Hitch Adapter For Platform-Style Bike Rack For Audi A5 With Class l Hitch

Updated 11/17/2014 | Published 11/15/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 6" Rise/Drop - 10K GTW, 400 lbs TW

(1561)

$201.72

CR Brophy Hitch Extender for 1-1/4" Hitch Receivers - 5-3/4" Long

(110)

$81.99

Question:

I am looking for a hitch extension/riser to attach a Thule T2 bicycle rack to my Audi A5. The ground clearance from my 1 1/4inch hitch to the ground is 7 inches and the bike rack requires at least 12 inches of vertical clearance. Also it must have at least 4 inches of horizontal extension to clear the bumper. I greatly appreciate any advice you can give me.

asked by: Dean T

Expert Reply:

Using a hitch adapter in the receiver on your Audi A5 will reduce the weight capacity of the hitch by 50 percent. You will want to check your owner's manual or with your dealership to see what the tongue weight capacity for your A5 is. Tongue weight includes the bike carrier weight added to the weight of the bike(s) you plan on carrying.

The Thule T2 Platform-Style 2 Bike Carrier, part # TH9045 is designed so that it can be used in a Class l or Class ll hitch with a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. The carrier measures 18 inches from the center of the hitch pin to the closest bike rail and 3-1/2 inches when folded up.

If you find you can use a hitch adapter, I recommend the Brophy Hitch Extender, part # hes6. This is designed to fit 1-1/4 inch receivers and extends the hitch pin hole an additional 6 inches, but as I mentioned using an extender will reduce the weight capacity by 50 percent.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L