Hitch Adapter to Allow Use of 2-Inch Bike Rack in 2014 Toyota Yaris  

Question:

Expert Reply:

There are hitch adapters available to allow use of a 2-inch accessory item in a 1-1/4-inch hitch. However, all such adapters have the unfortunate and unavoidable side-effect of reducing hitch capacity by 50-percent. An example of such an adapter is the Brophy # HTAD.

The hitch offered for your 2014 Yaris is a light-duty Class I unit, part # C11480 from Curt, which has a rated maximum tongue weight capacity of 200-lbs.

If used with an adapter like the Brophy, the hitch's capacity will be reduced to 100-lbs, and this 100-lbs must be enough for the weight of your bike rack itself plus the weight of the two loaded bikes. Also, Curt requires use of their stabilizing strap # 18050 for any non-trailer load such as a bike rack.
If the total load is under 100-lbs and is supported by the strap you will be able to use the adapter but you will find there will be more random motion of the rack due to the additional connection point introduced by the adapter.

A better and safer solution is to use a second Class I-compatible rack with your Yaris. This will avoid the adapter and the issue of reduced hitch capacity.

The link provided will show you all 2-bike Class I-compatible bike racks. Please note that you cannot carry more than 2 bikes on a Class I hitch, even if the bike rack can hold more than 2. Hitch and/or vehicle damage could occur if more than this load is placed on a Class I hitch. You can use the filters in the left margin to narrow the results based on your preferences for brand, rack type and included features.

The linked articles will give you useful guidance to help you consider the best rack for your vehicle and your particular bikes.

expert reply by: Adam R

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