Transporting an e-bike to a desired destination requires using an e-bike rack mount. It’s a specialised bike rack with a hitch receiver tube. However, the hitch receiver tube comes in two sizes: a 2-inch and a 1¼-inch.

The size of the hitch receiver tube affects the weight capacity the e-bike rack mount can bear. Additionally, size affects stability and compatibility with the vehicles. The hitch receiver tube size also affects the ease of installation of the whole e-bike rack mount.

This guide will explore the differences between the two sizes of e-bike rack mount hitch receiver tubes so that travellers can choose an option that serves their intended purpose.

Understanding Ebike Rack Mount Sizes

The vehicle transporting an e-bike has a hitch receiver for the rack mount. The vehicle’s hitch receiver plays an important role because it determines the choice of an e-bike rack mount. Travellers can have two sizes of hitch receivers on their vehicles:

• 2-inch Hitch Receiver
• 1¼-inch Hitch receiver

An e-bike rack mount has a hitch receiver tube that is the same size as the hitch receiver on the traveller’s vehicle. A traveller looking to transport their electric road bike will choose a rack mount with a receiver tube compatible with the hitch receiver on their vehicle.

Since e-bike rack mounts can either fit on 2-inch or 1 1⁄4-inch Hit receivers, they come in two sizes. Therefore, e-bike rack mount sizes are about the size of the hitch receiver tube.

Comparing 2-Inch vs. 1-1/4 Inch Mounts

It comes down to two size options of e-bike rack mounts for travellers. Knowing the differences between the two sizes helps travellers choose an option that safely bears the weight of their electric road bike.

2-Inch Receiver Mounts

This e-bike rack mount is designed to fit on the 2-inch hitch receiver of the traveller’s vehicle. This option supports up to 300 pounds or more, making it a great choice for heavier e-bikes. Additionally, this rack mount size is compatible with trucks, SUVs, and larger vehicles.

Since the hitch receiver tube fits a 2-inch hitch receiver on the vehicle, this rack mount is more stable since the connection is more secure. What’s more, some brands of this rack mount size come with a ramp for effortless loading and an anti-sway for secure e-bike mount.

1¼-Inch Receiver Mounts

This e-bike rack mount attaches to vehicles with a hitch receiver of the same size. It’s an ideal choice for e-bikes weighing 200 pounds or less. Travellers with smaller cars and crossovers will choose this option because of the size of the hitch receiver on the small cars.

While this e-bike rack mount fits securely on the hitch receiver, it doesn't compare to the 2-inch rack mount in a secure fit. This option also includes features like the ramp and anti-sway cradles.

Adapters and Solutions

Pixabay

A traveller with a truck or a larger vehicle can still buy a 1¼-inch e-bike rack mount and use a hitch receiver adapter to attach the smaller rack mount to the big truck. 

An adapter converts the hitch receiver tube of the e-bike rack mount to the size of your vehicle’s hitch receiver. The adapter helps the traveller tow an e-bike with a rack mount compatible with the weight capacity.

Choosing the Right Mount for Your Ebike

Choosing the right option comes down to knowing the features to look for in an e-bike rack mount. The first thing is the weight capacity. Heavier e-bikes weighing 300 lbs or more require a 2-inch rack mount. 

Lighter e-bikes require 1¼-inch rack mounts. Compatibility with the vehicle is another important factor. Larger trucks have 2-inch hitch receivers. On the other hand, smaller cars have a 1 ¼-inch hitch receiver.

Conclusion

Choosing the right size for an e-bike rack mount requires the traveller to know the weight of the electric road bike. Heavier e-bikes require an e-bike rack mount with a larger size. Also, a good choice comes down to the type of vehicle that will haul the e-bike. Travellers can use adapters to make the vehicle and the rack mount compatible.

When it comes to destination weddings, Croatia has become an increasingly popular choice for couples from all around the world. With its stunning Adriatic coastline, crystal-clear waters, historic cities, and unparalleled natural beauty, Croatia offers a picture-perfect backdrop for exchanging vows. Dubrovnik has long been the leading destination for foreign couples seeking a magical wedding setting, but in recent years, the Dalmatian coast as a whole is seeing a surge in popularity. From the charming coastal towns to picturesque islands, more and more couples are opting for the stunning beauty of Dalmatia to celebrate their love.

