Why Cant Some Bike Racks be Used on the Back of an RV or Trailer
Question:
I own this rack and have used it very successfully behind our SUV. We own a camping trailer and would like to use it on our camping trips, but noticed that it is not recommended for that. Just wondering why. Is it a weight or height problem? Or something else. Thanks
asked by: Clayton D
Expert Reply:
Only certain bike racks are rated for use at the back of an RV or trailer but the Hollywood Racks # HR1400Z bike rack is not one of them. Generally, any rack that can fold or tilt, with few exceptions, won't be rated for this applications. The reason is that there is significantly more movement at the back of an RV or trailer due to the distance from the rear axle to the end of the vehicle/trailer and/or because the suspension is not as effective in many cases as a passenger vehicle.
Folding/titling racks (as well as racks not built as robust) have a point of potential failure where they pivot or are just not beefy enough to withstand the rigors of riding at the back of an RV/trailer. Therefore many are not even tested for this application and thus are not rated for it. If the rack was to sustain damage the warranty would be voided.
I have included a link below to the bike racks that are rated for use at the back of an RV or trailer. For platform racks the Swagman Dispatch # S44FR is a great option. It is a platform style rack for 2 bikes and holds the bikes at the wheels and frame. And another great option is the Lets Go Aero V-Lectric FAT PRO # LGA77FR. This is unique style rack that holds the bikes at the wheels only and will even work with bikes with fenders.
Products Referenced in This Question
Swagman Dispatch Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Frame Mount
- Hitch Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Swagman
more information >
Swagman E-Spec Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Electric Bikes
- Heavy Bikes
- Swagman
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 4 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Heavy Bikes
- Hollywood Racks
more information >
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Adam P.
2/21/2020
This explanation is very helpful. What is confusing when I search the site for RV bike racks and then filter for travel trailer, there are no platform style listed. However, there are quite a few platform style racks listed that are RV approved. From your explanation above Im not seeing the difference between an RV and trailer. Also, the search function seems to be misleading for Lets Go Aero BikeWing T4, 2+2 4-Bike Rack - 2 Hitches - Folding - Horizontal Wheel Mount as it filters for trailers but in the product details it says its not.I am interested in a 4 bike rack for my travel trailer that is not permanent bumper mounted but can accommodate my mountain bike. I have a hanging rack now and it doesnt work with the frame, so platform seems more appropriate.