Are Trailer Bumpers Rated for Weight of Bumper Mount Bike Rack

Question:

I was told by coachman salesman that bumpers are not designed to hold the weight of bikes. True???

asked by: Rod

Expert Reply:

Before mounting a bike rack like the Swagman RV Bumper 2 Bike Rack # S80605 it is always a good idea to check with the trailer manufacturer to make sure that the factory bumper can support the weight of a loaded rack. Bike racks like this are designed to be mounted to continuous welded steel square bumpers that shouldn't have a problem supporting this kind of weight but it is still up to the trailer manufacturer.

There is no universal guideline regarding a trailer bumper's ability to hold the weight of a bike carrier and it is really just dependent on the particular trailer, the bumper's strength, and whether or not the manufacturer approves of this type of application.

If you have a Coachmen trailer and your local dealer is telling you not to use a bike rack on it then I certainly recommend following his/her advice.

If this is the case with your trailer then your best option for transporting your bikes will be with a frame-mount hitch like the Curt Adjustable Hitch # 13703 along with a trailer/RV approved rack like the excellent Swagman Trailhead 4-Bike Rack # S63381.

The Curt hitch will mount to any box frame, C-channel frame, or I-beam frame that is between 22 inches and 72 inches wide. The included hardware can be used to bolt the hitch to the trailer or it can be welded on for a no-drill application. I have attached an installation video that you can use for reference.