Will The Swagman Upright Bike Rack Work With The Swagman Roamer On My 2016 Jayco Jay Series Camper

Question:

Im wondering what should be the distance in between the roof rack cross bars ideally for these bike racks. Their documentation say 28inch minimum, but nothing about maximum. Im thinking of following your advice to others and pairing these bike racks with the Swagman roamer LT crossbars. The camper has the standard 14inch opening for A/C or roof vent. I dont have A/C now, but I dont want to obstruct any future installation. Most A/C units seem to be around 36, not sure if they center on the opening. I would also like the bars far enough apart for other possible uses. I do not mind losing the space where the A/C unit would be obviously. The 14inch opening begins 5foot from the front of the trailer and goes back to about 62. Total trailer roof size is 10inch x 7. Weight distribution, A/C compatibility and bike rack inter-crossbar requirements are all considerations. Thanks!

asked by: Michael F

Expert Reply:

The ideal bar spread for your rooftop bike rack is the length that allows you to carry ALL of your accessories. I double checked some bar spread measurements for carrying kayaks. They are similar to the bike rack, so 28" should not be a problem. Swagman does not list a maximum crossbar spread, even on their website. But Yakima's version of this rooftop bike carrier, had a maximum crossbar spread of 38".

The Swagman Roamer LT Roof Rack for Pop-Up Campers and Camper Shells - Steel - 7' Long - 150 lbs, part # S80510, will fit on your 2016 Jayco Jay Series Sport Camper. It will fit, even with the AC/roof vent. Once this is in place, you can add the Swagman Upright Bike Rack for 1 Bike - Roof Rack Crossbars - Frame Mount, part # S64720.

I have included a product description link, video review links, and the installation instructions below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith