Will Hitch Adapter Keep Bike Rack From Scraping On 2020 Toyota RAV4
Updated 05/12/2026 | Published 05/11/2026
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Question:
I just purchased 2 e-bikes and a bike rack for a trailer hitch i just installed on my 2020 Toyota rav4. First day of using it i already scraped the tail end of my bike rack on a drive way. The bike rack and 2 e-bikes together weight roughly 245 lbs and the hitch installed is a 2 inch class 3. Would a hitch raiser help me in this situation? And if so what hitch adaptor will help? I dont understand much about trailer hitch weight, mostly driving on freeways, city streets, and the occasional dirt roads but not off roading. The fear i have is something breaking off and causing harm on the road way all because I didn’t understand what i was doing wrong.
asked by: Joseph
Expert Reply:
Hey Joseph! Yes, adding in a hitch adapter to raise up the bike rack will get you that extra clearance so you aren't scraping on a drive or other similar transitions.
The Patriot Hitches 2" Adjustable Drop Hitch Adapter # PH38PR you looked at is going to be the best option for this application. This is one of the few adapters that doesn't reduce your tongue capacity by 50% so your hitch and the adapter will be able to handle the weight of your e-bikes and bike rack.
I also recommend adding the etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Collar # e38FV. This will help cut down on the additional movement that comes with adding an adapter into the setup.
What kind of bikes are you carrying?
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on Hitch Adapter
Joseph
5/12/2026
We have Aventon brand bikes, Adventure M, Abound LR. There not the heaviest ebikes but they have some weight to them. Also would you recommend locking pins if so witch ones would you recommend for the patriot hitch adapter?