Recommended Hitch for Installing Swagman Dispatch 2 Platform Rack S44FR on Travel Trailer

Question:

I have a travel trailer with a 4-inch square bumper with the spare tire mounted to the bumper. The spare extends 12-inches out from the bumper.I would like a bike rack that can carry 2 bikes. Would the Swagman S44FR bike rack and the Curt RV bumper trailer hitch receiver be a good choice? Will the bike rack loaded with bikes provide enough clearance for the spare? Thanks!

asked by: Ray B

Helpful Expert Reply:

Curt's bumper-mount hitch # E-100 will fit your trailer's 4 x 4 square bumper but since it requires a stabilizing strap # 18050 be used with a bike rack, instead I suggest the # UF35-946402 hitch from Ultra-Fab which costs less, offers the same 350-lb tongue weight (TW) capacity and does not require you to use a support strap to help hold the rack's weight.

The Swagman Dispatch 2 platform rack # S44FR is an excellent choice. It will fit this hitch and provide both 6-1/2-inches of rise for better ground clearance behind the trailer and a full 18-inches of space between the hitch pin hole and the nearest wheel cradle, plenty to clear your spare tire.

If your spare tire mount is moveable, potentially you may find that you'll have a better overall fit for the rack and bikes by shifting the tire carrier slightly to one side.

expert reply by: Adam R