Is a Support Strap Required for Curt Hitches when Using a Bike Rack on my 2012 Honday Odyssey

Question:

I have the Curt 13068 mounted on my 2012 Odyssey. I've read on pages for other Curt hitch kits that a support strap is required when attaching hitch mounted accessories like a bike rack. Is this true here too? We just ordered a Yakima FullSwing rack for use on this vehicle as well as a few others with factory receivers.

asked by: Adrian G

Expert Reply:

You will not need a support strap for the Yakima Full Swing # Y02465 if you are using Curt Hitch Kit # 13068. The Full Swing comes with everything you need to ensure your bikes are safe at the back of your vehicle. As long as the hitch is installed properly, you will have no issues when using your bike rack. Also make sure you are within the weight limit your hitch and bike rack holds. If you add too much weight to the hitch or the bike rack, this could cause your rack to sag which is dangerous.

The weight capacity of the Yakima Full Swing is 160 lbs. total and has a carrying capacity of 4 bikes and your Curt Hitch # C13068 has a maximum gross trailer weight of 3,500 lbs. and maximum tongue weight of 350 lbs.

If you are carrying any women's children's or alternative framed bikes without the top horizontal crosstube, you may want to consider a bike adapter bar similar to # TH982XT to make loading bikes easier. This will also make sure you are carrying your bikes safely.

I have attached an installation video of your Curt Hitch on a 2012 Honda Odyssey and a review video of the Yakima Full Swing on a 2013 Honda Odyssey. I have also attached a video of the bike adapter bar you may want to check out.

expert reply by: Sarah H