Can I Use a Hitch Sleeve Reducer with the # HLY84FR to Fit a 1-1/4" Hitch?

Question:

Why cant you use a 1 1/4 to 2foot adapter on the hly74fr 2foot model Ive seen where you lose 50 capacity , dont see how with a 3500# rated adapter . Confused

asked by: Wally T

Expert Reply:

I think you are looking to use the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 2" Hitches # HLY84FR with an adapter to use in a 1-1/4" hitch receiver. As long as you use a hitch sleeve reducer like the Hitch Reducer 2" to 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver # HT02, you will not decrease your hitch's weight capacity by 50%. This is because the hitch reducer does not add an exceptional amount of length to the hitch compared to a longer adapter like the Hitch Adapter 2" to 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver - 7" Long # 80300.

If, however, you plan on using the combination 1-1/4" and 2" model of the rack Sport Rider SE # HLY74FR, this rack already comes with a shank adapter piece to fit both of those hitch sizes and does not require the use of # HT02.

As far as what capacity you should abide by, you always go with the lowest-rated component of your setup. For instance, if your vehicle has a tongue weight capacity of 600 pounds, a hitch that has a 300 pound total capacity, and a hitch extender with a hitch adapter that has a 500 pound capacity, you would abide by the weight capacity of the hitch (300 pounds).

If you need a hitch, feel free to respond to this answer with your year/make/model of vehicle.