How To Carry 4 Bikes on a 2017 Ram 3500 While Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

Hi, I have a 2017 RAM 3500 quad cab naked roof 6’4’ bed. I tow a fifth wheel. I would like to carry 4 bikes, two mountain and two road, just under 100 pounds. I like the JetStream 70” and the HighRoads but am open to suggestions on brand and everything. I also have a 1.25” hitch on the back of fifth wheel but was thinking of adding a hitch cargo carrier to haul a Yamaha Generator 3000iseb which weighs about 175 with fuel. Can you provide me with suggestions for the bikes and cargo carrier? Also, I do have a 2inch hitch in from of truck and a 1.25inch to 2inch adapter for the back of the fifth wheel. Thank you.

asked by: David H

Expert Reply:

If I were you, I would place the bikes on a bike rack in front of the vehicle. The reason being that taking four bikes on and off the roof each time is going to be a cumbersome task to say the least. There is also a risk that you could damage the vehicle with the bikes. That said, I will provide the parts needed for either option below. The bike rack on the front of the vehicle will add a bit of length to your already extended setup but I am sure you will find the ease of use worth this addition. Most bike racks can also be folded up while not in use.

For a bike rack to place on the front of the vehicle, I recommend the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 4 Bike Platform part # HR1400Z because it can accommodate pretty much any bike on the market due to the selection of available adapters. It also has a lifetime warranty and as stated can be folded up while not in use.

For a roof rack and roof mounted bike rack, I recommend the Yakima JetStream Crossbar System part # Y00427, part # Y28TR, and part # Y06135 with the Yakima HighRoad Roof Bike Rack part # Y02114. Yakima offers quality well made products, most of which are backed by a lifetime warranty.