Class I Trailer Hitch Mount Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2009 Toyota Matrix

Question:

I just purchased a draw tite hitch and installed it on my 2009 toyo matrix. It is a 1 1/4 hitch. The yakima bike rack can hold 4 bikes is a 1 1/4. I used it on a trailer hitch years back. My other 2 vehicles are 2. I bought a converter for the rack to fit the 2. However, this new hitch from etrailer has the dimple that does not allow the rack to slide in far enough to the in. The whole is in view but needs to go another 1/4 inch to completely line up allowing the pin to be ed. Please help me know what to do. Thanks.

asked by: Ray J

Expert Reply:

The reason your hitch on your 2009 Toyota Matrix has a dimple is because all Class I hitches feature this dimple. And your Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4 inch, part # 24812, is a Class I hitch.

The reason your bike rack shank does not have a dimple in it is because it is a Class II hitch accessory and is designed to only be used on Class II hitches. The dimple is a safety feature that is installed onto Class I hitches to prevent Class II accessories and drawbars from being installed and potentially damaging the weaker structure of the Class I hitch.

The reason I know your bike rack is a Class II rack is because the only 4 bike hitches that fit a 1-1/4 inch hitch are Class II racks. The reason Class I hitches can not carry more than 2 bikes is that they cannot handle the additional torque on the frame from the additional weight of the 2 extra bikes out so far out.

It looks like you will need to purchase a Class I bike rack if you want to haul bikes with your 2009 Toyota Matrix. I would recommend the Thule Helium Aero 2 Bike Carrier for 1-1/4 inch and 2 inch Hitches - Tilting - Hitch Mount, part # TH9042PRO. This rack can be used on hitches that are from Class I - Class III. I have included instructions in a link below as well as review video that you might find informative.

Another option you have is to go with a Curt Trailer Hitch for the 2009 Toyota Matrix, part # 12221. This hitch is a Class II hitch and would accept your Class II hitch bike rack. You should consult the owners manual of your Toyota Matrix to determine what the max tongue weight your vehicle can handle and always use the lowest weight capacity of your towing setup as your overall towing capacity.

expert reply by: Jameson C