Recommendation for a Hitch and Bike Rack for my 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix GT to Haul 4 Bikes

Question:

I want to put a hitch on a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix GT that I will only use for a bike rack, and I w ant to be able to carry 4 bikes. Can I put a a 2 inch receiver hitch on the car? If so, which ones? If not, are there 1.25 inch hitches that will work? If so which ones? Also, would it be ok to get a 1.25 inch hitch and put an adapter on it to make it a 2 inch hitch? Thanks

asked by: Tim F

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt Class II 1-1/4 Inch Trailer Hitch Receiver, # C12225, would be a good option for your 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix GT. This hitch has a tongue weight capacity of 350 pounds. Tongue weight capacity is the maximum amount of weight that can be safely suspended from a hitch and the use of a hitch adapter like # HTAD will reduce a vehicle's tongue weight capacity by 50 percent.

The only hitches that are available for the 2001 Grand Prix GT are Class II which has the 1-1/4 inch receiver.

You will want to check your owner's manual to determine the tongue weight capacity of your vehicle. You will want to follow the weight limitations of the component with the lowest rating.

As for a bike carrier for four, I personally recommend the Yakima RidgeBack, # Y02458. This bike carrier is packed with features including anti-sway cradles, folding arms, and a tilting mast. I am also including a link to the numerous other 4 bike carriers that we offer for a Class II hitch.

If you will be carrying any women's, children's, or alternative frame bikes, I recommend picking up the Yakima Tube Top Adapter Bar, # Y02531. Bikes with small or angled frames can be difficult to load on hanging style bike racks and they can cause ground clearance issues. This adapter will allow you to load the bikes easily and safely. I have also attached a demonstration video of this adapter bar for you.