Can I Use a Bike Rack Hitch Adapter to Tow?
Updated 08/15/2019 | Published 08/14/2019
Question:
I have a bike rack that has is 1.25, but came with a spacer to adapt to a 2. My old car had the 1.25 hitch and so I purchased a 1.25 receiver for a ball hitch, but I see the 2inch is about $50 cheaper. So with the spacer I am debating the 1.25inch or the 2. Is it safe to tow light duty trailer on the 2inch with the spacer or should I just spend the extra $50 and get the 1.25? Thanks
asked by: Duane W
Expert Reply:
You likely won't be able to use the adapter that came with your bike rack on your ball mount for 2 reasons;
1) Since most of the adapters that come with bike racks are going to be secured with a threaded bolt that only works on shanks for those racks.
2) After checking with some of the bike rack manufacturers, these adapters aren't rated for towing applications and are typically only tested up to around 150-lbs
However, you could use a Hitch Reducer similar to # HT02 that will reduce the size on your hitch receiver from 2" down to 1-1/4" and allow you to safely tow your light duty trailer. The great thing about doing it this way is that the HT02 won't compromise the tongue weight or towing capacity of your hitch- you're still going to be limited to the 1500-lb capacity of the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, but you're not compromising the strength of your components.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hitch Reducer 2" to 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver
- Hitch Adapter
- Hitch Reducer
- Bike Racks
- Cargo Carriers
- Hitch Mounted Accessories
- No Extension
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 2 Inch to 1-1/4 Inch
- Brophy
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch that Fits 2026 Lexus RZ350e Electric
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Curt Rack Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"
- Shop: Swagman Current Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: The Low-Down on the Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Comparing Kenda KR03, KR35, And KR53 Tires
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Search Results: trailer lights
- Shop: etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Collar for 2" Hitch Receivers
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
on Hitch Adapter
