Availability of 2-Inch Hitch for 2011 Toyota Camry Non-Hybrid SE

Updated 06/04/2014 | Published 06/02/2014

Question:

I have a 2011 Camry. I want to use the 4 bike rack that I had for my 4 runner but I think it requires a 2inch opening. The ones for a canary are 1.25 Can I buy a hitch for a 2inch for my Camry

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

We offer one hitch for your 2011 Toyota Camry Non-Hybrid SE, part # 36416 from Draw-Tite. This is a Class II hitch with a 1-1/4-inch receiver opening. No 2-inch hitches are offered for your 2011 Camry. This is because hitch makers base their hitch sizes and weight capacities on the structural strength of the vehicle's frame, where the hitch mounts. In the case of your 2011 Camry the frame structure is strong enough to handle the load of a Class II hitch, but not the load typical of a 2-inch Class III hitch. The linked article on hitch classes may be helpful.

There are hitch size adapters that will allow a 2-inch accessory like a bike rack to be used in a 1-1/4-inch hitch, however ALL of these adapters have the unfortunate side-effect of reducing your hitch capacity by 50-percent. This reduction in hitch capacity occurs because the adapter changes the geometry of the hitch/rack system, much like slipping a length of pipe over a tire iron gives you far greater leverage to loosen a lug nut. If for example you had Draw-Tite hitch # 36416, which by itself has a 300-lb tongue weight rating, use of an adapter would leave you with only 150-lbs capacity.

A better solution is to select a new rack that is designed to fit a 1-1/4-inch hitch without need for an adapter. This will let you keep your hitch's entire capacity. The link provided will let you see all Class II racks that can carry 4 bikes. You will want to choose a rack that clears the rear of your Camry; the linked article on hitch racks explains how to measure to confirm a good fit.

expert reply by: Adam R