Purpose of Stabilizing Straps Used with Curt Class I Receiver for 2008 Nissan Maxima  

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On their Class I, II and some of their Class III receiver hitches, Curt requires the use of a stabilizing strap like part # 18050. The strap is designed to provide extra support for bike racks and other non-trailer loads, and is sold separately. The strap consists of a plastic coated steel hook on one end that would slip over the front edge of the trunk or hatch lid, and the other end would loop around the bike rack. If you click on the provided link, you can see a video that illustrates how the strap is used.

You will need to make sure to use a bike rack that is designed for use in a Class I hitch. The hitch manufacturers will punch or weld a stop into the receiver tube that prevents the use of accessories that are meant for use in a Class II receiver. This is done because a Class I receiver has a lower tongue weight capacity (typically 200 lbs) than a Class II receiver, which is typically 300 lbs. Because of this limited capacity, bike racks used in a Class I receiver will be limited to carrying two bikes only. Placing additional bikes on a rack will place the load too far from the receiver opening, and would place additional leverage on the receiver that could damage the hitch or its attachment points to the vehicle.

I have linked you to our selection of Class I compatible bike racks.

expert reply by: Mike L

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