I am considering a hitch on my 2002 "S" so I can haul race tires etc easily. Obviously the hitch will add rear weight. My concern is how it may effect handling on the track. On one hand, I would think the hitch weight sitting rearward would actually help promote rotation. Then again, added weight is always a liability. (My wife always reminds me of this, generally pointing to my butt). If anyone could give me some input on the use of hitches on Solo II Minis , I could sure use some advise. Thanks.

 

I am considering the same thing. The logic I am using to convince myself is this:

1. A hitch should only add about 15-20 lbs.
2. Being in the rear it should move the F/R ratio backwards a bit
3. Being mounted low it should actually lower the center of gravity.

Of course I could be delusional.

 

I alway heard the best place to lose 20lbs on the car is in the driver's seat.

 

I just take the keg out of the car before the race.

 

Might want to check these guys out. The now make a hitch for the Mini.

http://www.curtmfg.com/

 

http://www.miniaturetrailer.com/

Top notch fit / construction... you take a 10 pound piece of steel off, and replace it with a 12 pound piece. My only gripe is that you need to be creative about the safety chain. I have tried every hitch solution out there and this is by far the best, with no real weight penalty.

 

Thanks all. I have been very impressed with what I have read about the products from "Miniature Trailers". What I am really curious about is changed handling on the track as a result of added or repositioned weight. We are talking a fair chunk of change for this set up, and want to get actual impressions about it's use if possible. I do understand running with a hitch is legal in SCCA "Stock" classes.

 

Its quite the dilema.
These guys http://www.curtmfg.com/ Although make a BMW/Mini Trailer hitch; its mounted underneath the bumber and with the Mini's low clearance your gonna scrap on every speed bump.
Minidomore however is a little pricey for the product. they seem to be taking advantage of being the only one with a solution of going thru the bumber with out major irreversible sugery to the bumber (Such as MiniFini.) Their choice and I don't fault them for trying to make a buck.
Makes it difficult to commit for me with the price as it is. I think they would sell more if the price was a little less. Also the wiring harnes can be had for about 2/3rds of the price they sell it for. With a little research I found it online.

 

I race with several Mazadas that have hitches.

 

Yep. The http://www.curtmfg.com/ is about half the price. But clearance could be an issue.

 

The miniaturetrailers hitch is by far the strongest, (I've had the others rip the trunk outta the car) Installation is reversable if you want to take it off, but why would you, since it is invisable (concealed by the plastic foglight cover) when installed, and if you can feel the difference in (net) 2 pounds extra weight, I will sign over the title to my car to you.

 

Thanks for the input. I concede to the two pound issue. Thanks all.