How to Determine if a Hitch Has Enough Tongue Weight for an E-Bike Using a Class 1 Hitch

Published 08/06/2022

Products Featured in This Question

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

(64)

$219.43

Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(515)

$1099.95

Question:

I have a 2004 Honda Accord and its limited to the Class 1, 1.25 hitch for a bike rack. I saw it has a tongue weight of 200 lbs. Is this the total weight of the rack plus the weight of the bike? I have an e-bike that weighs approx. 76 lbs. 68 lbs. if I remove the battery and bike rack weighing 29 lbs. So, would this setup work for my car? If not, can I use an anchor strap from the car trunk to the rack to help support the rack? Please let me know if there is a solution. Thanks

asked by: Victor L

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, a class 1 hitch set-up will work for your car, bike and bike rack.

A hitch like the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11327 that is confirmed to fit your 2004 Honda Accord EX will have a tongue weight capacity of 200 lbs. like you mentioned. The combined weight of your bike and bike rack is what will factor into this.

So, your bike weighing 76 lbs. and bike rack weighing 29 lbs. would be 105 lbs. This would leave you another 95 lbs. before you reach the capacity of your hitch. The main thing that would/could limit you would be the bike rack itself. You have plenty of weight with the hitch capacity but we do not have a bike rack that is class 1 compatible that will support a bike weighing that much.

The Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes # TH903202 is the highest rated bike rack we have for a class 1 hitch at 65 lbs.

expert reply by: Scott S