Recommended 4 Bike Rack to Use With RV That is Towing a 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Question:

We have a Thor ACE 29.2 RV. We tow a 2017 Wrangler UL with a Ready Brake system. We wanted to use a bike rack that could be mounted between the RV and the Jeep. I was hesitant to add one of the dual hitch extender because of the added length. My two options for 4 bikes seem to be either the Blue Ox system or mounting a hitch onto the bumper. The ACE does not have a square bumper, so can you mount a hitch to it, if we are just using it for a bike rack? I have included a photo of the bumper.

asked by: NIck C

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you, but the RV Bumper Hitch Receivers, like part # S64025, are only compatible with the square bumpers like the one in the attached picture. The problem with a dual hitch extender (or any hitch extender), like part # MPG544, is that it reduces the weight capacity of your trailer hitch receiver by 50 percent, so you might not be able to continue to tow your 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

The Saris MHS Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount # SAR95MR, is an excellent choice to use in this case. The Semi 4.0 can be used in your Jeep's 2 inch trailer hitch receiver and will give you the ability to safely carry all 4 of your bikes. The 4.0 has a weight capacity of 230 lbs , 80 pounds each for the two bikes closest to your jeep and 35 pounds each for the other two. This rack can be folded up when the bikes are unloaded to provide extra space at the rear of your Wrangler Unlimited. This bike rack is rated for use on Flat-towed vehicles so it will work well for this application.

From the center of the hitch pin hole to the nearest part of the rack measures 7 inches, so this should work as long as you do not have a spare tire on the back of your Jeep. This rack comes with locks for the rack and the bikes and has a limited lifetime warranty.

expert reply by: Jon G