Kuat Sherpa Bike Rack Partially Melted from Exhaust When Folded

Updated 06/24/2020 | Published 06/23/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver with 5" Rise

(552)

$104.93

Roadmaster High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 4" Rise/Drop - 6K GTW, 200 lbs TW

(1577)

$94.86

Question:

I have a 2017 Volvo V 60 wagon with a 2” Draw-Tite hitch. I have the same issue as Jim with a Kuat Sherpa rack partly melting while in the up position. Doesn’t seem to be a problem when bikes in place. Would a 7” extension be long enough, or should I also try an adapter that raises it? I would like to be able to access the back of the wagon if possible. But I’d really like not to blow a bike tire or melt the rack in transit.

asked by: Jonathan C

Helpful Expert Reply:

You could use an adapter like the Roadmaster # RM-070 to achieve a 4 inch rise, which would work pretty well for you. Keep in mind that using an extender/adapter like this will lower the tongue weight capacity of the hitch by 50% due to the fact that the adapter would move the load further away from the vehicle and exert additional leverage on the hitch and its attachment points to the vehicle.

expert reply by: Mike L