What Is The Stabilizing Strap That Is Needed For A Curt Class I Hitch On A 2010 Kia Soul

Question:

What do you mean by stabilizer straps for a bike rack? Thats all were using the hitch for. A 2-bike bike rack that fits in a 1 1/4 receiver.

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

The Curt Bike Rack Strap, # 18050, will attach to the bike rack and the other end to the vehicles trunk lip or window. It gives added support and stability to the bike rack and keeps the movement of the bike rack to a minimum, which puts less stress on the hitch.

The manufacturer (Curt) requires the use of the stabilizing strap on all of their Class I hitches. Because the Class I hitches have a lower tongue weight capacity they do not want any added strain to be put on that hitch.

I am sending a link to the installation instructions of the Curt Class I Hitch for the Kia Soul. It states in the instructions that failure to properly support non-trailer loads will void product warranty.

expert reply by: Jeff D