Why Cant Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 2-Bike Rack # HLY74FR Be Used on Class I Hitch

Question:

We have a class 1 hitch on our vehicle, 200 lb. Hitch wt class, your site says bike rack will not fit only class 2 hitch. What keeps it from fitting our hitch when we have enough hitch wt??? Uses 1 1/4

asked by: Ed

Expert Reply:

The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 2 Electric Bike Rack # HLY74FR referenced in your question should indeed only be used on Class II 1-1/4 inch receivers or higher rated 2 inch receivers. The manufacturer has simply determined that this particular rack with bikes loaded puts too much leverage on a lighter duty Class I hitch that could cause damage during travel. As you mentioned in your question it's certainly possible to stay under the 200 pound tongue weight capacity of a Class I hitch with this rack but it's both the weight and the leverage from the rack's design that may cause issues.

Using this rack with a Class I hitch would also void the carrier's warranty.

We do have a nice selection of heavy duty racks like this that can be used with a Class I trailer hitch receiver. I specifically recommend the Thule T2 Pro # TH23JV that can handle two bikes of up to 50 pounds each and features ratcheting hooks that will secure them by the front wheels without any frame contact. The carrier can also be tilted away from the vehicle (with the bikes still loaded) for easy rear cargo access. A bike and hitch lock are included as well to help deter theft and protect your investments.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this bike rack that you can check out along with a link that will take you to our available selection of higher-rated racks that are compatible with Class I hitches.

expert reply by: Chris R