Compatibility of Hitch Adapters in Class I Hitch on 2011 Mini Countryman

Question:

I am looking at the hitch for a 2011 countryman I want to put a bike rack on it I have a bike rack with a 2inch hitch and I have an adapter to reduce it to 1 1/4 The bike rack and the two bikes weigh less than 100 pounds. However the notes say something a bout a tab and only using class 1 accessories will this work with the hitches you folks sell?

asked by: Stephen S

Expert Reply:

All of the hitches made for your 2011 Mini Countryman are light-duty 1-1/4-inch Class I types, like the Curt Trailer Hitch # C11333, which is the one I suggest. These can carry up to 2 bikes.

Strictly speaking, you can use a Class I-compatible hitch adapter like the Brophy # HT5R in a Class I hitch and then install a 2-inch bike rack but there are drawbacks to this method. First, you do lose half of your hitch capacity, as you noted. You also will likely find that the loaded bike rack now exhibits more random motion when you're driving. You'd do well to use a support strap like # 18050 to help support the rack load and reduce stress on the hitch tube, Curt actually requires it.

Be sure you select a Class I-compatible hitch adapter like the Brophy # HT5R to avoid issues.

I would suggest that you purchase a class I-compatible bike rack, rather than using the adapter. There are several to choose from.