I have had a hitch on my HHR almost as long as I've had the car. Its been a great thing to have. As our family has grown, we wanted to get a 4 bike hitch mount carrier to replace our 2 bike rack. We found that the 4 bike racks only came in 2in hitch varieties and the only hitch stuff I can find for an HHR is 1.25. Has anyone here used a 1.25 to 2 in adapter in a case like this? My research so far tell me to avoid it but I am curious if anyone here has tried it.

 

You're talking about one of these?

All the ones I saw had good reviews, why avoid it? As long as it's only for your bike rack, not for towing.

 

Warnings probably come from incompatible weight limits. A 2 inch can take a heavier load than the car can handle, just don't hook up to a 2 ton trailer.

 

I have one, used it for my old bike rack, it worked great!

 

Judging by what I see in the photo, this adapter is a rather primitive detail.
A couple of scraps of square pipes, a welding machine and an spray paint can save you money and most importantly, allow you to have an adapter of any reasonable length.
Of course, if the photo shows the adapter assembly.

 

You're not saving much by making it yourself. They're only $15 - $20.

 

Not all of them fit exactly. Some will be loose and allow the bike rack to sway noticeably while driving. This may bother some people.

 

I have several hitches that fit loose in the receiver. They would rattle all the time.
Simple fix is a wrap or 2 of duct tape to tighten them.

 

Harbour Freight, Northern Tools and some WalMarts

 

Curt

https://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Adapt...rt/C45785.html