Will the Yakima RidgeBack 4 Fit a Class I Trailer Hitch and Hold 4 Bikes on 2012 VW Passat
Updated 02/26/2014 | Published 02/25/2014
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Question:
I currently own a Yakima RidgeBack 4 that I purchased. Is it not recommended to us this hitch with the rack and carry more than 2 bikes? The main intent is to carrying up 4 road bikes or 4 mountain bikes, for majority of the time 2 bikes will be carried. Is it a very bad choice to carry potentially 4 bikes on this hitch and rack?
asked by: Samir
Expert Reply:
Class I trailer hitches like # 24880 can only support 2 bikes even if the rack can hold more. The issue is not the weight of the bikes but how far the weight is from the receiver. A third or more bikes on a Class I hitch puts too much stress on the hitch and can result in loss of hitch and damage to the vehicle. It is like using a long bar to loosen a lug nut when changing a tire.
The Yakima RidgeBack, # Y02458, can fit a Class I trailer hitch but it would be limited to carrying 2 bikes at most.
Also with the Curt hitch, you have to use stabilization strap # 18050 because they require it for their warranty. The strap is designed to reduce some of the stress on the hitch.
If you want to carry 4 bikes then in addition to a hitch and bike rack you would also need a roof rack and roof mount bike racks. The most economical roof rack for the 2012 VW Passat is Rhino-Rack Euro style rack using the following parts:
Aero bars # RRVA126B-2
Feet # RRRLKVA
Custom clamp kit # DK323
Then for a compatible rack use # RBC035. I have included a link to a video review of the rack, a video showing installation of the trailer hitch, and instruction links for you.
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