Best 1 1/4" hitch platform 2 bicycle rack

[Adam1219]

What is the best 2 bicycle class 1 - 1 1/4" hitch, flat bicycle rack and where I can get the best price? I'm putting it on my towed vehicle if that makes a difference. I noticed some racks note not to use them on a towed vehicle. I'm not in the market for a $500 Thule product. I like Thule but there are other brands if someone out there has a good experience with a more economically priced unit that's just as good.

Thanks.

[MisterT]

walmart

(...and you can see why I didn't attempt to mount one to the toad!)

[Adam1219]

Thanks.

Thule has a couple of racks that specifically state not to mount to RV hitch. I just bought a hitch for my towed car (2016 Kia Soul). It's a 1 1/4" class 1 hitch. I want a flat rack. One you place the bicycle into and lower the arm to lock it in. It's referred to as a platform rack I think.

[nosticks]

Swagmann xtc2. Fits 1 1/4 or 2" receiver. I have one and it is very sturdy and easily adjustable to fit different sized bikes.

[MonkeyClaw]

Kuat makes great racks. Check them out and see if that's what you're looking for.

[ctpres]

Swagman XC2. On second RV. Well over 50,000 miles. Exposed to elements 365 days for over four years. Used behind toad and coach. With wheel supports it is safe for carrying carbon fiber bikes. Has locking holes on both bike clamps.

[BirchyBoy]

If it were me, I'd consider getting an RV-approved Swagman that requires a 2" hitch. Then use a 2" to 1.25" adapter for your car. Who knows when you may want to take your bikes without your car?

[nosticks]

The Swagmann XTc2 out of the box is set up for a 2" receiver. It easily adapts down to 1 1/4" by removing the blocks which adapt it to the 2" to begin with. No need for any other type of adapters. No such thing as RV approved.

[BirchyBoy]

Originally Posted by nosticks

The Swagmann XTc2 out of the box is set up for a 2" receiver. It easily adapts down to 1 1/4" by removing the blocks which adapt it to the 2" to begin with. No need for any other type of adapters. No such thing as RV approved.

There are a few different Swagman racks. I have the XC2RV which does not use the same filler that your model does and is listed as "RV approved" by the manufacturer; look at the bottom of this page:

https://www.amazon.com/Swagman-Cross.../dp/B001DMJPLO

Some Thule and Yakima's will say "not approved for RV use". Some Swagman's will say they are. This should only be an issue if you try to make a warranty claim. I have read elsewhere that the amount of stress on the carrier due to the rough RV ride may be too much for a 1.25" carrier.

[JMynes]

I worked in a bike shop that sold Thule products, and have seen Thule deny warranty coverage because the rack was used on the back of an RV.
I believe it is specifically spelled out on their warranty statement.

[ctpres]

Just looked at Swagman spec's table and the RV approved line has been added since I bought mine. I suspect limitation has to do with distance from wheels typical in motor homes. A bunch of up and down forces with sudden direction change involved equals a bunch of stress.

[Adam1219]

I want to make sure I have a warranty. And... Yes, if you read the "Details" on most under $500 Thule bike racks it does state "NO RV or attaching to a vehicle being towed" so if I did not see that over and over this would not have turned into a complex research project.

I sent an email to Thule and received NO RESPONSE (sent 6 days ago).

I will research Swagmann.

[Adam1219]

Swagman XTC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (1.25 and 2-Inch Receiver)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Amazon Prime

$212.99

[nosticks]

You'll be happy with it. I've had mine for 7 years, back of 5th wheel, my car, and now Motor Home.