What Couples Can Expect When Getting Married in Croatia

Getting married in Croatia is a dream for many couples seeking a unique and memorable wedding experience. From the moment couples choose this destination, they can expect exceptional services, professional wedding planners, and unforgettable venues. Croatia is known for its seamless wedding process, with numerous vendors offering everything from flowers and photography to music and catering.

Couples planning a wedding in Croatia can look forward to a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. For those who want to wed in historical venues, Dubrovnik offers a rich history and magnificent medieval architecture, including stunning churches, palaces, and fortresses. For those seeking something more intimate and secluded, the Dalmatian islands offer a range of luxury villas and charming small towns nestled along the coast, providing a more relaxed and personalized experience.

The Croatian wedding process is relatively straightforward for foreign couples. While getting married in Croatia requires certain documents, including birth certificates, passports, and proof of single status (or divorce or death certificates, if applicable), it is generally simple to arrange with the help of local wedding planners who are experts in handling all the legal requirements. English is widely spoken, making communication easy for couples from around the world. And Zeljana Udovicic Stambuk, owner of Chic Croatia one of the leading wedding agencies on the Croatian coast, commented that, “Even though it is relatively easy to get married legally, requiring additional paperwork with extra cost, we notice the trend of more and more couples looking for a symbolic ceremony, a non-legally binding ceremony that allows them more flexibility and to have a ceremony in a more personalized way.”

Why Croatia?

So, why has Croatia become such a sought-after destination for weddings? One of the key factors is its natural beauty. Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic beaches. The country offers a diverse range of stunning venues, from historical cities like Dubrovnik to coastal towns and even private islands. Whether couples dream of a grand affair in a centuries-old church or a more intimate ceremony on a secluded beach, Croatia offers the perfect venue for every type of celebration.

Additionally, Croatia's warm Mediterranean climate plays a significant role in its rise as a top wedding destination. The weather, especially along the Dalmatian coast, is generally sunny and pleasant, making it an ideal location for an outdoor wedding. The summer months are popular, though the shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn also offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

The Rising Popularity of Dalmatia

While Dubrovnik has been the mainstay for couples getting married in Croatia, the Dalmatian coastline is quickly catching up. Cities like Split, Zadar, and Šibenik, along with the many islands that dot the coast, are becoming increasingly attractive wedding destinations. Why? The answer lies in the diverse range of locations and experiences available in Dalmatia. “Split offers a unique blend of ancient history, Mediterranean ambiance, and breath-taking natural scenery, making it a top choice for couples looking for a wedding destination. Couples are drawn to its rich cultural heritage, centred around the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, which creates a stunning background that is both historical and romantic,” explained the Split Tourist Board.

For one, the region offers a wider variety of wedding venues. From the historic charm of Split’s Diocletian's Palace to the stunning views of the Adriatic from a villa in Hvar, Dalmatia provides more options for couples looking for something different. “The city also boasts a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere that allows couples and their guests to enjoy a memorable experience, complemented by the warmth of the local people and excellent culinary offerings,” added the Split Tourist Board. And one venue that is extremely attractive is the Villa Dalmacija. “Villa Dalmacija, built in 1938 as a hotel, has a fascinating history as it served for many years as the summer residence of the Yugoslav president, Josip Broz Tito.

Today, the villa is owned by the City of Split and serves as a diplomatic venue. It is also available for various events, including weddings, receptions, symposia, and private gatherings. Located by the sea in a secluded bay, it offers unparalleled privacy. It can be accessed by road or a short boat ride from the city’s main port. The villa’s terrace can host up to 140 guests, while its indoor hall can accommodate an additional 140, making it ideal for intimate and larger celebrations.” commented the Split Tourist Board. Imagine catching a private boat to a spectacular summer villa for a wedding. Now, you can see why it is so popular.

Zeljana Udovicic Stambuk commented that, “There is a high demand for weddings in Central Dalmatia, especially for the city of Split and its renowned villa Dalmacija, but also for the islands, such as island of Hvar, Vis, and Brac. Villa Dalmacija is one of the most elegant, beachfront venues in this part of Croatia, offering superb views and privacy for wedding guests so it is no surprise that it is one of the most sought-after venues.”

