Will Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Work With Curt 1-1/4 Hitch on 2020 Mazda CX-5

Updated 08/25/2021 | Published 08/24/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(100)

$193.19

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

(588)

$759.00

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

(588)

$759.00

Question:

Hi, Im considering ordering a Kurt Sherpa 2.0 to use with a Curt Class II 1.25 inch hitch on a 2020 Mazda CX-5. Is there enough bumper clearance for this bike rack model? Also, is exhaust heat on the bikes a concern with this setup? If so, do you recommend something else? thanks!

asked by: Cat

Expert Reply:

Excellent questions, and I'll certainly get into the explanations, but let me start by just quickly saying that the set up you asked about is going to work beautifully; the Sherpa 2.0 and Curt hitch for your 2020 Mazda CX-5 are compatible and there are no clearance issues to worry about. That said, here are the part numbers for the hitch and Sherpa combo for your '20 CX-5:

- Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C12170

- Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Bike Rack - Gray # SH12G or Black # SH12B

The Curt hitch # C12170 does have a 1-1/4" receiver, and the Sherpa 2.0 # SH12G and # SH12B both have a 1-1/4" shank, so they are compatible in that regard. As far as clearances go, when we test fit this hitch on a '20 CX-5 we found the measurement from the hitch pin to the edge of the bumper was just 4-1/2". The Sherpa measures 11" from the hitch pin to the closest part of the rack when folded down (which means in position to carry your bikes) and 7-1/2" to the closest part of the rack when folded up.

So that's more then enough bumper clearance, and as far as the exhaust, the Sherpa 2.0 will be extended so far past the exhaust on your Mazda that it won't be affected. This would be the exact set up I would have recommended for you had you just asked for the best option, so you made a great choice. The Sherpa 2.0 is my favorite bike rack we offer due to how easy it is to use, its integrated security features (locks for the bike and rack), and its exceptional style.