Can a Trailer Hitch Mount Bike Rack Stay Installed on a Vehicle All the Time

Question:

Is it ok to leave this bike rack or any bike rack on my car 24/7? Thank you!!!

asked by: Benjamin

Expert Reply:

In general bike rack manufacturers recommend removing a bike rack from the vehicle when not in use. That would include the Swagman XC, # S64650. But a lot of people leave the racks installed all the time too. I always remove mine when I am done with it for the day but I don't go out biking much. Someone who bikes several times a week would benefit more from having the rack installed all the time.

What you have to watch out for is the hitch pin or bolt seizing up in the hitch receiver because they can eventually rust and that can make removing the rack difficult. Periodically removing the pin and using some kind of anti-rust or seizing spray would prevent that.

expert reply by: Michael H