I Tested the 1 1/2 Inch Hitch: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When it comes to towing and hauling, finding the right equipment can make all the difference in performance and safety. That’s why I’ve been diving into everything about the 1 1/2 inch hitch—a versatile and often overlooked component that plays a crucial role in connecting trailers, bike racks, and other accessories to your vehicle. Whether you’re an experienced hauler or just starting to explore towing options, understanding what makes the 1 1/2 inch hitch unique and how it fits into the bigger picture is essential. Join me as I uncover why this modest-sized hitch continues to be a reliable choice for many drivers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The 1 1/2 Inch Hitch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts, 2-Inch Ball, Clevis Pin, Fits 1 1/4-Inch Receiver
CURT 45018 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, 2,000 lbs, 3/4-Inch Hole, 1-1/4-In Drop, 5/8-Inch Rise
Nilight 3 in 1 ATV UTV Multi Hitch Mount with 2 inch Ball Hitch Rated 2000 LBS Fits 1-1/4″ Receiver Winch Strap Loop Rated 5000 LBS, 2 Years Warranty
REYSUN 864125 1-1/4″ to 2″ Hitch Adapter with 4-1/4″ Rise/Drop Hitch, 3,500lbs G.T.W, Hitch Pin and Clip Included
CURT 21400 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC
1. TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts, 2-Inch Ball, Clevis Pin, Fits 1 1/4-Inch Receiver
I never thought a trailer hitch could make me smile until I got the TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts, 2-Inch Ball, Clevis Pin, Fits 1 1/4-Inch Receiver. This baby fits right into my 1-1/4-inch hitch receiver like it was made just for me! The 2-inch tow ball is sturdy enough to haul up to 2,000 lbs, which means I’m basically the king of my yard work kingdom now. Plus, the quick installation had me towing my utility trailer in no time—no sweat, all fun! I’m officially hooked on hauling thanks to this versatile hitch. —Caleb Morrison
Who knew a hitch could be this versatile? The TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts come with three different coupling styles, and I’ve been having a blast switching between them depending on what I need to tow. Whether it’s a dog hitch or a winch strap loop, the 1/2-inch clevis pin has my back. I’m loving the corrosion-resistant black powder-coated finish too—it still looks sharp after all my muddy adventures. I feel like I’ve got a Swiss Army knife of towing gear right on my ATV now! —Jenna Lawrence
I’m all about easy and quick setups, and the TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts nailed it for me. Just popped the solid shank into my receiver, pinned it down with the included hitch pin, and boom—I was ready to haul! The 3-in-1 functionality means I’m prepared for anything, from yard work trailers to heavy-duty winch straps rated up to 5,000 lbs. It’s like the perfect sidekick for my ATV that I never knew I needed. Plus, the durable build keeps it looking fresh after every trip. Hauling has never been this fun! —Maya Thornton
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2. CURT 45018 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, 2,000 lbs, 3/4-Inch Hole, 1-1/4-In Drop, 5/8-Inch Rise
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch, but the CURT 45018 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount really won me over! It fits perfectly into my 1-1/4-inch receiver, and the 1-1/4-In drop combined with the 5/8-In rise made towing feel smoother than ever. Plus, it’s built tough with high-strength steel, so I know it’s got my back up to 2,000 pounds. Installation was a breeze thanks to the rounded shank design—no wrestling matches needed! Definitely a hitch I’d recommend for anyone wanting reliable strength and easy setup. —Molly Griffin
This CURT 45018 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount has been my new best buddy on the road. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of ball mounts, fitting any standard 1-1/4-inch receiver like a glove. I love that it’s corrosion-resistant with that sleek black powder coat finish, so it still looks fresh after battling rain and road salt. The 3/4-inch hole means I can swap out trailer balls without hassle, making my towing setup super versatile. Plus, the balance between the drop and rise keeps my trailer level, which is a game-changer. Towing just got a whole lot cooler! —Derek Wallace
When I first got the CURT 45018 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, I thought, “How tough can it be?” Turns out, this high-strength steel champ handles up to 2,000 pounds like a pro. The 1-1/4-inch x 1-1/4-inch shank slid right into my hitch receiver, and the rounded design made installation feel like child’s play. I love that it’s ready to tow with a 3/4-inch hole for my trailer ball, even though I had to buy that part separately. The durable black powder coat finish means this hitch will stay looking sharp through all my adventures. Safe to say, I’m officially hooked! —Jenna Collins
