Is Curt Stabilization Strap Needed for Platform Bike Racks or Just Hanging Bike Racks

Updated 07/08/2014 | Published 07/05/2014

Question:

Do you need this strap for hitch mounts when using platform bike racks or just hanging as shown in the installation video? If needed for platform, how do you attach it?

asked by: Ben

Expert Reply:

For Curt trailer hitches that have the warning regarding the use of stabilization strap # 18050 the warning is for any and all non-trailer loads. This would include platform style bike racks. How to attach the strap is the challenge. It doesn't have to be # 18050 just as long as whatever is used is rigid, so you couldn't use a bungee cord or anything with elasticity.

Ideally you would attach the strap somewhere on the rack and then to the vehicle up higher than where it is attached on the rack. Of course you can avoid using a strap completely by using a different brand hitch such as Draw-Tite hitch # 24965 for a 2013 Hyundai Sonata.

expert reply by: Michael H