Weight Capacity of Draw-Tite Sportframe Class I Hitch # 24878 on 2012 Chevrolet Sonic Hatchback

Question:

Hello, I have a 2012 Chevy Sonic Hatchback. How much weight can this hitch support? I will only be using the hitch to mount a 1upUSA bike rack and either one or two 40-lb downhill mountain bikes, depending on how much the hitch can support. I have heard a weight-distribution stabilizing strap might help. Thank you for your help!

asked by: Kerry

Helpful Expert Reply:

The hitches offered for your 2012 Chevy Sonic Hatchback are all 1-1/4-inch size Class I light-duty hitches. This class of hitch is rated for up to 200-lbs tongue weight (tongue weight is the downward force on a hitch). A Class I hitch can carry 2 bikes maximum.

You will just want to ensure that the combined weight of your two bikes plus the weight of the carrier does not exceed the hitch's 200-lb capacity, or the vehicle's. You can check your owners manual on this. You also want to verify that the carrier is compatible with Class I hitches and that it has a 1-1/4-inch shank. (1UpUSA offers racks in both 1-1/4-inch and 2-inch sizes.)

An inexpensive stabilizing strap like # 18050 from Curt is a great idea to help support your hitch, and in fact it is required on Curt brand hitches. It is still a good idea for any brand of hitch as it will help reduce stresses on the vehicle frame and the hitch and will reduce the random motion of the loaded rack when you are going down the road.

expert reply by: Adam R