Why It Is Not Recommended to Carry More Than 2 Bikes with a Class 1 Hitch

Question:

Can you have more than two bikes if the total weight of the rack and bikes is less than the 200lb tongue weight? I am looking at a rack that extends away from the car to allow access to cargo area w/o removing the bikes.

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

When you carry more than two bikes it becomes more an issue of leverage of the weight than it does overall weight. That third bike may not weigh much, but since that additional weight will be at such a far distance from the hitch pin hole that weight will apply a lot of leveraged torque on the Class I hitch that can not handle the force and could potentially damage hitch/frame of your vehicle.

That is why if you install this Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver # 24773 and plan to use a bike rack you will want to only put 2 bikes at the most on the rack.

I attached a link to a page that has Class I bike racks for you to check out also, as well as installation instructions and an installation video for the # 24773.

expert reply by: Jameson C