General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Hitch rack + adapter = stable? Rss Feed  
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2008-09-25 2:59 PM

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Subject: Hitch rack + adapter = stable?

I have a really nice Thule hitch bike rack for 2" receiver.  I really liked it for the truck - it bolted into the hitch receiver and was VERY stable.  Now I have a little car and can only get a 1.5" receiver hitch.  If I put a reducer inbetween the hitch and the rack, would it still be stable or would I get a lot of wobble?  Any other suggestions (besides a new rack)

FYI, car is a Scion Xd and a hitch is available.

(The rack bolts into the receiver hitch.  It would be great if the reducing couple could do the same)



2008-09-25 3:35 PM
in reply to: #1696698

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Subject: RE: Hitch rack + adapter = stable?

I have a Thule 2-bikes hitch rack on my Acura RSX (hatch back, rear windshield has no rim.  You don't want to mount anything on glass).  THis is the only way I can put a rack on my car. 

Have had it for over a year and works well. 

2008-09-25 4:30 PM
in reply to: #1696840

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Subject: RE: Hitch rack + adapter = stable?

Do you reduce the rack down from 2" to 1.5" or is the rack a 1.5" tube?

I'm really worried about the reducing couple adding a lot of slop to the mount.

2008-09-25 6:25 PM
in reply to: #1696698

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Subject: RE: Hitch rack + adapter = stable?
I went the other way. I had a Passat with an 1 1/4" hitch and bought a rack for it. I traded to a Touareg and that has a 2" reciever. The adapter was really bad. I duct taped it on there, but eventually after a mountain bike ride with a friend, he welded it up for me. It's much better as 1 piece. If you can get it spot welded together, I think you'll like it much better.

Thule won't sell you just the base piece either. Communists!
2008-09-25 7:11 PM
in reply to: #1696698

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Subject: RE: Hitch rack + adapter = stable?
I have the thule 4 bike on a 2" receiver on my Expedition. Love it. I would think a reducer would work fine. We arent talking a ton of weight here. Just bolt down everything well.
2008-09-25 8:30 PM
in reply to: #1697264

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Subject: RE: Hitch rack + adapter = stable?

pitt83 - 2008-09-25 7:25 PM I went the other way. I had a Passat with an 1 1/4" hitch and bought a rack for it. I traded to a Touareg and that has a 2" reciever. The adapter was really bad. I duct taped it on there, but eventually after a mountain bike ride with a friend, he welded it up for me. It's much better as 1 piece. If you can get it spot welded together, I think you'll like it much better.

I thought about welding - but that leaves a 6 inch tube sticking out the back of the car.  Not the best or safest option - and I know I'd be the one busting my shins on it all the time. 

Thule won't sell you just the base piece either. Communists!

First thing I checked . . . .

A little more surfing, and I found this:  http://www.autoaccessconnect.com/anradeforhim.html which I think might do the trick.

I'll let everyone know next spring.



2008-09-26 7:42 AM
in reply to: #1696698

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Subject: RE: Hitch rack + adapter = stable?

I have a 1.5"

My car doesn't even have a hitch to mount anything on.  My mechanic installed the bracket at the bottom of my car and the only a bracket that comes with a 1.5" hitch fits my car. 

Your bike isn't that heavy.  Shouldn't be a problem.  Just make sure you don't back into a wall. 

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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Hitch rack + adapter = stable? Rss Feed