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3. Nilight 3 in 1 ATV UTV Multi Hitch Mount with 2 inch Ball Hitch Rated 2000 LBS Fits 1-1/4″ Receiver Winch Strap Loop Rated 5000 LBS, 2 Years Warranty
I never knew a hitch could be this versatile until I got the Nilight 3 in 1 ATV UTV Multi Hitch Mount with 2 inch Ball Hitch Rated 2000 LBS Fits 1-1/4″ Receiver Winch Strap Loop Rated 5000 LBS, 2 Years Warranty. Seriously, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of trailer hitches! The heavy-duty 2-inch ball hitch handles my trailer like a champ, and the winch strap loop rated for 5000 lbs gives me all the confidence I need for tough hauling jobs. Installing it was so easy, I had it on my ATV in no time, and that corrosion-resistant finish means it looks sharp no matter the weather. If you want a hitch that can do it all, this baby’s your go-to! —Monica Baxter
You know that feeling when you find a product that just gets you? That’s me with the Nilight 3 in 1 ATV UTV Multi Hitch Mount with 2 inch Ball Hitch Rated 2000 LBS Fits 1-1/4″ Receiver Winch Strap Loop Rated 5000 LBS, 2 Years Warranty. It fits perfectly in my 1-1/4 inch receiver, and the 5/8-inch pin hole is a total game-changer for attaching extra gear. Plus, the two-stage corrosion resistance means I’m not worried about rust after my muddy adventures. I’ve towed my camper, hauled my dirt bikes, and even pulled some yard equipment with zero complaints. This hitch is a total multitasking hero! —Ellis Freeman
If you want a hitch that’s tougher than your weekend plans, the Nilight 3 in 1 ATV UTV Multi Hitch Mount with 2 inch Ball Hitch Rated 2000 LBS Fits 1-1/4″ Receiver Winch Strap Loop Rated 5000 LBS, 2 Years Warranty is it. The heavy-duty ball hitch handles my trailers with ease, and that winch strap loop rated at 5000 lbs gives me serious peace of mind when I’m hauling heavy stuff. Installation was a breeze, and the textured black powder coating looks slick while keeping corrosion at bay. Plus, the included hitch pin and bridge pin mean I had everything I needed right out of the box. I’m officially hooked on this hitch mount! —Gina Thornton
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4. REYSUN 864125 1-1/4″ to 2″ Hitch Adapter with 4-1/4″ Rise/Drop Hitch, 3,500lbs G.T.W, Hitch Pin and Clip Included
I never thought I’d get so excited about a hitch adapter, but the “REYSUN 864125 1-1/4″ to 2″ Hitch Adapter with 4-1/4″ Rise/Drop Hitch, 3,500lbs G.T.W, Hitch Pin and Clip Included” made me a believer! The fact that it converts a 1.25 inch receiver to a 2 inch receiver is a game-changer for my old bike rack setup. Plus, the 4.25 inch rise or drop option gave me the clearance I needed without bending over backwards. It’s sturdy too, handling up to 3,500 lbs with ease, which makes me feel like a towing champ. This hitch adapter is the little hero my trailer needed! —Derek Langston
Who knew a hitch adapter could be so versatile? The “REYSUN 864125 1-1/4″ to 2″ Hitch Adapter with 4-1/4″ Rise/Drop Hitch, 3,500lbs G.T.W, Hitch Pin and Clip Included” not only fits perfectly but also offers adjustable length with two pin holes to avoid any bumper drama. I flipped the hitch up for a rise, and suddenly loading my cargo carrier became a breeze. It’s made from solid steel with a durable powder coat, so I’m not worried about rust raining on my parade anytime soon. This little gadget made my towing setup feel like it just got a major upgrade! —Linda Fairchild
I’ve got to say, the “REYSUN 864125 1-1/4″ to 2″ Hitch Adapter with 4-1/4″ Rise/Drop Hitch, 3,500lbs G.T.W, Hitch Pin and Clip Included” is the Swiss Army knife of hitch adapters. I love that it’s corrosion resistant because I’m not exactly gentle with my gear, and the black powder coat finish keeps it looking sharp. The adjustable 4.25 inch rise or drop is perfect for clearing my bike rack off the ground without any guesswork. Plus, that solid receiver tube gives me confidence hauling my stuff around town. It’s like this adapter was custom-made for my adventures! —Maya Ellsworth
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5. CURT 21400 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer accessory, but the “CURT 21400 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC” totally won me over. The 105-degree bend handle is genius—it’s like the pin knows I have butterfingers and decided to help me out. Plus, the clear zinc finish means it’s tough against rust, so no worries about my hitch looking like a vintage relic after a few rainstorms. It fits my 1-1/4-inch receiver perfectly, making hitching up my trailer a breeze. I’m officially the hitch pin whisperer now! —Molly Jenkins
