How To Use the Thule T2 Bike Rack 916XTR With 1-1/4 Inch Hitch

Question:

I bought a Thule 916xtr bike rack at a garage sale but I need a hitch adapter to go from my 2” bike rack to my 1/14” car hitch.

asked by: Gerry

Expert Reply:

In order to use the Thule T2 2 Bike Platform Rack part TH916XTR with a 1-1/4" receiver tube opening you will need the Replacement 1-1/4" Hitch and Backbone Assembly part # 753370902. I know this is probably more than you were looking to spend but Thule does not make any sort of adapter for the Thule T2 2 Bike Platform Rack part TH916XTR to allow it to be used with a 1-1/4" receiver tube opening aside from replacing the shank.

If you were looking to save money, you could use the Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" part # HTAD but Thule recommends against this so you wouldn't have a warranty and the weight capacity of the trailer hitch will be cut in half. Most 1-1/4" trailer hitches have a 200 lb tongue weight capacity so that then leaves you with 100 lbs which when subtracting the weight of the bike rack (50 lbs) only leaves you with 50 lbs for two bikes.

In summary, the Backbone Assembly is best but the Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" could work.

expert reply by: Conner L