Why Cant Class II Bike Racks be Used On a Class I Hitch?

Updated 07/05/2023 | Published 07/03/2023

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EcoHitch Invisi Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"

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Question:

I was looking at the Yakima OnRamp bike ramp. The description for the 1-1/4 version says it has to be Class II. I have a 2018 Chevy Volt and really dont want to spend $500 on a Class II hitch. The Draw-Tite Class I is rated at 200lbs. tongue weight. If the rack loaded with my two bikes is only around 150lbs, why cant I use the Class I hitch? Thanks.

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

The reason you can't use a class II bike rack like the Yakima OnRamp Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes # Y96FR on class I trailer hitches is because most hitch manufacturers design their class I hitches to not accept class II accessories so that the hitch is not overloaded, as class II hitches have higher weight ratings.

What you may not be accounting for is the weight of the bike rack as well, so while your bikes might weigh 150 lbs total the rack itself might weigh over 50 lbs which would put you over.

For instance, the OnRamp you're looking at weighs 61 lbs so that'd put you at around 211 lbs (bikes included) which would overload your hitch.

Realistically since your bikes are pretty heavy you're going to need to upgrade your hitch to a class II with something like the EcoHitch Invisi Trailer Hitch Receiver # 306-X7338. I know you'd rather not, but you aren't going to be able to haul your bikes in a bike rack without a beefier hitch.

expert reply by: Bryce D