Which Hitch Adapter to Carry Bike Rack for 2 Inch Receiver on 2011 Chevy Malibu with Class II Hitch

Updated 11/10/2014 | Published 11/09/2014

Question:

I need a hitch adapter 1-1/4inch to 2 so I can put a bike rack with 2inch connection on a 2011 Chevy Malibu. Im trying to determine which adapters you carry will work. Two questions/needs: 1: I need to extend from my receiver hitch at least 7.5inch to clear the bumper from end of receiver. 2: The manufacturer of the bike rack states that the bike rack connection must extend at least 4-3/8inch into the 2inch receiver. Could you let me know which of the several hitch adapters you carry meet these criteria? Thanks

asked by: Markus P

Expert Reply:

The closest item we offer to the parameters you mentioned would be the Hidden Hitch 1-1/4 to 2 inch Hitch Adapter, part # 80304. The 1-1/4 inch portion of the adapter is 5 inches long. The distance from the hitch pin hole in the 1-1/4 shank and the hitch pin hole in the 2 inch receiver is 10 inches. This adapter will only work with a Class II hitch, which is what's likely on your Malibu.

Using the hitch adapter will reduce the tongue weight capacity (maximum amount of downward force that can be safely applied to your hitch) by half. If your hitch is a Class II with a 300 lb tongue weight capacity, using the adapter would reduce it to 150 lbs. This means that the bike rack plus the bikes placed upon it could weigh no more than 150 lbs.

Keep in mind that it's always the best practice to use a hitch accessory designed for the hitch your vehicle uses. The adapter adds additional stress to the receiver tube, and having an additional component installed can cause more bouncing of the bike rack when passing over bumps or rough pavement.

I'm linking you to a product demonstration video for the adapter.

expert reply by: Mike L