Recommended Hitch Mounted Bike Rack for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter RV
Question:
The sales person at the local bike shop said that the Thule isnt intended for an RV too much bounce. But you say that its fine for that purpose. Have you ever heard of one failing? Does the Thule warranty apply to a Sprinter application. Is there a better e.g. safer alternative? NOTE: well never carry more than two bikes.
asked by: Greg
Expert Reply:
The local bike shop was correct in saying that the Thule Apex Swing 4 Bike Rack, # TH9027, and we don't recommend it for an RV application either. RV's in general have more movement at the rear because the distance to the hitch receiver is further from the rear axle. Fewer moving parts on the rack helps isolate possible wobble and wear on that hitch receiver and the bike rack itself.
One of the nicest bike racks for an RV is the Swagman XP, # S64940. This rack carries up to 4 bikes and the cradles secure bike sto the rack using thick, kraton vinyl cushioning and steel plates. The locking knob secures the bikes to the rack. With this rack, I'd recommend the cable lock as well as the Locking Anti-Rattle Threaded Hitch Pin, # S64027. I also suggest using a Frame Adapter for Women's, Children's and Alternative Bike Frames, # 64005. This allows all bikes without a top rail to ride level for a safer transport.
For a more cost effective option, my recommendation for an RV safe 2 bike rack is the Swagman XC # S64650 along with locks # S64031.
Products Referenced in This Question
Locking Anti-Rattle, Threaded Hitch Pin for Swagman 2" Hitch Racks
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Rack Specific Locks
- Keyed Unique
- Chrome
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Threaded Pin
- For Swagman Racks
- 4-1/2 Inch Span
- Swagman
more information >
Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable for Swagman Bike Racks w/ 1-1/4" & Combo Shanks - 7'
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Rack Specific Locks
- Keyed Unique
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Threaded Pin
- For Swagman Racks
- 2-3/4 Inch Span
- Swagman
more information >
Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Frame Mount
- Locks Not Included
- 2 Bikes
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Swagman
more information >
Swagman XP RV Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches
- RV and Camper Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- RV Hitch Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike Lock
- 4 Bikes
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Motorhome
- Travel Trailer
- Fifth Wheel
- Flat-Towed Vehicle
- Swagman
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Adapter Bar
- Frame
- 24-3/8 - 33-3/4 Inch Long
- Swagman
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Front Door Lock Assembly Replacement for Keystone Montana 5th Wheel
- Q&A: Options for Adding Interior Lighting to Enclosed Cargo Trailer
- Q&A: How to Power Trailer Dome Light When Not Connected to Tow Vehicle
- Q&A: Replacement for FIC Door Latch on RV
- Q&A: Replacement Multi-Function LED Trailer Light for Glo-Brite 9852-88
- Q&A: Recommended Dexter Suspension Kit 7753400
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
- Q&A: Installation Of Hayes Air Actuated Trailer Brake Controller
- Article: Rolling on a Budget: Top Wallet-Friendly Platform Bike Racks
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: How to Choose a Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack
- Article: How to Carry Bikes While Towing a Travel Trailer
- Article: What is an RV-Approved Bike Rack? (And Do You REALLY Need One?)