Does the Depth of a Hitchs Receiver Matter when Pairing it with Accessories

Updated 10/06/2020 | Published 10/05/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(69)

$194.32

Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Pearl

(588)

$759.00

Question:

Im wonder the depth of this hitch. I have a Kuat Sherpa 1 1/4 that measures 1 5/8inch from pin hole to the end of the rack. And a related general question: Do all class 1 hitches have a stop tab? And do all class 1 hitches have the same physical depth measurements?

asked by: John I

Expert Reply:

The depth of hitches have a universal standard for their classes. The weld stop in Class I hitches are there to prevent Class II accessories from going into them, which would overload the hitch. Bike racks like the Kuat Sherpa, part # SH12P, are built with this in mind. So, if your bike rack is rated for the same class as your hitch, the only dimension of the hitch's receiver you need to pay attention to is the square size (usually 1-1/4" or 2").

The Curt Trailer Hitch, part # C11064, will be able to handle your bike rack without a problem. It's a Class I hitch with a 1-1/4" receiver, which is perfectly compatible with the Sherpa. I've linked to a video installation of this hitch on a 2010 Honda Fit. Both the Sherpa 1.0 and 2.0 have the same classifications, so yours will work no matter which you have.

The Curt hitches do not have the weld stop in them, but they do require you to use the stabilizer strap # 18050 with bike racks or cargo carriers as an extra support.

expert reply by: Kef G