Best Front-Mounted Bike Rack for an Electric and Regular bike on a 1993 Roadtrek?

Question:

I need a carrier rack for two bikes, one is my new Trek Lift, electric step though. Because its heavy for me at 48lbs, Im looking for a tilt down that is easy to use. The tricky part is finding one that can be front mounted via tow hitch to a 1993 Roadtrek. It needs to be able to allow the front license plate to be seen, the headlights to shine through AND not obscure our vision out the front window. Too tall an order? What do you recommend? Will the #KU74FR work? Or the Thule T2 Pro? See what you can come up with. My husband says you folks are great to work with and thats about as good a recommendation I could hope for. In the photo, Im there for scale at 52.

asked by: Cynthia S

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you, but the Kuat Transfer V2, part # KU74FR is not rated to carry an electric bicycle at 48lbs.

The rack I recommend is the Swagman E-Spec, part # S94FR. This rack has a minimalist design and the ratcheting hooks lock securely in place, giving it a secure hold on your bikes. It sits a little above the hitch which will keep your vertical lift distance at a minimum. Additionally, the minimalist design will keep the headlights and license plate as unobstructed as possible. This rack also folds up when not in use.

Because of this, I also recommend looking at the Thule Easy Fold XT, part # TH903202. This is a more expensive rack, but includes a telescoping ramp for easy loading and no lifting. It is also a wider base and would ride in line with the bumper. It may block the license plate more than you would like.

Being that the plan is to front-mount the bike rack, be aware that there will be additional distance added to the front of your vehicle, making some curbs and driveways difficult to enter.

expert reply by: Jacob W