Troubleshooting Bike Rack Weight Bending Class I Curt Hitch Down

Updated 09/04/2018 | Published 09/03/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(38)

$194.75

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

(668)

$15.80

Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Gunmetal Gray

(474)

$989.00

Question:

I purchased a trailer hitch from etrailer this past May for the sole purpose of carrying mountain bikes on the back of my car. Before proceeding, I verified that the rack I purchased top of the line Kuat NV2.0 plus weight of both bikes approx 110lb was within the range specified for this hitch for tongue weight 200lb. After about 1 month of use, I became concerned about the amount of bounce in the bikes, plus the appearance that my rack and bikes were tilted downward. I took it to another mechanic to double-check the quality of the installation, and he said the trailer hitch is mounted perfectly secure, however the frame of my car does not appear to support this much fulcrum weight. I have since removed the hitch and rack, leaving myself unable to use my vehicle for biking. Looking at your site today, I notice another person mention that the Draw-tite rack is much more rugged than the Kurt hitch, and he described the same problem I had, which resolved with the Draw-tite rack. Sadly, I had originally ordered the Draw-tite rack, but it was backordered, so I agreed to go with the Kurt rack. Is there a remedy here that will allow me to carry bikes again and be able to use my expensive Kuat rack?

asked by: Chris S

Expert Reply:

Were you using the required stabilizer strap part # 18050 when carrying your Kuat NV part # NV12G with the Curt hitch part # C11418? Curt requires you use this strap to basically help prevent the weight from damaging the hitch and vehicle like you were experiencing. Also, were you driving on any rough roads? You should note that none of the hitches or racks we offer will be able to withstand any off-roading. At this point though your frame is damaged to the point I would not recommend installing a hitch.

I attached a review video for the strap for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jameson C