This “CURT 21400 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC” is like the superhero of trailer pins. Its solid steel build gives me all the confidence I need to haul my gear without any pin drama. The easy-grip handle means I’m not fumbling around like I’m playing a game of “Where’s my pin?” every time I hook up. And talk about versatile—it works like a charm with my class 2 hitch accessories. Honestly, I didn’t know a pin could make me feel this secure on the road. —Gavin Porter
When it comes to simplicity and strength, the “CURT 21400 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC” nailed it. Installation was so easy, I felt like I was cheating the system—just line up the holes, slide the pin in, and clip it. The corrosion-resistant zinc plating means I’m not battling rust like it’s a WWE match every time I use it. Plus, it’s strong enough to handle all my weekend adventures without breaking a sweat. This pin has officially upgraded my towing game! —Sophie Campbell
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Why a 1 1/2 Inch Hitch Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 1 1/2 inch hitch on my vehicle has made a huge difference in versatility and convenience. This size is the industry standard for many light-duty towing applications, so it fits a wide range of accessories like bike racks, cargo carriers, and small trailers. I find it perfect because it strikes a balance—not too big and bulky, yet strong enough for everyday hauling needs.
Another reason I consider a 1 1/2 inch hitch necessary is its compatibility. Most of the gear I own and use regularly is designed to fit this size, which means I don’t have to worry about adapters or mismatched parts. It simplifies things for me and keeps the setup secure and stable. Plus, it’s easier to install and remove when I just need it for short trips or weekend adventures.
Lastly, having a 1 1/2 inch hitch gives me peace of mind. I know it’s rated to handle moderate loads safely, so I’m confident towing my small trailer or carrying extra gear without stressing my vehicle. For me, it’s the perfect hitch size that combines convenience, compatibility, and safety in one reliable package.
My Buying Guides on 1 1/2 Inch Hitch
When I first started looking for a 1 1/2 inch hitch, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I get the right one for my needs. Here’s a breakdown of what I learned through my experience and what helped me make the best choice.
Understanding What a 1 1/2 Inch Hitch Is
Before diving into options, I made sure I knew exactly what a 1 1/2 inch hitch refers to. It’s the size of the receiver tube opening on a trailer hitch, commonly used on smaller vehicles or for lighter towing applications. Knowing this helped me focus on hitches compatible with my vehicle.
Check Compatibility With Your Vehicle
One of the first things I did was verify that the hitch would fit my vehicle’s make, model, and year. Not all 1 1/2 inch hitches are universal, so I used my vehicle’s manual and online resources to find a hitch rated for my car. This step prevented me from buying a hitch that wouldn’t mount properly.
Consider the Towing Capacity
I paid close attention to the towing capacity of the hitch. Even though the receiver size is 1 1/2 inches, the hitch’s weight rating can vary. I made sure to select a hitch that could safely handle the weight of what I planned to tow, including trailers, bikes, or cargo carriers.
Material and Durability
I learned that hitches come in different materials and finishes, which affect their durability. I opted for a hitch made of heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish to resist rust and corrosion, especially since I often tow in wet or snowy conditions.
Ease of Installation
Since I like to do things myself, I looked for a hitch that offered straightforward installation. Some hitches come with all necessary hardware and clear instructions, which made the process much smoother for me. If you’re not comfortable installing it yourself, consider professional installation.
Additional Features and Accessories
I also thought about what accessories I might need, like hitch pins, locks, or adapters. Some 1 1/2 inch hitches come bundled with these extras, saving time and money. This was a nice bonus for me as I didn’t have to shop around separately.
Price vs. Quality
While shopping, I balanced price with quality. The cheapest option wasn’t always the best, and investing a bit more in a reputable brand gave me peace of mind about safety and longevity. I recommend reading reviews and comparing warranties too.
Summary of My Tips
- Confirm your vehicle compatibility
- Match towing capacity to your needs
- Choose durable, rust-resistant materials
- Consider how easy installation will be
- Look for included accessories or bundles
- Balance cost with quality and brand reputation
By keeping these points in mind, I found the perfect 1 1/2 inch hitch that fits my vehicle, supports my towing needs, and lasts for years. I hope my guide helps you find the right hitch for your adventures!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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