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Yet another hitch question, Curt stabilizing strap, Yay or Nay??

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Accessories & Modifications' started by Snagtooth, Jan 15, 2019.

  1. Snagtooth

    Snagtooth Junior Member

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    I recently purchased a Curt Hitch for my 2008 with the only intention of using it for a 2 bike rack. At the time, I completely missed the need to use a stabilizing strap requirement. So before I send it back and go with a Draw-Tite, can those of you who have a Curt hitch weigh in on whether or not you use the stabilizing strap or not?

    Other than the hassle of returning, the price difference between the two is fairly negligible.
     
  2. egg_salad

    egg_salad Active Member

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    I think this is a CYA thing from Curt. I've never seen anyone use a stabilizing strap, and I've never heard of any failure from not using one.
     
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  3. Snagtooth

    Snagtooth Junior Member

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    Thanks for the reply.

    That's what I was wondering. I'll only be hauling around an aluminum adult bike most of the time and occasionally my son's bike, so I only expect the bikes to weigh about 50-60 pounds at most. I can use a strap or two, if needed. I suppose it's not a major hassle to be extra safe.

    Was just curious what other experiences have been since the other threads I searched were dated and no one seemed to specifically mention the straps.
     
  4. padroo

    padroo Senior Member

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    Is there a lot of slop where the bike rack sits in the receiver causing a rattle?
     
  5. john1701a

    john1701a Prius Guru

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    It is. The Curt on mine recommends that too, but clearly doesn't actually need it.
     
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  6. Snagtooth

    Snagtooth Junior Member

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    I haven’t installed it yet, since I was debating returning for the Draw-Tite. Didn’t really want to return it, as I’ve read the redesign is pretty robust for purpose of just transporting bikes.

    I also have seen you can buy a clamp for securing the shank to the receiver and may get one of those if needed. My hope is to find a good fitting 2 bike rack that won’t require any more parts and thereby eliminate unnecessary weight from the setup.
     
  7. MikeNinMass

    MikeNinMass Junior Member

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    I got the strap. It works well, and I use it except when carting a single bike around town. I wouldn't think about not using it on the highway. The whole assembly becomes rock-solid, and the strap is a really lightweight solution. I was surprised at how stable it became; I think it was a bit shaky on the highway without it, although the rack seemed really solid (and made in USA).

    The strap is really easy to use, and I just throw it and a 3/4" socket/wrench in the left bin under the floor hatch so they're around all the time. I forget what the original way to mount the strap was, but I just double up the end of the loop as a slip-loop over the lower of the top-bar hooks of the rack.
     
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