Compatibility of Curt Hitch Adapter D-192 with Towing and Bike Rack Use

Question:

Hi, I have carbon fibre bikes, so a wheel clamp as opposed to a frame clamp is what Im looking for. I got an email from you today about the KU74FR, Kuat Transfer 2-Bike platform rack. I have a small fiberglass trailer and would like to mount this between the tow vehicle and trailer. Id need some turning clearance, and have come up with a possible solution. Id like to run it by you to get your thoughts and suggestions for alternatives. Would it work to go with the dual reciever D-192, put the rack on top and the extender, BH20 on the bottom to the trailer? Are there any weak points there which would make this impractical? Any other suggestions on what might work? Thanks in advance.

asked by: Don M

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you would like to use the top receiver opening of Curt hitch adapter # D-192 to hold the excellent wheel-mount Kuat Transfer bike rack # KU74FR while you tow with extra-long ball mount # BM20 you can do so but note that use of the Curt adapter will reduce your hitch capacity by 50-percent. This is a side-effect that affects almost all hitch adapters; the loss of capacity results from the additional leverage applied to the hitch by adapter length.

Depending on your hitch's starting weight capacity and the actual weight of your small fiberglass trailer this may not be an issue at all, but you'll want to check the hitch rating and trailer weight to make sure.

We do offer front-mount hitches for some vehicles. Using one on your vehicle, if available, would allow you to load the rack up and not have concerns about turning clearance.

expert reply by: Adam R