Parts Needed To Mount A 4-Bike Bike Rack With A 2" Shank On A 1994 Jeep YJ

Updated 01/05/2026 | Published 09/12/2024

Question:

Good evening, I am looking for a 1.25” to 2” adapter in order to use a 4 bike bike rack on a 94 Jeep wrangler YJ. I want the 1.25” shank to be solid, and to have as little extension as possible because the rack has a good extension on it already and I don’t want to reduce my carrying capacity too much with all that leverage. The 1.25” shank on the adapter should preferably be no more than 2” from centre of pin to end of the shank. The 2” receiver on the adapter would preferably be 3.75” deep measured from centre of pin to end of the 2” shank. I don’t mind cutting down the 2” shank on the rack, but prefer not to cut down the 1.25” shank on the adapter unless necessary. I have attached a photo of my Jeep, and a photo of the bike rack from the Quadratec website. Please could you tell me which adapter you recommend? Thank you!

asked by: Richard H

94 Jeep YJ
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hi Richard,

Using a hitch adapter will reduce your trailer hitch's capacity by 50% and the use of an adapter isn't always allowed depending on the bike rack. You'll want to first check with the bike rack manufacturer if they allow for an adapter to be used, otherwise the rack could potentially fail and drop your bikes on the road.

Swapping out your 1-1/4" hitch for a 2" hitch like the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98859 would be the safest option for hauling your bike rack/bikes.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Jerred H.

1/5/2026

Hey Richard, were you able to check with the bike rack manufacturer about using an adapter on your Jeep? Knowing what you found could help others trying to carry heavier racks safely. Your update could make it easier for the next person with the same setup.

Richard H.

1/5/2026

@JerredH Hi Jerred I don’t think I did check with the manufacturer. A friend of mine in the U.S. picked up an adapter for me and I’ve been using it successfully (and regularly) for about a year now, though I am careful not to overload it. I generally only use 1 bike on the rack, but have used 2 several times and 3 on a few occasions. I use it mostly for fairly heavy bikes like mountain bikes. I wouldn’t be concerned about putting 3 or 4 lightweight road bikes on there.