Side to Side Movement of Swagman XTC-2 Trailer Hitch Mount Bike Rack While Driving

Question:

To start, I am very pleased with how easy it was to mount my new bike rack as well as load and unload my bikes on my 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo. I tested it out today and while I was driving the bikes were moving back and forth quite a bit. I am sure that the locking hitch bolt is tight, as well as the two allen bolts beneath the bike mount. I guess I was expecting the bikes to be really stiff but their is a little bit of give to the left and right while driving. Is this considered normal while driving on paved roads?

asked by: Justin G

Expert Reply:

What you are experiencing is normal. The shank of the bike rack is a little smaller than the receiver opening so it will fit inside. While the hitch bolt will take up some of the play, even a little bit of movement at the hitch will equal out to more movement the further from the receiver an object is, especially when under load.

What you can do is add an additional anti-rattle device, # MPG908 for 2 inch receivers or # RM-061-125 for 1-1/4 inch receivers, to take up even more of the play in the receiver and that may get you to a more desirable bike carrying experience.

expert reply by: Michael H