Does Curt Class II C12108 Trailer Hitch Require Stabilizing Strap For Bike Rack on 2015 Toyota RAV4

Question:

I am looking for a trailer hitch and bike carrier. Ive been reading some of the evals. and you guys get all 10s in customer service, something Im sure youre proud of. I WILL be buying from you after I make my decision. Now... does the Curt 1 1/4inch hitch C12108 require a stabilizer strap when transporting 2 or more bikes? Someone commented on that. thank you.

asked by: George

Expert Reply:

The warranty for the Curt # C12108 Class II trailer hitch stipulates that a stabilizing strap like # 18050 must be used for all non-trailer loads like bike racks, regardless of how many bikes are being carried. The strap would attach to the top of the rear hatch, but unfortunately the spoiler on the rear hatch would make the strap unsuitable for your vehicle. My fear is that the strap could damage the spoiler. Instead, I'd recommend the Curt Class II hitch, part # C12108. With this hitch you will also need to purchase the strap # 18050.

For a bike rack, you can't go wrong with the Thule Hitching Post Pro, part # TH934XTR. The Hitching Post Pro would allow you to carry up to 4 bikes using the hitch I recommended, providing Thule quality at a reasonable price.

If you'll be transporting women's bikes or bikes with sharply-angled top tubes, you might also consider a frame adapter bar like part # 64005. The bar spans the distance between the handlebar gooseneck and the seat post, which provides a secondary attachment point for the bike rack. This allows the bike to be carried level, which maximizes ground clearance. I'll link you to a video showing how the adapter bar works.

I've linked you to some installation and product demonstration videos for the parts I've recommended.