Hitch and Recumbent Bike Rack Recommendation for 2003 Chrysler Town and Country

Question:

I have a 2003 Chrysler Town and Country mini-van, and two recumbent bikes I want to haul on the van. The recumbents are Sun EZ-1 SX, and Sun EZ-2 SX. Both bikes are no longer made, and I am having trouble determining the wheel base size on these bikes. I need advice on which trailer hitch to buy, and which bike rack to buy. Im looking at your Swagman XC-Extended Platform Style 2 Recumbent rack, and I think it would be a good choice, but I cant tell, from your website, if it is a 1 1/4inch hitch or a 2inch hitch? Also, I plugged in my car make and model, and found Draw-Tite Class II Frame Receiver Hitch,. Again, is this a 1 1/4inch or is it a 2inch hitch? How do I determine the wheel base measurement on my bikes? Do I want 1 1/4inch or 2? Is the Swagman XC a good choice? Im seeing some rec on the Hollywood Rack-what is this? Your product or not?

asked by: Kel M

Expert Reply:

So first let's start with a trailer hitch for your 2003 Chrysler Town and Country. For that you'd want a Class III hitch with a 2 inch opening so that you'd have the capacity for the heavier duty recumbent bike racks. So the Draw Tite # 75119 would be the best option.

To determine the wheelbase, measure the distance between the axles. You will also need to determine the weight of each bike. Then you can decide if one of our bike racks that are designed for recumbent bikes will work for you. We have two from which to choose.

First, the Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 2 Recumbents Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # SA4412B-R has a maximum wheelbase of 57" and will hold bikes up to 60 pounds.

Then we have the Swagman XC-Extended Bike Rack for 2 Recumbent Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # S64650-EXT. This rack has a maximum wheelbase of 69" but will only hold bikes up to 35 pounds.

If neither of these work for your specifications, I recommend a small utility trailer like the Detail K2 # K2MMT4X6 which is 72 inches long or the # K2MMT5X7 which is 88 inches long. You would easily be able to fit both of your bikes. You would also need some tie-downs like the Erickson Ratchet Tie-Down Straps w/ Web Clamps and S-Hooks - 1" x 10' - 500 lbs - Qty 4 # EM31352 to secure your bikes to the trailer.