How to Use the Thule T2 Bike Rack with a 2-1/2 Inch Trailer Hitch

Updated 05/20/2020 | Published 05/04/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Brophy Hitch Reducer and Extender - 2-1/2" to 2" Trailer Hitch - 7" Long

(316)

$142.71

Curt Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-3/16" Span

(2939)

$9.46

etrailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - Flush - 3-5/8" Span - Chrome

(3605)

$26.63

Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(164)

$1549.90

Question:

I have a thule t2 Pro bike carrier 2 inch. I just bought a truck with 2.5 inch hitch. The problem Im finding is most hitch reducers have to use through pins but the thule does not have through holes. Id like the brophy 2.5 to 2 inch extension reducer but am wondering how far into the extension does the 2 inch reducer go? Do you need a pin in the reducer to keep it from coming out or is it fixed to the extension. Thanks

asked by: Ben

Expert Reply:

You are on the right track. The only way we have that will allow you to use the Thule T2 Pro Xtr Bike Platform Rack part # TH69TX with the 2.5" receiver tube opening on your truck would be with adapter. For this, I recommend the Brophy Hitch Reducer and Extender part # HR26. This adapter offers both a reducer from 2.5" to 2" and an extension of 7" from the center of each hitch pin hole. This 7" extension will have more than enough room for the shank of the T2 to securely rest inside. It will also provide you with enough distance to open the tailgate on most pickup trucks. In order to secure the reducer inside the trucks receiver tube opening, you will need a hitch pin and for this you can use part # C21510 for standard or part # e98881 for locking.

Please keep in mind that using this adapter will reduce the tongue weight capacity of the hitch/vehicle by 50% but this should not be an issue with the 2.5" hitch you have on your truck now. It's also not recommended by Thule so that may put you at odds if there are ever warranty concerns.

expert reply by: Conner L

Jesse G.

5/11/2020

Will the Brophy Hitch Reducer and Extender #HR26 work with my Yakima DrTray 2-Bike 2" Hitch Rack? I think I'll also need the Malone Anti-Rattle HitchLock System #MPG908? I appreciate any help, Jesse

Chris R.

5/11/2020

The Brophy Hitch Reducer # HR26 will physically work with the Yakima Dr. Tray Bike Rack. The Malone # MPG908 is a GREAT idea to stabilize the adapter's connection point. The only thing I want to note about this setup is that Yakima doesn't particularly like adapters being used with their racks - using any kind of hitch adapter (reducer/extender included) will actually void its warranty. Unfortunately there's not really an alternate solution here (assuming you already have the Dr Tray), but it's something you'll just want to keep in mind.

Jesse G.

5/12/2020

@ChrisR Thanks Chris! Yes, I do already have a Yakima Dr Tray but might consider selling. Has the Thule T2 Classic 2 Bike Platform Rack part # TH9044 approved the use of the Brophy Hitch Reducer and Extender part # HR26. If so, I assume there is NO void in their warranty.