Recommended Trailer Hitch for 2015 Ford C-Max for Bike Rack with 2 Inch Shank

Question:

Hello, I have just purchased a 2015 Ford CMAX and have a Thule platform bike rack for 2 bikes with an extension for 4 if needed. It has a 2x2inch hitch. I understand that I need to purchase a class III hitch receiver to accommodate a 2inch opening. Due to weight, would the 2015 CMAX be able to handle this hitch if I just used the bike rack for 2 bikes? And if I wanted to add the extension for 4 bikes, would that be too heavy? Thank you

asked by: Sharon R

Helpful Expert Reply:

I do have a solution for you, however all of the available trailer hitches that are confirmed to fit your 2015 Ford C-Max are Class I and Class II hitches that have a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening.

Starting with the trailer hitch, I recommend the Curt Class II Receiver Hitch # C12092. This is custom-fit for your C-Max and will provide a 350 pound tongue weight capacity. Keep in mind that some drilling will be required during installation and the exhaust will need to be temporarily lowered.

Then to use your Thule Bike Rack that is designed for 2 inch receiver openings, you can use a hitch adapter like the Brophy # HTAD. This will convert the 1-1/4 inch opening on the trailer hitch to a 2 inch opening to be compatible with your bike rack.

Keep in mind that the use of this or any other similar adapter is going to reduce the hitch's tongue weight capacity by 50%. This means that when using the adapter, the 350 pound tongue weight capacity on the Curt trailer hitch will be reduced to 175 pounds. As long as you remain under this capacity with your rack and bikes, this will be perfectly safe to use on your vehicle. Whether or not you will be able to use the extension for loading up to 4 bikes will just depend on their total weight.

I have included demonstration videos on the products mentioned for you to check out.

expert reply by: Chris R