Installing Curt Stabilizing Straps when Hauling Non Trailer Loads with a Class 1 Hitch

Updated 07/16/2026 | Published 07/06/2026

Products Featured in This Question

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

(677)

$16.44

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

(4)

$185.61

Question:

Hello, I just ordered a Curt Class 1 hitch and a Kuat Beta bike rack for my 2012 Scion tC. Just noticed that the installation instructions state that additional straps Part 18050 should be installed as well and Im wondering if you can confirm where they should be hooked to the car and to the rack or hitch.

asked by: Corey R

Expert Reply:

Hey Corey,

Thanks for your question!

Curt recommends using the Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap # 18050 with any non-trailer load when using a Class I hitch. As you mentioned, it's specifically called out in the installation instructions for the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11087.

The # 18050 attaches between your hitch-mounted accessory and your vehicle. The looped end wraps around a secure point on your bike rack, while the hooked end attaches to a solid edge or channel near the top of your trunk or rear hatch. The two ends are then connected using the cam buckle, allowing you to tighten the strap.

Once tensioned, the strap helps reduce the up-and-down movement of the bike rack while you're driving. This minimizes stress on both the hitch and the accessory.

I've also included an installation video that demonstrates how the strap is used with a bike rack.

Out of curiosity, what type of riding do you do most—road, gravel, trails, or mountain biking?

expert reply by: Christopher H

Corey R.

7/13/2026

Thanks for the explanation and video, Christopher! (By the way, most of the riding I do is road and trail riding).

Christopher H.

7/13/2026

@CoreyR You're welcome. Have fun out there!

Edh

7/14/2026

Hello Corey We ran the strap from the bike rack to the top of the rear hatch of our Tucson. we noticed with 3 bikes on the rack it tends to bounce alike bit. We applied the strap and it provided the support needed to stop the bounce. Hope this helps.

Christopher H.

7/14/2026

@Edh Happy to hear the # 18050 gave you the additional support you needed.

Susan

7/15/2026

We purchased the strap, but stopped using it after a few trips because it seemed to loosen while our vehicle (RAM 2500 van) was in motion. (We attached the strap to he top of one of the back doors of the van.)