Comparing Curt and Draw-Tite Class II Trailer Hitch Receivers For a 2006 Subaru Forester

Published 04/05/2023

Products Featured in This Question

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

(683)

$18.45

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

(203)

$239.23

Question:

Hi, You have two hitches that fit my 2006 Subuaru Forester: The Draw-Tite and the CURT. In the video, two seemingly contradictory things are said about the CURT hitch: 1 - A message appears on screen saying that the CURT hitch requires a support strap. 2 - At the end of the video, the presenter says the CURT hitch max tongue weight is 350 lbs vs 300 for the Draw-Tite so its a beefier hitch. Ill be mounting a Thule bike carrier on my hitch. I really dont want to have to attach a strap to my car with the risk of the paint damage. My questions: 1 - Why does the stronger, stiffer hitch CURT require a stability strap, but the Draw-Tite does not? 2 - Does the CURT require a stability strap for ALL bike racks? If not, what rack styles require it, and what rack styles do not? Thanks in advance for your help on this. Im anxious to get on the road with my bike! Best

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

For the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C12038 which fits your 2006 Subaru Forester, Curt no longer requires you to use the Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap # 18050 with use on hitch mounted accessories. You will be able to use your class II bike rack with up to 350lbs of total weight on the Curt # C12038 or 300lbs on the Draw-Tite # 36311. These weight capacities are given from the manufacturer and I can not say exactly why one will be rated for a higher capacity than the other.

expert reply by: Bud M