Platform Hitch Bike Rack Compatibility With Flat Towed Vehicle

Question:

I see that both the Thule and Kuat manufactures dont recommend using on a flat towed vehicle. Can you explain why?

asked by: Mark E

Expert Reply:

There are more forces in play at the rear of a flat towed vehicle or trailer. This causes extra stress on the hitch bike rack. Until recently, most rack manufacturers did not even let you know if your bike rack was rated to be on the back of a towed vehicle or trailer. Even now, I do not think hitch bike rack manufacturers are building all of their models to withstand those forces. I think most manufacturers have a few dedicated models that meet those specifications to go on the back of a towed vehicle and they are primarily the hanging kind of hitch bike rack but Kuat does make several platform racks that are rated for a flat towed vehicle.

The Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount, part # KU84FR, is a 2" hitch bike rack. It has an anti-rattle hitch so that eliminates the movement between the hitch bike rack and the hitch receiver. It can be tilted, when empty or carrying bikes, so you can have access to the rear of your vehicle. You can also lock your bikes to the rack.

I have included a product description link and a video review link below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith