Comparing the Curt Hitch C12100 and the Draw-Tite Hitch 18050 for a 2017 Subaru Forester

Question:

Im putting a hitch on a 2017 Forester and looking at the Curt 1 1/4inch hitch. wondering about their recommendation/requirement of using stabilizing straps for non-trailer loads a bike rack in my case. is the Curt less able to handle that torque than the Drawtite - or are they just more conservative in their recommendations? I doubt that in reality I will take the trouble to use a stabilizing strap on my bike rack.

asked by: Roy S

Expert Reply:

As you alluded to, it's not so much that the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C12100 is not as strong as the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 36523 as it is that Curt is just more conservative which is why they also recommend using the Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap part # 18050. I am sure you will be happy with either option though. However, if you are using the hitch for a bike rack then you are really going to want to use the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver because the receiver tube is not as recessed under the rear bumper as much (3-1/2") when compared to the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver (6").

For a bike rack, I recommend the Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Platform Rack part # KU74FR because it's super easy to use due to it's lightweight design and because it is a quality well made rack with a lifetime warranty.

expert reply by: Conner L