Best Way To Carry a 2 Inch Bike Rack With a 1-1/4 Inch Hitch

Question:

Can I use the 1.25inch end for the hitch and the 2inch end for the bike rack? Bike Rack is 2inch and new hitch on 2016 Passat is 1.25

asked by: Martin T

Expert Reply:

As the 1-1/4" sleeve inside the Brophy Hitch Reducer 2" to 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver # HT02 is not removeable, it will not work as an expander. However, I do have another option available for you.

With the 1-1/4" hitches for the 2016 VW Passat being Class I rated, I suggest going with the Brophy Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver # HTAD. This will definitely fit your hitch and will allow you to carry your bike rack without issues. However, it should be noted that any expander/extender will cut the tongue weight of your hitch by 50%. With the 1-1/4" Class I hitch having a 200 pound tongue weight, this will drop that to 100 pounds of tongue capacity.

With all that being said, if you haven't installed a 1-1/4" hitch yet, we do also have the EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2" # 306-X7317. This will have a 2" receiver and you will not need any kind of adapter to get your bike rack installed. This will be a more difficult install, but may be a better option for you.

expert reply by: Lazer S