Bike Rack that Has a Strap Attached to Reduce Stress on Trailer Hitch

Question:

I obtained a used bike rack that is branded as Subaru probably from around 2008. It had no manual, but after searching online, it is identical to the SR2704. However it has a nylon strap. One end is attached to the top bend of the main tube where the tube turns from vertical to horizontal. The strap is attached to the outside of the bend so facing the back of the vehicle. The other end has a hook. It seems like it could hook to the top of the vehicle, to help reduce torque on the trailer hitch. Alternatively it might be meant to wrap around the bikes for helping to secure them. Have you seen anything like this?

asked by: John

Helpful Expert Reply:

It sounds like you are describing Curt stabilization strap # 18050. It is used to take some of the stress off of the trailer hitch. I have linked a video showing how this strap works and it sounds like what you are describing.

expert reply by: Michael H