Hitch Recommendation that will fit 1-1/4 and 2 inch Hitch Sizes

Question:

Hello. I just ordered a class 2 hitch with a 1.25inch receiver as well as a class 3 hitch for a different vehicle because I had seen the hitch adapters for use with bike racks...obviously the idea was to be able to install a class 3 on the larger vehicle but still just have to purchase 1 bike rack. When I went to the local store to ask a few questions and get more information about the bike racks I was interested in, I was told that they are ONLY compatible with a 2inch hitch. Knowing I had seen these adapters, I went to the Thule website and they very clearly state that unless the rack says it is compatible with a 1.25 AND a 2inch hitch, then it can ONLY be used with what it is listed for. They stated that some companies make adapters but they do not recommend the use nor do they warrant their product if used with a hitch adapter. If this is the case, are the manufacturers of the adapters willing to warrant against damage to the hitch/ bike rack/ and bikes in the event of failure? I have read the posts that state that the tongue weight is reduced by 50 with the use of an adapter...I hope this isnt an issue as well and it wouldve been nice if that had been clear when reading about the adapters. Had I known all of this, I likely wouldve gotten a class 2 hitch for both vehicles rather than having to buy 2 separate bike racks.

asked by: Regina

Expert Reply:

There are some accessories that are compatible with hitch adapters, and there are some that are not like you mentioned. The manufacturers of the adapters will not assume the responsibility of the misuse of their product.

Your best option at this point would be to go with a hitch mounted bike rack that can fit either hitch size.

The Swagman XTC2, part # S64670 is one of the most popular racks because it's so easy to use, and because the rack has an angled shank that would raise the bike rack up by three inches providing additional ground clearance. Because of that, and the fact that this rack fits both hitch sizes, this is the rack I'd recommend for you. The rack includes an anti-rattle hitch bolt, but a combination anti-rattle hitch lock/cable lock is available separately as part # S64031.

expert reply by: Jameson C