Can 2 e-Bike Rack Be Used on 2012 Kia Optima  

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Expert Reply:

As you probably noticed, there are only two trailer hitches available for your 2012 Kia Optima and both are Class I models with a 1-1/4" receiver. Between the two options I recommend the Curt # C11025 because of its superior powder coat finish that will do a better job of resisting rust and corrosion over time.

Trailer hitch manufacturers typically try to match up the hitch size/capacity to the capacities on the vehicle(s) they are designed to fit. This helps to keep customers from potentially overloading the vehicle. This is the simple answer as to why there isn't a larger 2" hitch available for your Kia Optima.

With this in mind the only way to use a 2" bike rack like The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HLY74FR that you referenced is with a hitch expander like # HTAD. The drawback though of a hitch adapter like this is that it will reduce the tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch by 50 percent.

This means the 200 pound tongue weight capacity on the above-mentioned Curt Class I hitch will be reduced to 100 pounds, making this setup unrealistic since the Hollywood Racks bike rack by itself weighs 51 pounds.

Now we do have a selection of bike racks available that are designed to support heavier e-bikes and can be used on Class I 1-1/4" receivers. I specifically recommend the Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202 that uses a nice clamp-style attachment to the bikes with adjustable padded clamps and can secure two bikes that weigh up to 65 pounds each. Locks are also included to help deter theft.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this rack that you can check out, along with a link that will take you to our complete selection of e-bike racks that can be used with a Class I hitch on your Optima.

expert reply by: Chris R

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