Bike Rack for E-Bikes on 2020 Acura RDX With 1-1/4" Receiver

Updated 09/02/2025 | Published 08/11/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Hollywood Racks Crosstrack Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(2)

$699.52

Loading Ramp for Hollywood Racks Crosstrack Bike Racks

(8)

$99.99

Loading Ramp for Kuat Piston Pro and Piston Pro X Bike Rack

(41)

$129.00

Kuat Piston Pro Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(20)

$1289.00

Thule Foldable Loading Ramp for Bike Racks

(19)

$99.90

Thule Epos Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel or Frame Mount

(36)

$1199.95

Question:

I have a 2020 Acura RDX and had a hitch installed at dealer when I bought it. Don’t remember them giving me an option on what size of hitch to put on. They put a 1 1/4 hitch on it and it works fine, but we just recently bought E-bikes that weigh 39 pounds each. I noticed on another question that you answered you mentioned that the hitches are rated class 1, 2, or 3. I don’t know what mine is rated since the dealer never told me and I just wanted to be able to haul my bikes. I’ve had friends tell me to buy a 2” extension for my 1 1/4 inch hitch. I’d prefer not to add anymore weight to the hitch if I don’t have to. Could you point me out to a rack that would work fine with my 1 1/4 inch hitch and can support my 2 E-bikes that weigh 39lbs each. I would prefer a rack that has the wheel locking mechanism. Thank You

asked by: Mike L

Expert Reply:

Hi Mike; I don't see any information out there on that 1-1/4" hitch to indicate if it is a Class I or Class II. The issue with Class I hitches can be the depth of the receiver. Sometimes they're blocked off at the back so you need something that is Class I compatible if that is the case. Take a look at the capacity of the hitch (it should be listed on the actual hitch). A Class I will likely be listed as 1,500 lbs towing/150 lbs tongue weight. Also, you don't want to use an extender/adapter since it cuts your capacity by 50%.

Assuming it is Class II the Hollywood Racks Crosstrack Bike Rack # HLY67RR you looked at will work. It has a capacity of 66 lbs per bike and weighs 66 lbs so you won't go over the capacity of the hitch with the bikes and bike rack installed. This does use a wheel mount and comes with a cable lock and hitch pin lock to keep everything secure. It looks like the promo with the ramp you were looking at is over so the ramp would have to be purchased separately # HLY39RR.

If you want to stick with this style and need a hitch that is Class I compatible, or if you just want to play it safe because you aren't sure, the Kuat Piston Pro Bike Rack for 2 Bikes # KU66ZR will also work. This weighs 60 lbs and has a capacity of 60 lbs per bike so once again it won't be over the capacity of the hitch. This also comes with locks but if you want a ramp it is separate # KU63VR.

If you're ok with a different mounting style my favorite bike rack for e-bikes is the Thule Epos # TH99XE. This is Class I compatible and uses a telescoping mast with ratchet straps to hold your bike by the rear wheel, frame, or seat post. This is especially nice for step-through designs. This can hold 70 lbs per bike and is incredibly light at 38.1 lbs. It also folds up nicely making it easy to carry around/store. There are locks on the masts and on the receiver, a ramp once again is separate # TH43VA.

Where do you plan to go with your e-bikes once you get your new bike rack?

expert reply by: Robin H

Hollywood Racks Crosstrack
(click to enlarge)

Thule Epos
(click to enlarge)

Robin H.

9/2/2025

Hi Mike, did you get a chance to check the capacity on your hitch to determine if it's Class I or II? I'm curious to know which bike rack you decided on and how it's working out for your e-bikes. Your experience could really help others in a similar situation!