Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2013 BMW X1

Updated 03/23/2013 | Published 01/17/2013

Products Featured in This Question

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

(42)

$244.87

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(679)

$16.44

Question:

HELLO, I HAVE A BMW X1 ON ORDER AND WANT TO INSTALL A RECEIVER HITCH ON THE VEHICLE FOR PURPOSES OF USING A BIKE RACK OFF THE BACK. I SEE THAT YOU SHOW A 2inch RECEIVER HITCH FOR THIS VEHICLE MADE BY CURT. A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS: 1. IM CONCERNED THAT A 2inch HITCH FOR THIS VEHICLE IS A BIT BULKY OR VISUALLY UNATTRACTIVE. DO YOU HAVE ANY PHOTOS OF THIS RACK THAT MIGHT GIVE ME AN IDEA OF WHAT THE RACK LOOKS LIKE INSTALLED? 2. THE X1 SEEMS TO BE RELATIVELY NEW TO THE US MARKET. DO YOU KNOW IF OTHER COMPANIES ARE IN THE PROCESS OF PRODUCING A 1.25inch RACK FOR THAT VEHICLE THAT MIGHT NOT BE SO BULKY.

asked by: TIM H

Expert Reply:

I have included a picture that shows what Curt hitch # C13140 looks like when installed on a BMW X1. The picture is from the instructions which I have also linked for you. As you can see the receiver opening is the only part visible beneath the rear fascia.

At this time none of the other manufacturers we carry have plans for a hitch for the 2013 X1. That could potentially change in the future.

The 2 inch receiver on the Curt hitch will provide you with many more bike rack options than a 1-1/4 inch hitch would. Given that the 2 inch is relatively unobtrusive, that would be the way that I would go if it were me looking for a hitch. Curt does require the use of a stabilization strap # 18050 for all non-trailer loads for this hitch. The strap reduces some of the stress on the hitch.

I have included a link to the bike racks we carry for 2 inch hitches. I will be happy to make a specific recommendation if you can tell me how many bikes you want to carry and what styles they are.

expert reply by: Michael H