Recommended Platform-Style Bike Rack For Use on Travel Trailer

Question:

I recently purchased a travel trailer. I have a Thule model 990XT hitch bike carrier, but suspect that I am not able to use it on the back of my travel trailer bumper because it folds is that correct? I see on your website “RV approved carriers”, but don’t see where the actual rules/regulations are for RV bike rack carriers. Thanks!

asked by: Randy E

Expert Reply:

You are correct that the Thule Doubletrack Platform-Style 2 Bike Rack # TH92BJ is not rated for use behind a trailer. A folding mechanism like what is on this carrier can certainly be a weak point but it's not something that automatically rules out a rack for being able to be used in this application, as not all fold-up racks are created equal.

Whether or not a bike rack can be used at the back of a camper really just comes down to its overall construction and how it has been tested by the manufacturer. There isn't one particular component on the Doubletrack that prevents it from being used in this way other than the fact that Thule has determined that it can't quite handle the additional movement and bounce that a rack needs to withstand when being mounted to the back of a trailer.

For a similar platform rack that can be used on your camper I recommend taking a look at the Swagman Dispatch # S44FR. This carrier features ratcheting padded hooks that grip the bike's top tubes for a secure attachment and integrated locks to help protect your investments. This carrier can also still be folded up against the camper when it's not in use. It has been tested and approved for use on a trailer.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this carrier that you can check out as well.

expert reply by: Chris R