Which Nationalities Choose Croatia?

One of the unique aspects of Croatia as a wedding destination is its global appeal. While many couples come from nearby European countries, particularly from the UK, Germany, Italy, and France, Croatia has become increasingly popular among couples from the United States, Canada, Australia, and beyond. The country’s reputation for breathtaking landscapes, exceptional cuisine, and reliable services has made it a go-to destination for couples seeking something truly unique. And in recent years there have been quite a few celebrity weddings in the south of Croatia.

Just this year Rod Stewart was in Dubrovnik for the wedding of his son Liam, and the Croatian tennis star Marin Čilić also tied the knot in Cavtat, not to mention the NBA star Bojan Bogdanović. The Dubrovnik Tourist Board stated that over the past few years around 300 foreign weddings and ceremonies are held on an annual basis.

And Ines Nanić, the owner and founder of Dubrovnik Event stated that, “Dubrovnik has become a premier wedding destination in Croatia, mostly due to its incredible capability of blending its rich history with the newest wedding trends. Let’s not forget the power of direct flights from the US which has really been a game changer for our industry of destination weddings in Dubrovnik.”

Furthermore, the convenience of direct flights to Croatia from many countries has made it more accessible than ever. Major airports in cities like Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar offer numerous international connections, and airlines are increasing routes to meet the growing demand for travel to the region.

The Weather Factor

When choosing a destination for a wedding, weather is always a key consideration. Croatia, particularly the Dalmatian coast, boasts a Mediterranean climate that is ideal for outdoor weddings. The long summers, with their abundant sunshine and mild temperatures, make it perfect for beach ceremonies or sunset receptions on terraces overlooking the sea.

And Ines Nanić added that “Imagine saying “I do” amid the timeless stone walls, medieval fortresses, and cliffside terraces overlooking our beautiful blue sea and backdrop of the Old City of Dubrovnik! We can certainly say that we are on trend and we feel the love that Dubrovnik has gained as a destination in every sense. Our agency - Dubrovnik Event - specializes in crafting seamless, specially curated dream weddings, taking care of every detail—from the legal requirements to finding that hidden gem of a location that feels personal and exclusive for our clients.”

The warm weather also means that couples can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the stunning landscapes around them, from boat trips around the islands to wine tours in the surrounding vineyards. The mild winters, on the other hand, make for a unique off-season wedding option for those who prefer fewer crowds and lower prices.

Top Locations for a Croatian Wedding

While Dubrovnik remains the most popular destination for a wedding in Croatia, Dalmatia is full of other breathtaking options. Here are some of the top locations for a wedding in the region:

1. Split – With its ancient Roman architecture and stunning coastline, Split offers a unique blend of history and beauty.

2. Hvar – Known for its glamorous atmosphere, Hvar is a top choice for couples seeking a chic and trendy wedding experience.

3. Vis – A quieter, more secluded island, Vis offers stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.

4. Korčula – With its charming medieval town and beautiful beaches, Korčula is a hidden gem for a wedding by the sea.

5. Šibenik – A lesser-known but equally beautiful location, Šibenik offers a mix of historic charm and stunning seaside views.

Why Getting Married in Croatia Is a Great Option

For couples seeking a destination wedding, Croatia offers a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, exceptional services, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether in Dubrovnik or the up-and-coming destinations along the Dalmatian coast, couples can enjoy a memorable celebration with their closest family and friends. Croatia’s combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and modern amenities makes it an ideal location for a wedding that will be cherished for a lifetime.

So, while Dubrovnik may still be the first choice, it’s clear that Dalmatia is quickly closing the gap as a top destination for couples dreaming of a wedding on the Adriatic.

Photos by - Jireh weddings/Milos weddings/Futopia

Here we are, basking in the warm embrace of Dubrovnik’s so-called "Indian Summer," a term we Brits have romanticized to mean, “sunshine that’s arrived fashionably late.”

