike rack and lawn mower hauler are both 2inch but receivers all look to be 11/4 for that car. I see I can buy a reducer but what about an enlarger ?

asked by: Ron O

Expert Reply:

You are correct that your 2016 Honda Accord Touring Sedan can be fitted only with a light-duty 1-1/4-inch Class I hitch, such as Curt # C11496 or Curt # C11681. Both hitches require the use of a support strap # 18050.

Class I hitches have to be used with Class I accessories items, also the 1-1/4-inch size, to avoid having to use a hitch expander like # HT5R or # HTAD. Also, note that only 2 bikes can be carried on a Class I hitch even if the rack holds more than 2.

The trouble with such adapters is that they cause you to lose HALF of your hitch's rated tongue weight capacity, making a 200-lb-rated Class I hitch able to carry only 100-lbs. Adapters also tend to allow for more random motion and rattle when you drive. The reason adapters reduce your hitch rating is that they push the actual load further away from the hitch, which increases leverage on the hitch tube.

If you used either adapter your hitch would be able to handle only 100-lbs total, which means that the combined weight of the carrier and contents could not exceed 100-lbs.

A better and safer solution is to avoid adapters altogether by selecting Class I carriers that are directly compatible. This allows your hitch to retain its full 200-lb tongue weight rating. Class I cargo carriers and bike racks are linked for your review.

You will be able to carry the most cargo/bike weight by selecting lightweight carriers such as the Curt # C18145 cargo carrier and the Curt 2-Bike Rack # C18085.