Compatibility of Hitch-Mount Platform Bike Rack S64670 with Recessed Hitch on 2006 Impala

Question:

I have an 2006 impala with a Reese Towpower recessed hitch. The face of the hitch is 5+ to the face of the bumper and 7+ to the bolt hole. Will the Swagman xtc 2 clear the bumper? If not, what do you recommend in the same price range? There is so much on your site, its pretty hard to find what ssues I will have with fitment unless you can see it mounted on my car and my hitch. There is also questions on how the bikes handle on the carrier on highway conditions. I have a 25inch frame road bike. My wife has a stepthrough comfort bike. Thanks for your help.

asked by: Dave H

Expert Reply:

I understand your concern about proper clearance between the bike rack and rear bumper on your 2006 Chevrolet Impala. That is why we provide a clearance measurement on all of our hitch racks that tells you the amount of space needed from the hitch pin hole (that's always the reference point)
to the nearest part of the rack. In fact we have an article that illustrates this measurement and I have linked it for you just for reference.

In the case of the Swagman XTC-2 2-Bike Platform Rack # S64670 there is 8-inches of room between the hitch pin hole on the shank and the nearest wheel hoop. This means the rack itself will just clear your bumper if your hitch tube-to-bumper distance is 5-inches. You'll have to consider the width of the two bikes to decide if this will be enough space for either bike to fit satisfactorily in the front set of wheel hoops.

Your wife's bike may need an adapter bar to allow the ratcheting hook on these rack to have something to hold onto. An adapter bar like those shown on the linked page connects between the seat and handlebar posts to provide a level surface for the hook. Swagman's Easy-Out # 64005 is one such item.

All hitch bike racks will exhibit some motion when you drive. There is no rack that will remain completely motionless on the road. You can easily reduce this amount of random motion by using a simple support strap, such as # 18050.

expert reply by: Adam R