Recommended 4-Bike Rack For Use Behind Travel Trailer

Question:

I need a 4-bike rake that is strong enough to carry bikes on the back of a travel trailer. I had a 4-bike Saris rack, but the bounce of the trailer caused it to fail. Looking back at the warranty info, using the bike on a trailer voided the warranty. Do you carry any 4-bike racks that are strong enough to withstand the bounce of a travel trailer? Any that wont have its warranty voided if used it on the back of a trailer?

asked by: Nick J

Expert Reply:

We certainly have some options for 4-bike racks that are confirmed for use behind a travel trailer. Since the manufacturers approve the racks for use behind a travel trailer, as long as the instructions are complied with, the warranty covers the racks being used behind a trailer. Only certain bikes have been tested and approved for use behind trailers, motorhomes, or RVs.

The best option behind a trailer is to use an approved bike rack with a fixed frame, one that does not tilt down or fold up. I really like the Swagman XP 4-Bike Rack # S64940. This bike rack is approved for use behind your travel trailer and features cushioned cradles that helps keep bikes from swaying back and forth. The outermost cradle can be locked to secure your bikes to the rack. With this bike rack on a trailer or 5th wheel, the ground clearance must exceed 15 inches to comply with the warranty.

I've attached a review video and the instructions for the # S64940 bike rack for you. The instructions include a section on mounting the bike rack on a trailer.

Another great, more economical, bike rack option is the Swagman Trailhead 4-Bike Rack # S63381. This rack features anti-sway cradles to secure the bike to the rack at 3 points and help minimize bike-to-bike contact during travel. I have also linked a review video for this rack.

For a threaded hitch lock that will work with either of these bike racks to lock the rack to the hitch, you can use the Swagman Locking Anti-Rattle, Threaded Hitch Pin # S64027.