Can a Towing Bike Rack be Used with a Weight Distribution System
Question:
Good day, I am interested in the ball mount rack but need to know if it will work with the current situation I have. As it stands, I use my 2inch receiver to tow our jayco 19 foot expandable trailer. I have the weight distribution unit on this so I can tow safely. What I want to do is find a two or three bike ball mount bike rack or any bike rack to tow our bikes. I have a 3/4inch hole in the bumper from the factory tow package addition to the 2inch receiver on my 2006 dodge Dakota 4 door quad cab truck. Can I use this product or can I use a clamp on style rack safely? I have attached a photo of my bumper showing the hole and 2inch receiver. I want to use the bed of the truck for cargo hence finding a rack. Thank you for your time.
asked by: Cheryl
Helpful Expert Reply:
checked with my technical contact at one of the primary manufacturers of weight distribution systems about using a towing-type bike rack on an extra-long weight distribution shank. My contact advised that they simply do not test such combinations. They do not expressly warn against it, but nor can they provide any assurance of compatibility.
We do offer extra-long weight distribution shanks; these can be seen on the link provided. Please note that many of these long shanks use a reinforcing gusset that might interfere with mounting a towing-type bike rack. One shank offered by Reese, part # RP3214, measures 16-inches overall and does provide 7-inches of space between the hitch pin hole and the reinforcing gusset. Please refer to the photo provided which indicates dimensions.
Do please note that if a towing-type bike carrier is installed on the weight distribution shank there will be reduced turning clearance between the tow vehicle and trailer. Also, the weight of the bike carrier itself and the loaded bikes will slightly increase the tongue weight of the combined system as seen by the hitch receiver.
For a bike rack that would fit the 2 inch shank you would want something like the part # S64664. I attached a review video for you to check out as well.
