Why Does Curt Require Stabilizer Strap When Carrying Bike Rack and Not Draw Tite

Question:

I just installed the Curt hitch on my 17foot Kia Sorento. Im Just wondering why is requires stabilization strap for a bike rack?

asked by: Jeff W

Expert Reply:

I have spoke with my contact at Curt numerous times regarding the requirement of the stabilizing/support strap, # 18050. Curt requires this strap in order to alleviate the leveraging affect that a non-trailer load places on a hitch like part # C13195. At Curt they like to use the example of carrying a gallon of milk. Think of the strain that would be put on your arm if it is extended opposed to if you carry the milk close to your body. This is what also happens with a hitch when a bike rack or cargo carrier is mounted. Although the hitch itself will support a bike rack or cargo carrier, it puts added strain on the hitch. This is the reason that in order to maintain the warranty, Curt does require that you use the straps to provide additional support.

Other manufacturers do not have the same requirement like Draw Tite # 75908 but that does not mean they are necessarily stronger. Curt just likes to err on the side of caution more than Draw Tite.

expert reply by: Jameson C