Can I Use the Swagman Current # S64678 on a Class I 1-1/4" Hitch?

Published 05/29/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Swagman Current Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(244)

$494.12

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(827)

$36.12

Swagman Chinook Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(445)

$318.09

Fat Bike Adapter Kit for Swagman Quad 2+2, Dispatch, and Chinook Bike Racks

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Question:

I have a Draw Tite class 1 1 1/4 hitch on my Honda Accord. I know Swagman is recommending a class 2 or above for their platform bike carriers but will this fit in a class 1? Both out bikes are under 25 pounds each and max weight would be around 100 pounds with the rack way less than the 200 a class one supports. Not sure why they recommend a class 2 but will this fit? Thanks

asked by: John K

Expert Reply:

While we do have a great bike rack that is compatible with a Class I 1-1/4" hitch on your 2012 Honda Accord, you can't use the Swagman Current # S64678. This is because bike rack manufacturer specifically tests their racks under precise environmental conditions with a specific construction. With that being said, Swagman has only tested and verified that the Current is compatible with Class II 1-1/4" or 2" hitches only. Using a Class II rack on a Class I hitch can be extremely dangerous.

As a great alternative, I recommend the Swagman Chinook Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches # S64683. The Chinook has a 45-pound per bike weight capacity and is rated for use on a Class I 1-1/4" hitch. It also has the exact same wheelbase and wheel diameter compatibility as the Current. In order to make sure you have enough shank length on the Chinook to clear your rear bumper, I recommend measuring from the center of your hitch's pinhole to the outside face of your rear bumper. As long as that length is less than 6 inches, you are good to go!

If you happen to have fat bikes between 3-5 inches wide, you need the Fat Bike Adapter Kit # S64694 for each bike. Also, for women's-style frames, children's bikes, or step-thru frames, you need a bike frame adapter bar # 64005 for each of those bike styles. The adapter bar provides your bikes with a straight, horizontal plane required to mount to the arms of the Chinook.

I went ahead and attached some helpful videos for you to check out.