Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack to Carry Adult Trike on 2000 Ford Explorer

Updated 08/18/2020 | Published 08/17/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(11)

$229.68

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(87)

$228.45

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(23)

$19.18

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(19)

$58.53

Detail K2 Mighty Multi A-Frame Utility Trailer - 7-1/2' Long - 1,640 lbs

(9)

$2086.93

Question:

1st time buyer of a trailer Hitch. Need a trailer Hitch to carry Bike Rack for an Adult Trike. vehicle is a 2000 Ford Explorer, notice the Curt trailer Hitch, does not allow the spare to remain, As I am a senior female want to travel, need the spare tire available. Also I need the hitch and parts to possible pull a small trailer, however thats in the future. Right now need the right hitch for the Trike Can you help? In Albany, GA and will need it installed do you have recommendations on getting it installed?

asked by: Gwendolyn R

Expert Reply:

Even though we don't have any bike racks to carry your trike, I do have a solution for you. You can add a hitch and a small utility trailer.

First the hitch, you could use the Curt # 13540 or Curt # C13106 hitch. Both allow you to keep your full size spare tire in place. I included links to both of these. As they are similarly priced, I recommend the Curt # 13540 because it is a little easier to install. This "hitch" gets you the part that bolts onto your Explorer frame and the 2" square tube "receiver" that you will see just under the center of the back bumper.

Then you could use your hitch to pull a small utility trailer like the Detail K2 # K2MMT4X6 or the # K2MMT5X7.

Finally, you will need some straps like the Erickson Ratchet Tie-Down Straps w/ Web Clamps and S-Hooks - 1" x 10' - 500 lbs - Qty 4 # EM31352 to secure your trike.

If you decide go the trailer route, you only need to add a trailer lights wiring kit to your Explorer. First, find out if your Explorer may be prewired for trailer lights from the factory. Check under the rear of the vehicle near the lights for the plug. You can see what it looks like in the attached picture. If you are prewired you can simply use our Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C55241. If you do not find the factory plug you will need the full wiring kit, Curt # C55345. The Curt wiring harnesses are well made and easy to use.

Finally, you asked if we had recommendations for an installer near Albany, GA. I would think that most any car mechanic shop could handle this. Most of our customers install these themselves with the included instructions, so I am sure any shop would be happy to do it.

Happy Cycling!