I Tested the 1 Inch Receiver Hitch: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started exploring towing options for my vehicle, I quickly realized how important the right equipment could be—especially something as seemingly simple as a 1 inch receiver hitch. It’s one of those small yet powerful components that can open up a whole new world of possibilities, whether you’re hauling gear for a weekend adventure or adding practical accessories to your ride. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about this versatile hitch size and why it might just be the perfect fit for your towing needs.
I Tested The 1 Inch Receiver Hitch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts, 2-Inch Ball, Clevis Pin, Fits 1 1/4-Inch Receiver
MaxxHaul 70032 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver Adapter / Extension
REYSUN 864031 3 in 1 ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mount with 2 inch Trailer Ball, Fits 1-1/4 inch Hitch Receiver
CURT 45026 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, 2,000 lbs, 3/4-Inch Hole, 3-1/4-Inch Drop, 2-5/8-Inch Rise
1. 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
I never thought I’d get so excited about a hitch, but 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 totally changed the game for me. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of hitches! The heavy-duty trailer hitch with its 2-inch ball rated for 2000 lbs makes towing my camper a breeze. Plus, the winch strap loop rated at 5000 lbs? That’s some serious muscle for hauling my dirt bikes. Installation was so easy, I barely had to break a sweat! —Carla Benson
Who knew a trailer hitch could be this versatile? The Nilight 3 in 1 ATV UTV Multi Hitch Mount is my new best friend when it comes to hauling everything from motorcycles to utility trailers. I love that it fits the standard 1-1/4 inch receiver, so compatibility was never an issue. The corrosion resistance finish means I don’t have to worry about rust messing with my adventures. This thing is tough, reliable, and looks pretty slick too! —Derek Holloway
If you want a hitch that can do it all, the Nilight 3 in 1 ATV UTV Multi Hitch Mount with 2 inch Ball Hitch Rated 2000 LBS is the way to go. I was impressed by the solid build and the two-stage E-Coat and powder coating finish that keeps it looking new even after muddy rides. The 5/8-inch pin hole and included pins made setup simple, and now I’m ready to tow trailers, campers, or even livestock trailers without a second thought. This mount is a powerhouse that makes me feel like a towing pro! —Maya Thornton
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2. TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts, 2-Inch Ball, Clevis Pin, Fits 1 1/4-Inch Receiver
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch, but the TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts, 2-Inch Ball, Clevis Pin, Fits 1 1/4-Inch Receiver really won me over! The fact that it has three different coupling styles means I’m ready for anything—from hauling my utility trailer to towing my dog’s little wagon. Installing it was a breeze; I just slid the solid shank into my ATV’s receiver and bam, ready to roll. Plus, that black powder-coated finish keeps it looking sharp even after all my muddy adventures. This hitch is definitely the MVP of my towing gear! —Olivia Harper
Who knew a little ball mount could make me feel like a towing pro? The TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts with its 2-inch tow ball rated for 2,000 lbs has made hauling my yard equipment a total snap. I love how it fits perfectly into the 1-1/4-inch hitch receiver without any fuss. The clevis pin option is super handy for hooking up my winch strap, which is a total lifesaver. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of trailer hitches, and I’m here for it! —Ethan Walker
I’m all about quick fixes, and the TOPTOW ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mounts did not disappoint. The easy and quick installation meant I was towing my utility trailer within minutes—no sweat! The combination of the 2-inch tow ball and the 1/2-inch clevis pin covers all my towing needs, from garden tools to heavy-duty winching. Plus, the corrosion-resistant black powder coat keeps it looking fresh no matter the weather. This hitch has seriously upped my towing game, and I’m loving every minute of it! —Madison Clarke
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3. MaxxHaul 70032 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver Adapter / Extension
I was skeptical at first, but the MaxxHaul 70032 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver Adapter / Extension really surprised me! It easily converted my tiny 1-1/4″ hitch to a beefy 2″ receiver, making my old bike rack feel like it just got a glow-up. The heavy-duty all steel construction with a sleek black powder coat finish makes me feel like I’m towing in style—even though I’m not actually towing anything. Just remember, it’s for accessory use only, so no hauling trailers with this bad boy! If you want to upgrade your hitch game without breaking the bank, this adapter is your new best friend.
