Recommended Trailer Hitch For 2016 Honda Accord Coupe For Carrying Bike Rack

Published 09/21/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver with 5" Rise

(549)

$108.46

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

(335)

$169.96

Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(164)

$899.95

Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(164)

$899.95

Question:

Do I have to cut out my bumper in order to use my Thule 2XT pro bike rack? I plant on purchasing Curt 1 1/4 hitch as well as part number HT5R. Just want to make sure I dont have to cut into my bumper. I drive a 2016 Honda Accord Sport Coupe

asked by: Jaafar

Expert Reply:

I have a different option for you, but I do not recommend using the Hitch Adapter # HT5R with the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11681 for your 2016 Honda Accord Sport Coupe as it will reduce the tongue weight rating of the hitch by 50% which will give you a 100lb tongue weight rating which is likely not enough. The Thule T2 Pro XTR # TH83JV you mentioned weigh 52lbs meaning you would only be able to carry 48lbs worth of bikes which is not much.

Along with that from the center of the hitch pin hole on the 1-1/4" part of the adapter to the closest edge of the receiver measures 3-1/2", and since that is the exact same measurement from the center of the hitch pin hole to the edge of the rear bumper with the # C11681 installed you will have contact between the adapter and your bumper.

Installing the hitch itself will not require trimming the bumper but you will need to trim a small part of the heat shield underneath the vehicle.

Instead of using an adapter I recommend going with a bike rack that is designed for a class I receiver. I recommend the Thule T2 Pro XTR # TH23JV as it has a 1-1/4" shank to fit directly into the Class I receiver on your 2016 Honda Accord meaning you will not have a reduced tongue weight. Since you will still have a full 200lbs of tongue weight and the bike rack weighs 51lbs that will allow you to carry a single bike weighing up to 60lbs or two bikes weighing up to 50lbs each which is the max the rack is designed for.

From the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest edge of the rack is 5" so you will have plenty of bumper clearance.

I included videos of the recommended products for you to take a look at.