Can Hitch Extender be Used on Class II Hitch to Carry 4 Bikes With 2012 Chevy Impala

Question:

I have a bike rack that can haul 4 bikes. It has a 2inch hitch. Can I get a extender hitch that goes from 1 1/4inch to 2inch to make my bike rack work? Also if I haul 4 bikes will it have any effect on the hitch its self? Would it be safe?

asked by: Tom B

Expert Reply:

You can certainly use an adapter like the Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver (Class II Only) # 80303 to carry your bikes on your 2012 Chevrolet Impala. The one thing you have to keep in mind here is that the use of any adapter is going to reduce the capacity of the hitch by 50%.

This means that the tongue weight on your Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # 36407 will drop from 300 lbs to 150 lbs. As long as you do not exceed the 150 lbs between your bike carrier and the bikes it is safe and can be used. If the weight exceeds the 150 lb tongue weight your only option would be to use a different bike carrier that will fit your 1-1/4" hitch like the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR.

expert reply by: Robin H