How To Carry E-Bikes and Flat-Tow a Vehicle on the Back of an RV

Question:

I have a Synergy RV. I have a blue ox ascent tow bar that stays mounted to the back of the RV in a horizontal position In order to use the bar I bring the bar straight up about 27” the Dow to spread the bars for towing position to hook up car. I would like to add a bike rack foe 2 70# flat tire electric bikes. What equipment would u recommend to accomplish this set up and how much space would I need behind the RV as I keep it garaged. Thanks

asked by: Faye C

Expert Reply:

In order to both carry bikes and flat-tow a vehicle at the same time, you'd need to use an adapter on the motorhomes hitch, I recommend the Roadmaster Dual Hitch Receiver Adapter like part # RM-077-2 as it's designed for this exact purpose. In order to choose the correct one, you'll need to make sure your tow bar is within 3" of level while using the adapter. The above offers a 2-1/4" drop but if you need a different one you can choose from the list below. If you don't know how much drop you need for the tow bar to be level, measure the distance from the ground to the center of the hitch on the motorhome and then again to the center of the base plate on the vehicle.

Please note, the weight of the bike rack and bikes cannot exceed the capacity of the adapter which is 400 lbs. The bike rack must also be rated for use on a motorhome. The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes part # HLY84FR is what I recommend as it's rated for use on motorhomes and it has an 80 lb per bike weigh capacity so it's perfect for electric bikes.

The adapter will add some length (10") to the setup but this length is needed to retain turning clearance. It is however easily removeable if it creates too much for your garage or parking space. The adapter and tow bar can then just be stored in the storage compartments under the motorhome.

expert reply by: Conner L

David M.

3/22/2024

I am flat towing a Toyota Matrix behind my Tiffin Wayfarer 25’ Mercedes Sprinter. The Toyota already has a 1” receiver for a bike rack, but I have been unable to find one that is safe for this receiver. Does etrailer have one that would piggyback on my Mercedes hitch, or better, just somehow attach to the back of the motor home? i am also looking for some type of vertical storage for my wing foil board and wings.

Jenny N.

4/10/2024

@DavidM These are good questions David. I am starting with the bike rack receiver question first. If your bike rack is one that can be used with a 1.25 inch hitch and a 2 inch hitch then it is possible to go onto the back of your Tiffin Wayfarer 25’ Mercedes Sprinter, as long as your are using a tow bar that slides into the hitch receiver. We have a dual hitch adapter like part # RM-077-2 that gives you the option to flat tow and use a bike rack. You will want to make sure that you are keeping the tow bar in the safe zone with the base plate [being within 3 inches above or below the base plate attachment point]. We offer the dual hitch adapters in a 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 inch rise or d r o p. As for the wing foil board and wing [ which is cool by the way ] I would not have a vertical carrier t offer. It is possible to look at horizontal carriers; the Matrix would need to have a roof rack though. I would also want the dimensions of the board along with a picture. of it. Along with the weight.

Helpful Links

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