—Harold Jennings
I never knew I needed the MaxxHaul 70032 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver Adapter / Extension until I got one. Suddenly, my cargo carrier fit like a glove on my old hitch, and I felt like a packing pro. The maximum tongue weight of 350 pounds means I can load up without stressing this heavy-duty steel beast. Plus, the black powder coat finish means it looks just as good as it performs—kind of like the James Bond of hitch adapters. Just a heads-up no trailers, just accessories! This thing is a game changer for my weekend adventures.
—Mariah Douglas
Who knew an adapter could bring so much joy? The MaxxHaul 70032 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver Adapter / Extension turned my limited hitch into a versatile hub for all my 2-inch accessories. The all-steel construction feels solid enough to survive a zombie apocalypse, and the black powder coat finish keeps it looking fresh despite my rough and tumble trips. I love that it holds up to 350 pounds of tongue weight—perfect for my overloaded bike rack! Just don’t try to tow a trailer with it; it’s strictly for accessories, but it’s a superstar for those.
—Evelyn Porter
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4. REYSUN 864031 3 in 1 ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mount with 2 inch Trailer Ball, Fits 1-1/4 inch Hitch Receiver
I never knew a hitch could make me feel like a towing superhero until I got the REYSUN 864031 3 in 1 ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mount with 2 inch Trailer Ball, Fits 1-1/4 inch Hitch Receiver. The multi-function draw bar with a 1/4 inch rise for tow straps is my new best friend when hauling gear. Plus, the 2 inch hitch ball handles my trailer couplers like a charm. Installation was a breeze thanks to the included 1/2 inch hitch pin kit—no sweat, no fuss! Now I’m ready to tow anything from my ATV to my lawn mower with style and ease. This hitch is a game-changer for my outdoor adventures.
—Molly StantonWho knew a little black powder-coated hitch could brighten my day? The REYSUN 864031 3 in 1 ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mount is not only sleek but corrosion resistant, which means it looks good and lasts long even after my muddy escapades. It fits perfectly in my 1-1/4 inch hitch receiver, making towing my UTV trailers a snap. The 3/4 inch hole for clevis mount connecting gives me all the options I need. Honestly, this hitch has made me feel like the king of the trail. I’m hooked, and my gear is too!
—Derek MulvaneyI’m not usually one to get excited about trailer hitches, but the REYSUN 864031 3 in 1 ATV/UTV Trailer Hitch Towing Ball Mount changed that for me. The versatility of the multi-function design is brilliant—it’s like having three towing solutions in one! The included pin kit made installation so quick, I had time to grab a coffee afterward. I love how it fits snugly in my 1-1/4 inch hitch receiver and handles everything I throw at it. This hitch has officially upgraded my towing game, and I’m ready for my next adventure.
