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

Updated 09/18/2024 | 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