Recommended Bumper Mounted Hitch And 4-Bike Carrier For Travel Trailer With Bumper Mounted Spare

Question:

I have a 2015 Salem 26tbud travel trailer with a Steele rear bumper. The spare tire is attached to the 4inch bumper and I would like to keep it while adding a bike rack and mount. The bike rack would need to hold 4 bikes 2 large adult cruisers and 2 childrens bikes with training wheels. The rack doesnt need to swivel. Please advise which rack and mount you would recommend, thanks!

asked by: Brad

Expert Reply:

You will need to check with the trailer dealer or manufacturer to see what the bumper weight capacity is for your trailer. This would be important because you have already got a spare tire mounted and want to add a rack and 4 bikes.

If your bumper can handle it I recommend a bumper mount hitch like part # E-100 first. This is designed for 4 inch square bumpers like you mentioned you have on your trailer. It has a 2 inch receiver opening.

The bike carrier I recommend is the Swagman Trailhead, part # S63380. This carrier has two arms that fold down when the bikes are unloaded. It has rubber straps that secure the bikes to the cradles. The weight capacity for this bike rack is 35 lbs per bike.

I like the Trailhead more than the Swagman Original, part # S64400 bike carrier because of the dual arms which will hold the bikes more secure in the carrier, and it is very similar in price. The distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the edge of the carrier on the # S63380 is 9-1/2 inches versus the 14-1/2 inches on the # S64400. This gives you fewer inches of clearance from the bumper mounted spare you have, though.

When carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes I recommend using an adapter bar like part # 64005. This attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carried more level in the carrier while providing additional ground clearance. I have attached a product review video for this adapter bar.