Draw-Tite and Curt Class I Hitch Comparison for 2014 Ford Focus SE Hatchback

Question

Question:

Im interested in purchasing a trailer hitch for a 2014 Ford Focus SE hatchback and noticed that the Draw-Tite 24872 and Curt C11158 options cost almost the same, but are a little different, and was hoping to get your expert advice on which would be better for my purposes. I wont really be towing anything, but will be using a cargo tray on a regular basis. It seems to me that the Draw-Tite has in theory a better attachment method since it uses both horizontal and vertical bolts the Curt only attaches using vertical bolts, but the Curt has a stress collar on the tube the Draw-Tite doesnt. I assume the stress collar helps prevent the tube from splitting or stretching? I have the Draw-Tite style no collar on my other car and I use a bike carrier. It bounces around a lot on the road I assume a cargo tray would do the same. I just want to know if you think there would be any major difference between them, if one will last longer than the other with regular use. Thanks!

asked by: Richard E

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Expert Reply:

All Class I hitches offered for your 2014 Ford Focus SE Hatchback are a light-duty type that offer the same 200-lb tongue weight capacity, but as you note there are some differences between them that may help guide your choice for your cargo basket application. The link provided will let you see all three. The variations in construction do not result in different weight ratings so I would not be concerned about the presence or absence of the collar.

The Curt hitch # C11158 requires that you use a stabilizing strap, part # 18050, to retain your warranty coverage. This minor additional expense makes the Curt and the Draw-Tite Hitch # 24872 about the same total cost.

A strap to support and stabilize ANY cargo carrier (or 2-bike rack) is a good idea, even if it is not required by the manufacturer. I see only potential benefits from using a strap with whatever hitch you choose. But based on your application I suggest the Draw-Tite # 24872 for its lower cost and since it is a no-drill installation. Please see the linked video.

You will need to use a 1-1/4-inch Class I cargo carrier in any of these hitches. The link provided will show you four such compatible carriers.

expert reply by: Adam R

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Answer 1

I have a great solution for you for a bike rack with a ramp. Unfortunately, Saris does not make a ramp for the Saris MTY Bike Rack SA4031. We also do not have a bike rack that has a ramp for a single bike. With that being said, we do have a 2-bike…

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Answer 2

Structurally, a class II trailer hitch is designed to hold a bit more weight than a class I. This is because the materials that compose a class II hitch are stronger. All class I and class II hitches have the same 1-1/4 inch receiver opening which…

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Answer 3

For your 2012 Ford Focus Sedan, I recommend the Curt Class I Hitch #C11158. I have attached a link to all the bike racks that will work with the Curt hitch's 1-1/4 in receiver opening. The link will show both hanging and platform racks. If you…

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Answer 4

Actually the Curt Class I hitches do not have the weld stop in the hitch tubes to prevent Class II only accessories from being used. It's not a well-known feature we advertise as the absence of it does not mean you can use a Class II only…

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Answer 5

The Thule Passage 2-bike trunk-mount rack #TH910XT is a confirmed fit on both the 2014 Ford Focus sedan and hatchback ST models with factory spoiler. My contact at Thule confirmed that there are no fit issues on your car, but it is true that there…

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Answer 6

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 7

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 8

Class I and Class II hitches both have a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. The difference is that a Class I hitch has a lower tongue weight rating, usually 200 pounds and a lower towing rating, usually 2,000 pounds. A Class II hitch usually has a tongue…

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Answer 9

To me it makes the most sense to put a Bike Rack #HLY64FR on the flat towed vehicle rather than above the tow bars. Especially on heavy e-bikes as they are difficult to lift that high onto the rack, but also as it only makes sense to have the rack on…

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Answer 10

All Class I hitches offered for your 2014 Ford Focus SE Hatchback are a light-duty type that offer the same 200-lb tongue weight capacity, but as you note there are some differences between them that may help guide your choice for your cargo basket…

view full answer...