Can a Bike Rack for 2-Inch Hitch Be Adapted for a 1-1/4-Inch Hitch

Question:

I have a 2 inch bicycle rack from a previous SUV that I owe. Im looking to buy a used SUV and like the old Foresters. I was looking at a 2006 Subaru Forester that I like. However, on your website it only fits a 1 1/4 inch hitch. Can I fit a 2 inch hitch on this car? If not, is there a product that converts a 1 1/4 inch to a 2 inch hitch? I dont plan to haul anything heavy, but only want the hitch for my bike rack. Thanks.

asked by: Spencer L

Expert Reply:

You are correct that all of the trailer hitches we offer for the 2006 Subaru Forester are 1-1/4-inch Class II types. These cannot directly accept a hitch-mount bike rack intended for 2-inch hitches, although many bike racks are designed to be compatible with both sizes. Without knowing what rack you have I cannot say whether this is the case for you.

If your bike rack is the type that fits only a 2-inch hitch, then the ideal solution is to choose a new rack that will fit your Forester's 1-1/4-inch hitch. I have included a link to all bike racks that will fit this size.

It is possible to use a hitch adapter to mate the 2-inch rack to the 1-1/4-inch hitch but we do not recommend this practice because use of ANY adapter cuts your hitch capacity in HALF. For example, Brophy # HTAD or one of the other adapters linked allows a 2-inch rack to be used with a 1-1/4-inch hitch but the typical 300-lb tongue weight capacity of such hitches will then be reduced to 150-lbs. This can be done but it is better to choose a rack that directly fits your new vehicle's hitch. If you do decide to use an adapter then I urge you to add a stabilizing strap # 18050 to help support the rack and hitch.

expert reply by: Adam R