Using a 1-1/4" to 2" Hitch Expander for a Bike Rack on a 2014 Mazda CX-9

Question:

Hello, We have a 1 1/4inch trailer hitch on the our 2014 CX-9. Our new 4 bike rack only fits into a 2inch trailer hitch. Is it OK to use a 1 1/4inch to 2inch adapter and then put the bike rack on the adapter? Thanks.

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

To use a 1-1/4 to 2 inch hitch expander you first need to look at the tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch on your 2014 Mazda CX-9. There should be a sticker on the hitch that lists the tongue weight capacity. The use of an expander will reduce the tongue weight capacity of the hitch by 50 percent. The combined weight of the bike rack and bikes will need to under the reduced tongue weight capacity.

Another thing to consider is the bike rack itself. Not all bike racks are rated for use with any sort of adapter. If you can tell me the bike rack you have I can determine if using it with an expander will void the warranty on the rack.

If the rack is one that can be used with an expander AND the loaded bike rack weight is under the reduced tongue weight capacity you can use Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver Item # HTAD.

If anything does not work out based on the information above I recommend a new rack. A very popular option is Thule Hitching Post Pro - Folding Tilting 4 Bike Rack w Anti-Sway - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches Item # TH934XTR. I have linked a video review of this rack for you.

expert reply by: Michael H