Recommended Bike Racks for 2014 Forest River Flagstaff RV

Question:

What is the best suggestions you have on carrying two or three bikes for a 2014 Forest River RV Flagstaff MAC LTD Series 246D. I do not want to carry the bikes between the truck and camper. Tried that already with a hitch extension and the camper sways and I also loose about 2-3 miles per gallon. I assume the tongue wait has increased using this method. I currently have two tanks and battery mounted up front on the pop up. I two the trailer with a 2017 Canyon GMC. I currently own a Swagman 4 Bike Bicycle Cycling Car Truck SUV Rack Carrier 2inch Trailer Hitch Mount model 64400. What do you suggest ?

asked by: Ed D

Expert Reply:

I have a couple great options for transporting your bikes with your 2014 Forest River RV.

The Swagman Original - 4 Bike Rack # S64400 that you referenced in your question is rated for use with campers and RVs. If you want to continue using this rack on the back of your RV, you will simply need to install a trailer hitch. The Curt Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs # 13703 is a great option. The heavy-duty side brackets on this hitch allow for maximum adjustability as they can slide along the hitch body to match the width of your RV frame. This will work with frame widths of 22 to 72 inches. Once installed, this will provide a 2 inch receiver opening with a 350 pound tongue weight capacity to accommodate your Swagman Original Bike Rack. I have attached an installation video for you to check out.

If you do not want to install a trailer hitch onto your RV, another really nice option is the Swagman 4 Bike Carrier RV Mounted Bike Rack # S80600. This rack is compatible with continuously welded steel square bumpers that are between 4 and 4-1/2 inches wide. If your RV has this type of bumper, this will work great. I have attached a video review of this product so you can get a better idea as to how it works.

I do recommend adding a cable lock like the etrailer.com # e98891 to secure your bikes to the rack.

expert reply by: Chris R