Can the Swagman XTC4 # S64665 Bike Rack be Carried on a Front Mount Trailer Hitch

Question:

Im wondering if the Swagman XTC4 can be mounted on a front mount hitch or is it too large? Stick out too far?

asked by: Terry

Expert Reply:

The Swagman XTC4 bike rack, part # S64665, should work on a front mounted hitch, but there would be a few deciding factors.

First, the XTC4 does have a shipping weight of 66 pounds, so you would need to make sure that the weight of the bike rack, plus the weight of the bikes you will carry will not exceed the tongue weight rating of the front hitch.

Second, you would need to make sure that your bikes will not interfere with your vision when driving. The XTC4 has a raised shank, so I would measure up about 3 inches from the top of your hitch opening, and then add the height of your bikes. If the bikes would come up over the hood and impair your vision, it would not be advised to use the bike carrier on the front of your vehicle.

Since the # S64665 rack is a platform style, it will stick out a good amount from the front of your vehicle, but you will want to make sure it does not stick out too far. You can judge the distance to determine whether this would work for your application. The bike rack will measure 12-3/4 inches from the hitch pin hole to the first wheel loop where a bike will sit. You can add this to the width of your bike handlebars to get an idea of where the rack would end in front of the vehicle.

I have included links to the bike rack installation instructions as well as a demonstration video below.

expert reply by: Sarah L