How to Use a 1-1/4 Inch Bike Rack with a 2 Inch Trailer Hitch Receiver

Question:

As I don't expect to use the hitch other than for my bike rack I will order the C12100. The only question I have is the installation of C13144 and the C12100 comparable in time and difficulty?

asked by: Tom

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13144 which is a confirmed fit for your 2017 Subaru Forester will work with a bike rack that has a 1-1/4" shank but you will need to use a reducer like part # HT02. Most bike racks come with an adapter to use a 1-1/4" shank inside a 2" trailer hitch so if you can tell me what bike rack you have I would be glad to see if we have one for you. The bike rack specific adapter will have less movement than the part # HT02 but it will still work for you regardless.

You can also use the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C12100 which is also a confirmed fit for your 2017 Subaru Forester but has a 1-1/4" receiver tube opening and will not require an adapter to work with your bike rack. You will however limit your towing capacity with this hitch should you ever decide to tow a trailer.

I have attached an install video on both hitches for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L

click to enlarge

Tom

5/18/2018

Conner my bike rack is a Q -slot2 Pro series

Conner L.

5/18/2018

There is a specific adapter sleeve that will allow you to use the Reese Q-Slot Platform-Style 2 Bike Rack part PS63134 with a 2" trailer hitch receiver. However, we currently do not offer this part. You can see the part labeled as letter "M" in the attached photo. With that being said, the adapter sleeve is actually made of hard plastic which over time can wear down and become ineffective. Therefore, the part # HT02 could actually be viewed as an upgrade as you do not have to worry about it wearing down over time.

Tom

5/21/2018

As I don't expect to use the hitch other than for my bike rack I will order the C12100. The only question I have is the installation of C13144 and the C12100 comparable in time and difficulty?

Conner L.

5/21/2018

The installation of the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13144 will be the exact same as the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C12100. They both use the same six holes in the frame therefore the installation process will be identical. Curt estimates that it will take between 30-60 minutes depending on skill level. They are both relatively easy to install with access to common tools and a bit of mechanical aptitude.