Solution for Using Bike Rack on 2003 Honda Pilot with Shallow Hitch Pin Hole

Question:

I just bought a Thule Apex 5 bike rack and discovered that the pin hole is too close to the end of the hitch receiver on my 03 Honda Pilot for that bike rack. Can I buy/ use a hitch extender with a hole in a deeper position I think it has to be at least 1.5inch from the end or should I return the Thule for a Yakima rack and will the latter work with my pin hole location? Thanks.

asked by: Richard

Expert Reply:

Using a small hitch extender like the Curt # C45791 for your Thule Apex 5 Bike Rack will indeed resolve the shallow hitch pin issue you have for the trailer hitch on your 2003 Honda Pilot. The potential issue though with this or any similar adapter is that it will reduce the tongue weight capacity of your trailer hitch by 50 percent. For example, if the hitch on your Honda Pilot has a tongue weight capacity of 350 pounds, this will be reduced to 175 pounds when using the adapter. As long as you remain under this reduced capacity with the combined weight of your bikes and the Thule Apex itself (40 pounds) this is no problem and a great solution.

If the reduced capacity is an issue though, your best option is going to be with a different bike rack that is directly compatible with that shallow hitch pin hole.

As you mentioned in your question, we have found and Yakima has stated that most of their racks work well with these shallow hitch pin holes. I spoke with my contact there and he did state that none of their 5-bike racks will work with a hitch pin hole that is less than 1-1/2 inches back from the receiver. You will need to go with a 4-bike rack like the Yakima Ridgeback # Y02458, which he did confirm will work. This carrier features a tilting upright bar, anti-sway cradles for bike stability, and a total weight capacity of 40 pounds per bike (or 150 pounds total.)

I have attached a short video demonstration that you can also take a look at.

expert reply by: Chris R