The thermometer still flirts with the twenties, and as of today, the Adriatic Sea tempts at a balmy 21 degrees Celsius. Yes, the same sea temperature that ushers in swarms of holidaymakers each May and June, yet now—at peak November—those sandy stretches are practically deserted.

My wife swims every day, enjoying the blissful solitude.

And all the while, the city is slipping quietly into hibernation as though the sun hadn’t noticed. It’s as if Dubrovnik itself has decided to roll up its shutters for winter, just as Mother Nature serves up a final, glorious encore.

So, why the English call it an "Indian Summer" remains one of our finer linguistic mysteries, doesn’t it? Some say it’s borrowed from the Native American practice of late-season hunting, others attribute it to English colonists encountering unexpected heat while abroad. Either way, “Indian Summer” brings with it images of a gentle, glowing warmth—just like the one Dubrovnik now flaunts, completely out of season.

All around, there’s a sleepy quiet, with hotels and restaurants locked up as if following some cosmic law, despite the beaming sunshine. Yes, Dubrovnik in November is like showing up to a wedding after everyone else has gone home, only to find that the caterers forgot to pack up the cake.

Meanwhile, this splendid stretch of “Indian Summer” sunshine hangs over the city, a lingering gift that seems almost misplaced.

“The Earth has music for those who listen,” wrote Shakespeare, and Dubrovnik seems to be performing one final symphony for those willing to pause and soak it in. Here, among the empty beaches and whispering waves, it’s hard to ignore the beauty of this unexpected warmth—even if it's a sign of climate's unsettling shifts.

And yet, despite the weather, Dubrovnik’s Old City looks poised for a Christmas photo shoot.

Lights and decorations have been strung along the Stradun and I have expected to stumble upon a nativity scene sweating it out in the Mediterranean heat.

The juxtaposition of mistletoe and sunscreen is a surreal one, even for those accustomed to Dubrovnik’s idiosyncrasies. And it raises a curious thought: has the weather changed, or are we simply in denial? Here we are, beach towels over one shoulder, ready to dip in the sea, while the city scurries into “winter mode” as though it were a Siberian outpost and not a stone’s throw from the equator.

Perhaps this paradox can be traced back to some seasonal rite of passage for tourist towns. Like migratory birds, Dubrovnik’s hospitality industry follows its own internal calendar, one that has nothing to do with what the thermometer says. October 31 hits, and, poof, the restaurants vanish, the bars evaporate, and even the tour boats suddenly stop rocking in the harbor. It’s like watching a magic trick you didn’t ask for.

All that’s left are a few brave souls, relishing the empty beaches and laughing quietly at the irony of it all.

And don’t get me started on the hotel closures. Some are shuttered with the same gravitas reserved for bank vaults, as though any rogue guest who might turn up could threaten the city’s delicate off-season ecosystem.

Dubrovnik’s Indian Summer has become a stage for a rather ironic little show, one that only a city on the edge of both history and climate reality could pull off.

In this bizarre seasonal limbo, “To everything there is a season,” as Ecclesiastes might remind us.

Dubrovnik’s off-season, however, doesn’t seem to know what that is anymore. Global warming has turned it into something stranger and harder to predict—a never-ending twilight of beach days and Christmas lights. In truth, it’s a climate change fairytale. Tourists might have gone, but the temperatures haven’t. My wife’s ritual dip in the Adriatic each morning is proof of this stubborn climate anomaly.

Her pool? The vast, turquoise sea, under the watchful gaze of an empty lifeguard chair.

She has a swimmer’s grin that only a deserted beach in 21-degree water can provide, while I, ever the British commentator, marvel at our private paradise. And there’s a strange comfort in knowing that, while the beach bars may be closed, nature hasn’t let us down. In our unplanned Indian Summer, we find ourselves “catching the sun,” to borrow a line from J.M. Barrie, almost like children.

Read more Englishman in Dubrovnik…well, if you really want to

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About the author

Mark Thomas (aka Englez u Dubrovniku) is the editor of The Dubrovnik Times. He was born and educated in the UK and moved to live in Dubrovnik in 1998. He works across a whole range of media, from a daily radio show to TV and in print. Thomas is fluent in Croatian and this column is available in Croatia on the website – Dubrovnik Vjesnik

Can you actually fly to Dubrovnik this winter? Yes, tourists to the south of Croatia are so used to the Dubrovnik Airport practically hibernating over the winter period that most don’t even plan to visit. But this year times are a changing. The winter tourism conundrum that has baffled the city for decades could, at least on face value, be coming to an end. Ok, it isn’t the end, but it just might be the beginning of the end.

