How to Carry Electric Bike and Cruiser Bike on Trailer or RV

Question:

I am looking at my options for traveling with bikes. The electric bike is a heavy bike with wide tires, the cruiser is a standard inexpensive schwinn cruiser. Would the Stromberg Carlson 2 Bike Carrier for RVs - Ladder Mount - Aluminum be strong enough or large enough for these two bikes?

asked by: Ildiko C

Expert Reply:

We do have a great selection of RV/trailer approved bike racks available, however the Stromberg Carlson 2 Bike Carrier # LA-102 that you referenced isn't going to be your best option. This particular rack features a weight capacity of just 25 pounds per bike, which likely falls under the weight for both your electric and standard cruiser bike.

For your two bikes, I instead recommend going with a hitch-mounted rack that will provide stronger support for your investments. If you are putting the bikes on a towable camper/trailer, I recommend taking a look at the Swagman Dispatch 2 Bike Rack # S44FR. This platform-style rack will fit 2 inch hitch receivers and can handle 2 bikes that are up to 45 pounds each. It works with a maximum tire width of 3 inches but the Fat Bike Adapter Kit # S64694 can be added for tires up to 5 inches wide. A bike and hitch lock are included. This is the highest rated rack we have available that is rated for use on a towable trailer.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this rack that you can also check out.

If you don't have a trailer hitch installed on your camper, I recommend the Curt Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch # 13703. This hitch is designed specifically for trailers and RVs and will fit frames that are 22 to 72 inches wide. Just note that Curt does require that a stabilizing strap # 18050 be used with any non-trailer load like a bike rack.

If you are actually putting the bikes on an RV/motorhome, then we do have some higher-rated options that will work. The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HLY84FR will carry 2 bikes of up to 80 pounds each and also has a maximum tire width of 5 inches.