Compatibility of Hitch-Mount Bike Rack with 2015 Airstream Flying Cloud Travel Trailer

Question:

Will this be ok on a 2015 airstream flying cloud? frame appears to extend out the rear, but is the side walls of the storage compartment the true frame and strong enough. airtstream wants to sell me a bike rack but I already have one that I can move between vehicle and trailer if i can mount a 2 inch receiver

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

A hitch-mount bike rack designed for use on a passenger car cannot be used on the back of a trailer like your 2015 Airstream Flying Cloud. The vertical and horizontal forces at the rear of a trailer are far more severe than at the back of a typical passenger vehicle due to the greater distance between the rear axle and the rack. In the same way that the last seat row on a bus gets a rougher ride than those up front, a bike rack installed in a hitch on the back of a trailer will have far more stress put on it. This is why racks for use on RVs and motor homes must be built with extra strength to withstand those forces. Before you install your hitch make sure the rack you intend to use is rated for use on the back of a trailer.

The linked page will let you see all RV-approved bike racks which include hitch-mount types, as well as bumper-mount and ladder-mount varieties. One of these other types may be a better option.

I checked the Airstream website for specs on your trailer's frame but none are provided. Frame-mount hitches must be installed on the actual frame members, not on any extensions that might be used to support other trailer structures like a storage compartment. Also note that the Curt hitch you referenced # 13703 if used with a bike rack must be supported by a stabilizing strap # 18050 or you risk voiding your hitch warranty.

Your trailer does appear to have an exposed bumper that would allow installation of a bumper-mount rack like the Swagman # S64663 as long as the bumper is continuously welded and not just spot welded. You can check this with your Airstream dealer.

I do have another unique option for you based on a great new item from Stromberg Carlson, their Bike Bunk # CC-275. This mounts to the nose of your A-frame trailer (and fits any frame width from 14- to 55-inches). With this item installed you can use any RV-rated 2-inch hitch bike rack. Your turning clearance may be affected depending on the specific rack and the size of your bikes.