How Can I use a 4 Bike Hitch Mounted Rack on a 2009 Explorer with Factory 1-1/4 Inch Hitch

Question:

Our 2009 Explorer has a 1 1/4 receiver, can we use an adapter to make 2 to 1 1/4#. Do you have any bike racks for 4 bikes that we could use the adapter. We really wanted your XTC4, but the said not to use the adapter with that rack. Thanks!

asked by: Kathy F

Expert Reply:

There are adapters available, like part # HTAD. However, these adapters reduce the tongue weight capacity of the hitch by 50 percent. The hitch on your Explorer is Class II, the tongue weight capacity would be 350 pounds. Cut that in half you are left with 175 pounds. Subtract from that the weight of the carrier, say 65 pounds for the XTC, you are left with 110 pounds capacity which would not be enough for the bikes and to compensate for the length of the rack.

Rather than using an adapter, itt would be better to either add a 2 inch hitch or find a 4 bike rack that will fit a Class II hitch. I have added a link below to all of the 4 bike rack options for a Class II hitch.

expert reply by: Patrick B