Will the Yakima Ridgeback 2 fit a Curt Class I Trailer Hitch on a 2008 Infiniti EX35

Question:

I plan on purchasing the Curt C11510 Hitch for my 2008 Infiniti EX35. I believe the Thule Vertex 2 is compatible with this hitch and my vehicle. However, I would rather purchase the new Yakima Ridgeback 2. According to the Fit Check on the official Yakima website, the 08 Infiniti EX35 is not compatible, but no reason is given. I tried various other vehicles and all searches resulted with incompatibility, so the site doesnt exactly inspire confidence. My question is: Will the Yakima Ridgeback 2 fit my 2008 Infiniti EX35? Thanks.

asked by: SJD

Expert Reply:

The Yakima RidgeBack, # Y02457, will fit Class II trailer hitches but not Class I trailer hitches like # C11510. So that is what the issue is. Class II hitches have a greater receiver depth that Class I hitches so the shank of the rack will fit properly and the hitch pin holes will line up.

There are only certain bike racks that will fit a Class I trailer hitch and I have included a link to them for you. Like you said, the Camber, # TH9058, will fit the hitch and is a popular 2 bike hanging rack option for Class I hitches. I have linked a video review of the rack for you.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical mens bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # TH982XT. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wifes bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my sons bike at all. I linked a video showing how the adapter works.

expert reply by: Michael H