Comparing 1-1/4" Curt Hitch Receiver To 2" eTrailer Hitch Receiver For 2025 Subaru Crosstrek

Updated 03/20/2025 | Published 03/15/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(171)

$230.58

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(677)

$16.44

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(1586)

$191.92

Question:

I have a Kuat tray-style bike rack and just got a 2025 Crosstrek, so I need to get a new hitch receiver. Im considering the eTrailer / Curt options C12184 or e98912. I see that the class II requires the use of a stabilizing strap, and while this class III receiver doesnt say it requires the strap, Curts product page for the strap says that its required for any bike rack with a 1-1/4inch shank. Does this mean that Id still need to use the strap if I adapted my 1.25inch shank bike rack to a 2inch Curt hitch receiver? Or does this only apply to 1.25inch hitch receivers? I bought a hitch mount bike rack because I didnt want anything rubbing on the paint of my car, so the strap defeats that purpose. However, I prefer the look of Curt hitches over Draw-Tite. Im just trying to figure out whats really required where. I appreciate any guidance you can provide.

asked by: Rachel M

Expert Reply:

Hey Rachel, few things here. First off, the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4" # C12184 does indeed need the stabilizing strap # 18050 on non-trailered loads like a bike rack to add in support. And to answer your other question, converting to 2" with an adapter does not change the fact that you have a 1-1/4" receiver and will be limited to the receiver's capacity and regulations.

That said, I cannot more strongly recommend going with a 2" receiver instead of 1-1/4" like that Curt hitch. The 2" opening will allow you to use so many more accessories and towing products and you won't be restricted to lower weight capacity either. The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e98912 is what I'd go with due to it being the larger size, but also since it has our matte black paint to blend in and look OEM on your vehicle. It's also a really great bang for your buck! Also, since you like Curt, you'll be happy to know that our hitches are the same as Curt, meaning they are the same material and built in the same factory, only difference is that ours has matte black paint instead. :)

Let me know what you think!

expert reply by: Andrew N