Solution for Yakima Bike Rack that Wont Fit in 1-1/4 inch Trailer Hitch

Question:

I have a 1-1/4inch Class 1 hitch receiver on my 2005 Honda Element. It has a backstop that is approx 1-5/8inch from the pin hole center. I want to mount a Yakima 2-bike rack 200 lbs with bikes but it appears that the backstop will be a problem. Can I use a 1-1/4 to 2inch adapter/extension to accommodate a Yakima bike rack? Which one of your models would you recommend? Thanks,

asked by: Greg K

Expert Reply:

Your trailer hitch has a weld stop purposefully installed in it to prevent you from using the bike rack you have. So the hitch you have is a Class I hitch and the Yakima bike rack is a Class II so what your hitch has in it is a way to prevent you from using a Class II accessory which would potentially damage the hitch and your vehicle. All Yakima bike racks are Class II hitch and up only and we can not recommend the use of a hitch adapter as that would put even more stress on the hitch due to additional leverage and movement.

The best solution we have is a bike rack that will fit your hitch directly that is Class I compatible like the Thule DoubleTrack part # TH92BJ which is a platform style bike rack that will work really well for your application.

I also attached a link to a page that has all of the Class I compatible trailer hitches we offer as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C