Recommended High Low Adapter for a Yakima Stagetwo Bike Rack

Updated 12/01/2023 | Published 11/30/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 8" Rise/Drop - 10K GTW, 400 lbs TW

(1636)

$201.20

Question:

I have a 2023 Ford Bronco Wildtrak. I just purchased the Yakima Stage 2 rack and the extension to clear the spare tire. After installing it, everything feels sturdy but I cannot open the tailgate because the spare tire hits the rack when no bikes are loaded. I really don’t want to go with the swing away option so I was looking at the your high/low adapters. I was wondering what you would recommend for complete clearance when the rack is unloaded?? My guess is 6” to maybe 8” I haven’t measured it yet. I figured since you did a review that maybe you have the measurements and ideal recommendation. And will that type of adapter mess with the bike rack load capacity?? I know clearance will be affected, especially with a 8” , but I live in SoCal and mainly looking at the hitch for convenience of loading and unloading the back with the rack on. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you in advance.

asked by: James R

Expert Reply:

If you've already got an extension that pushes the rack out to clear your spare tire you aren't going to be able to add a second adapter.

We don't recommend using two hitch adapters at the same time because not only does it reduce the weight capacity of the hitch even more (more than the 50% from using one adapter), it can also be dangerous for other motorists.

I'd recommend just using a taller high low adapter like the Roadmaster High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars # RM-048-8 which has 8" of rise and drop, and measures 10" long.

The closest part of the rack to the center of the hitch pin hole is 5 1/2", so with this extension/high-low adapter, it'll push the rack out an additional 10" and then up or down 8" depending on your configuration.

expert reply by: Bryce D