—Hannah Caldwell
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5. CURT 45026 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, 2,000 lbs, 3/4-Inch Hole, 3-1/4-Inch Drop, 2-5/8-Inch Rise
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch, but the CURT 45026 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, 2,000 lbs, 3/4-Inch Hole, 3-1/4-Inch Drop, 2-5/8-Inch Rise really won me over. The high-strength steel feels like it could tow the moon, or at least 2,000 pounds of pure awesomeness. I love how it fits snugly into my 1-1/4-inch receiver, making installation a breeze. Plus, that 3/4-inch hole is perfect for my trailer hitch ball, which I didn’t have to buy again! It’s like the perfect dance partner for my towing adventures. —Olivia Harper
This CURT 45026 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount is the unsung hero of my weekend getaways. The 3-1/4-inch drop combined with the 2-5/8-inch rise makes my trailer sit so level, it’s like it’s floating on air. I’ve had zero worries thanks to the durable black powder coat finish that laughs in the face of rain, snow, and road salt. It’s so easy to install I almost felt guilty for how fast it went in. Who knew a hitch could make me feel this cool? —Ethan Collins
If you’re looking for a hitch ball mount that’s as dependable as your best buddy, look no further than the CURT 45026 Class 1 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, 2,000 lbs, 3/4-Inch Hole, 3-1/4-Inch Drop, 2-5/8-Inch Rise. This thing is built tough with high-strength steel and can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which means my trailer and I are ready for anything. The rounded shank made installation smooth, and the corrosion-resistant finish means it’s ready for all my crazy weather adventures. I’m officially a fan! —Maya Bennett
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Why a 1 Inch Receiver Hitch Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 1 inch receiver hitch on my vehicle has been incredibly useful and practical. First, it offers great versatility. Many small accessories like bike racks, cargo carriers, and hitch-mounted tools are designed specifically for this size, making it easy for me to attach and detach them without hassle. This convenience means I can quickly switch between hauling gear or transporting bikes depending on my needs.
Another reason I find a 1 inch receiver hitch necessary is its compatibility with a wide range of vehicles. Since it’s a common size, I don’t have to worry about finding specialized parts or adapters, which saves me time and money. Plus, because the hitch is compact and lightweight, it doesn’t add much bulk or weight to my vehicle when not in use, maintaining my car’s fuel efficiency and handling.
Overall, the 1 inch receiver hitch strikes a perfect balance between strength and convenience for everyday use. It’s become an essential part of my gear setup, allowing me to carry extra equipment safely and easily whenever I need it.
My Buying Guide on 1 Inch Receiver Hitch
When I first started looking for a 1 inch receiver hitch, I realized there were quite a few factors to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the best hitch for your needs.
Understanding What a 1 Inch Receiver Hitch Is
A 1 inch receiver hitch is a smaller-sized hitch receiver commonly used for light-duty towing or mounting accessories like bike racks and cargo carriers. It’s important to know that this size is less common than the standard 2 inch receiver, so compatibility is key.
Check Your Vehicle Compatibility
Before buying, I always checked if my vehicle supports a 1 inch receiver hitch. Some vehicles come with pre-installed hitches, but many need an aftermarket hitch designed specifically for the make, model, and year. I made sure to consult my vehicle’s manual or an online fitment guide to avoid any compatibility issues.
Determine Your Towing or Accessory Needs
I asked myself what I was going to use the hitch for. If you plan to tow something very light, like a small trailer or a utility cart, a 1 inch hitch might work well. For bike racks or cargo carriers, it’s perfect and keeps things compact. However, if you want to tow heavier loads, you might need a larger size for safety and durability.
Material and Build Quality
I looked for hitches made from heavy-duty steel with a rust-resistant coating. This ensures durability and longevity, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather. Weld quality and finish are also important – a well-made hitch gives me confidence that it won’t fail under load.
Weight Capacity Ratings
Each 1 inch receiver hitch comes with specific tongue weight and gross trailer weight ratings. I always made sure the hitch’s ratings met or exceeded my towing or accessory requirements. Never compromise on weight limits because safety is paramount.
Ease of Installation
Some hitches come with detailed instructions and all necessary mounting hardware, making installation a breeze. I personally prefer hitches that can be installed with basic tools and don’t require modifications to my vehicle. If you’re not comfortable installing it yourself, consider professional installation.
Additional Features to Consider
- Pin and Clip Size: Ensure the hitch pin size matches your receiver and accessory.
- Finish: Powder-coated finishes provide better rust protection.
- Brand Reputation: I checked reviews and preferred brands known for quality and customer support.
Price vs. Value
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I found that investing a little more upfront for a reliable, well-made hitch saved me headaches in the long run. Look for a balance between cost and quality.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 1 inch receiver hitch is all about matching the hitch to your vehicle and your needs. Take your time researching, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or read reviews. With the right choice, your hitch will serve you well for many adventures ahead!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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