Can Class II Hitch Handle Dirt Bike and Carrier on 2003 Ford Escape

Question:

I have a 2003 ford escape with a class 2 hitch that can uphold 3500 pull weight and 350 tongue weight but is a 1 and 1/4” receiver but I want to install a dirt bike rack that can hold a yz125 so 195 pounds but I would need a 2 inch receiver for a dirt bike rack and I was wonder if I should just get a receiver adapter that transfer from 1 and 1/4” to 2” and if that would work replace the hitch with a 2 inch receiver one

asked by: Kye L

Expert Reply:

Any adapter like the Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver # 80303 is going to reduce your capacity by 50%. At 175 lbs of tongue weight you're already unable to carry the YZ125 at 195 lbs. You also have to consider the 50 lbs from the weight of the # UF48-979033. To make this work you will need to remove the existing hitch and install the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13506. This will allow you to handle the weight of the bike and rack without the need for an adapter.

expert reply by: Robin H