Choosing Between 1-1/4 Inch or 2 Inch Trailer Hitch for 2018 Honda CR-V

Published 01/17/2019

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(1026)

$173.59

Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(331)

$549.00

Question:

Hey there! Looking for a hitch for my 2018 CR-V. I see a few different options and it looks like I could go with a 1-1/4 inch or a 2 inch size. It is just for a bike rack and maybe a cargo carrier down the line what is the difference between the two sizes? Which do you recommend?

asked by: Vivian

Expert Reply:

For your 2018 Honda CR-V I definitely recommend going with a 2 inch hitch receiver, specifically the etrailer.com Class III Trailer Hitch # E98848 because of its concealed design and the fact that it is made right here in the USA.

The primary difference between a 1-1/4 inch receiver and a 2 inch receiver is their weight capacities and Class ratings. A 2 inch receiver will have higher towing and tongue weight capacities than a smaller 1-1/4 inch model. The reason that I recommend going with a 2 inch receiver for your application even though you won't necessarily be using the higher towing capacity that it offers is because there are simply many more hitch-mounted accessories (like bike racks and cargo carriers) that are compatible with the larger receiver. The available options for a 1-1/4 inch receiver are much more limited.

The etrailer.com # E98848 features a tongue weight limit of 525 pounds and its crosstube will be hidden behind the rear bumper of your CR-V so that only the receiver itself is visible, allowing for a sleek OEM appearance.

I have attached an installation video that you can use for reference.

If you don't yet have a bike rack I recommend taking a look at the Kuat Transfer V2 # KU74FR. This is a really nice platform-style rack that will secure your bikes by the wheels without any frame contact and it features a spring-loaded foot pedal that allows you to easily tilt the carrier back for rear cargo access.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this bike rack that you can take a look at along with a link that will take you to our complete selection of hitch-mounted bike racks.