Not a typical winter sun destination

Dubrovnik isn’t really one of those typical “winter sun” destinations like Tenerife, Madeira or Malta, it just doesn’t have the geographical dispersion to be basking in sun in January. And even though November this year has started extremely mild it would be unusual that the beginning of the year carries on in the same vein. However, the winter tourism offer of Dubrovnik shouldn’t be based on the temperature, rather the uniqueness of the historic Old City.

Dubrovnik Airport has succeeded in attracting a wide range of airlines and destinations this winter, from Brussels to Barcelona and from Warsaw to London. Of course, a great deal of the winter flight offering to Dubrovnik is thanks to the low-cost Irish airline Ryanair, which over the cooler months will connect Dubrovnik to three major European cities. For example, Ryanair is currently offering return flights from Dubrovnik to Brussels for just under 30 euros!

The Dubrovnik Airport winter flight schedule runs from the 27.10.2024 to the 29.03.2025.

And flights over the winter period from Dubrovnik include –

• Brussels (Charleroi) with Ryanair – twice a week until the 28.03.2025

• Dublin with Aer Lingus – once a week and check airline’s website for exact dates

• Barcelona with Vueling – twice a week but again check the airline’s website for dates

• Frankfurt with Croatia Airlines – twice a week (minimum)

• London Gatwick with EasyJet – twice a week until the end of November and then restarting from the beginning of February

• London Stanstead with Ryanair – twice a week until the end of March

• Madrid with Iberia - twice a week until the end of November and then restarting from the beginning of February

• Manchester with EasyJet – twice a week until the end of November and then restarting late February

• Vienna with Ryanair – twice a week until the end of March

• Warsaw with LOT - twice a week but again check the airline’s website for dates

Please check directly with each airline before booking as dates and times could vary. And bear in mind there is also the possibility of cancellations.

And as far as internal flights are concerned there is the daily link from Dubrovnik to Zagreb operated by Croatia Airlines which flies three to four times daily. Apart from connecting you to the capital it also provides a starting point for flights from Zagreb to other destinations.

In fact, Dubrovnik Airport is on course for its best ever year in terms of passenger numbers and these added winter connections will certainly help boost the city’s winter tourism.

Great news for Croatia comes from London, specifically from Wanderlust, one of the UK’s most prestigious travel media outlets. At the Wanderlust Travel Awards 2024, held at the renowned Tate Modern gallery, Croatia won silver in the category of Most Desirable European Destinations, surpassing France, Spain, and Greece.

Croatia’s islands also took silver in the Most Desirable Region category, while Dubrovnik won bronze as one of the most desirable cities, and Hvar ranked 5th in the most desirable islands category.

“These four major awards prove that our country and its destinations are at the top of Europe’s most desirable travel locations, confirming the undeniable success of Croatian tourism on a global scale. This recognition is even more valuable knowing that it comes from Wanderlust readers, many of whom have likely visited Croatia, while others will be inspired to do so after this acknowledgment,” said Kristjan Staničić, Director of the Croatian National Tourist Board.

Croatia’s excellent status is further confirmed by the fact that it consistently ranks among Wanderlust's top destinations. After last year’s gold triumph, this year’s four awards reflect Croatia’s well-established reputation in European tourism.

“We are incredibly proud that Wanderlust readers—curious, engaged travelers—have ranked us among Europe’s top destinations. These four awards motivate us to promote not only Croatia’s hidden gems but also its well-known regions. Our goal is to preserve the authenticity and diversity of Croatian landscapes, which provide the perfect backdrop for various types of tourism enjoyed by all visitors,” said Bisera Fabrio, Director of the HTZ London Office.

According to data from the eVisitor system, nearly 2,700 guests are currently vacationing in Dubrovnik, which is a 24 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

The most numerous visitors are from Croatia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Since the beginning of the year, Dubrovnik has recorded 1,308,500 tourist arrivals and 4,171,000 overnight stays, marking a 10 percent improvement over the same period in 2023.

