Choose a Bike Rack for a 2013 Ford C-Max

Question:

I have a 2013 Ford cmax. My goal is to tow up to 4 bikes. Ive purchased and had installed the Curt 12092 class 2 hitch. The bike rack Im borrowing until I figure out whats best needs a 2 inch receiver. What do you recommend I do?

asked by: Paula E

Helpful Expert Reply:

To use your current bike rackwith your Ford C-Max, you'll need a hitch adapter like the Brophy 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver, part # HTAD. This will allow you to use the current rack without any further needs. This will, however, lower your available tongue weight (TW) by 50%, meaning that the total weight of your rack plus your bikes will need to be lower than 175lbs. I don't recommend this as a long term solution for your needs.

When you go to purchase a rack for yourself, I recommend a bike rack designed for your vehicle such as the Swagman Trailhead 4 Bike Rack, part # S63380. This rack includes anti-sway cradles that help keep your bikes secured in the rack while driving, as well as helping prevent damage to your vehicle and bikes. Swagman includes an anti-rattle hitch pin to reduce noise and movement while driving, plus a Shank Adapter that gives you flexibility in the future to move between a 2" and 1-1/4" shank. This rack is a 1-1/4" inch size which will allow you to avoid the reduction in tongue weight that I mentioned above.

Additionally, it is a tilt away model, which will allow you to access the hatchback on the Ford C-Max with bikes installed. For increased security, I recommend purchasing Swagman's Hitch and Cable Lock pack, part # S64031.

expert reply by: Jacob W