Recommended Trailer Hitch and Using Curt Stabilizing Straps on 2018 BMW X1

Question:

For some time now I have been using the CURT support straps code: 18050 when hauling two ebikes on the back of my Ford Escape with the Saris Freedom Superclamp 2 bike rack. I now have purchased a 2018 BMW X1 to replace my Ford Escape. My plan was to purchase the Curt class III receiver hitch code: C13303 and continue to use the two CURT straps I currently own. Today I discovered the following two problems with using the straps that I own. 1 The strap hook that needs to be attached to the BMW tailgate is bent at the wrong angle so it wont lay flat when connected to the top of the tailgate. 2 The entire top tailgate section of the BMW is plastic so Im not sure I want to connect the strap to it for fear of breaking it. My question is do you have any suggestions as to how I can support my two ebikes with stabilizing straps as is required if I buy the CURT receiver hitch recommend for the 2018 BMW X1?

asked by: Owen

Expert Reply:

The Curt Class III Receiver Hitch # C13303 referenced in your question is confirmed to fit your 2018 BMW X1. As you also mentioned, you will still need to use your stabilizing straps # 18050 when transporting your bikes per the warranty on the hitch.

There is no single, correct way to use the stabilizing straps on a bike rack. Since you will have trouble attaching the straps to the top of the hatch on your new BMW, another option is to lower the attachment point of the strap on the bike rack and then run it to the lower edge of the vehicle's hatch opening. The purpose of the straps is to simply stabilize the bike rack when mounted to the hitch receiver. Depending on the vehicle and bike rack design, the method for doing this can vary and may need to get a little creative. As long as the strap is tightly secured to the rack and your vehicle, it is doing its job.

Another option, if you simply would rather not deal with the stabilizing straps, is to go with the etrailer Trailer Hitch # e93Kr. Unlike Curt, etrailer does not require you to use stabilizing straps with bike racks and cargo carriers. This Class III hitch is confirmed to fit your vehicle and will still provide more than enough capacity for your 2 e-bikes.

expert reply by: Chris R