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković stated on Friday in Budapest that a peaceful solution for Ukraine must include the territorial integrity of the country as well as fundamental principles and values.

“If that peace includes the territorial integrity of Ukraine and embodies the core values and principles we stand by, then we are certainly positioned to reach a shared solution,” Plenković said upon arrival at the informal EU summit in Budapest.

After the European Political Community summit on Thursday evening, EU leaders gathered for a working dinner to discuss transatlantic relations following Donald Trump's election as U.S. president, security challenges, Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and the situation in Georgia.

Will Trump keep commitment to end war in Ukraine in 24 hours 

On Friday, EU leaders are discussing economic competitiveness. Trump stated clearly in his campaign that he would end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours, and many believe that this would involve a deal in which Ukraine would concede ground already lost to Russia since the war began. And Trump was certainly closer to Putin than President Biden has been over his term in office.

In fact, Putin was one of the first world leaders to congratulate Donald Trump on his win, calling him “a brave man” for his reaction after the assassination attempt back in July this year. Commentators have gone one step further stating that the Kremlin is overjoyed that Trump, who they see as an ally, has won the 2024 Presidential Election.

When asked whether the leaders of all member states share the view that peace in Ukraine must include the country’s territorial integrity, Plenković said that the majority agree.

“The vast majority believe there are certain foundations upon which the modern world is built—global governance, international law—and I think there’s no doubt about that. Anything else would be a departure from our own principles,” Plenković added.

Photo - X/Vlada

Orban and Zelensky clash 

He further noted that there is “broad commitment from all to continue giving strong support to Ukraine in all possible aspects, as has been done so far—politically, economically, financially, humanitarian-wise, and militarily.”

On Thursday, following the European Political Community summit, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held separate press conferences presenting entirely different views on the potential end of the war in Ukraine.

Orban stated that a ceasefire is necessary to allow space and time for the warring parties to communicate and begin peace negotiations. He noted that EU citizens are increasingly reluctant to finance the war and that Trump’s election as U.S. president has opened a new path to address this issue.

In a separate press conference, Zelensky called Orban’s proposals “dangerous and irresponsible.”

He emphasized that a ceasefire can only happen once war victims have security guarantees. “In this regard, Orban’s opposition to Ukraine joining NATO while simultaneously calling for a ceasefire is absurd,” Zelensky stated.

Before the start of the informal EU summit on Friday, Orban said that the EU must rethink its support for Ukraine after Trump’s election as U.S. president.

“Europe cannot finance this war alone. Some still want to continue sending vast sums of money into a lost war, but the number of those who are silent and cautiously argue that we need to adapt to the new situation is growing,” Orban said.

Dubrovnik has gained a true promenade stretching from Gruž to Babin Kuk, with an increasing number of locals enjoying leisurely strolls along this scenic route. The renovated and widened Lapad Coastline, already boasts greenery with newly planted mulberry trees, and soon Gruž’s waterfront will also be enriched with fresh vegetation.

In addition to plans to replace trees on the Boulevard in King Tomislav Street, a tree-lined pathway is set to be planted in Gruž next summer. The waterfront in Gruž will be undergoing renovations, and as part of these updates, new trees will be planted along the way.

The landscaping project is being led by Dubrovnik's Landa Studio. 

"The new tree line will consist of deciduous and evergreen species chosen for their adaptability to microclimatic and urban conditions along Ivana Pavla II Coast and Stjepana Radića Coast, divided into three zones," explained the studio. The first zone extends from the Solska Base to Lujo Šoletić Park, with minor upgrades planned and new trees planted within existing green areas. In front of the Solska Base, a new line of 12 Celtis australis (European nettle trees) will be planted as part of the second phase of work, aligned with ongoing infrastructure projects in that zone.

The European nettle tree was selected for its resilience to drought and urban conditions, as well as its positive ecological benefits such as carbon dioxide absorption and reduction of urban heat. Its dense canopy provides abundant shade, helping to lower city temperatures, especially in areas dominated by concrete and asphalt, noted Landa Studio.