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Using Dual Hitch Adapter to Transport 2 e-Bikes and Tow Trailer Behind RV  

Question:

This is a response to Chriss reply to my question. I have already purchased the RM077-4, it will be delivered today. You responded that it was not suitable to pull a trailer and recommended a different unit. I thought I would provide you further details y Thule Easyfold XT Hitch bike rack would go on the top receiver. This rack holds two Rad e bikes with a total weight of approximately 155 lbs w/o the batterys. The lower receiver would pull my Rack and Roll aluminum kayak trailer with 50 pound or less tongue weight, holding two 14foot kayaks. This would be mounted on a Coachman Leprechaun motor home with a 500 pound tongue weight capacity. With this information, will it be necessary for me to return the RM077-4 and purchase the MPG544?

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Expert Reply:

We do have similar adapters that might work for your application but the Roadmaster Dual Hitch Receiver # RM-077-4 that you referenced cannot be used to tow a trailer. This particular unit can only be used for flat towing another vehicle.

For a dual hitch adapter with the same weight capacity that can be used to tow a trailer I recommend the Malone # MPG544. This features a 4,000 pound towing capacity and a 400 pound tongue weight limit. You will need to make sure the combined tongue weight from both the loaded bike rack and trailer do not exceed this number. It's also important to note that this and any other similar adapter will reduce the tongue weight capacity on your trailer hitch by 50 percent.

For example if the hitch on your RV has a 350 pound tongue weight capacity it will be reduced to 175 pounds when using the adapter. The combined tongue weight of your setup not only has to fall below the adapter itself but also this reduced number.

If you determine you will be under the limit of your hitch this is a great solution and exactly what it's designed for.

Otherwise your best option will be to load the bikes inside the RV if possible or add a front-mount hitch to which you can install the EasyFold Rack # TH903202 instead. If you can tell me what chassis your RV is built on I will be happy to make a specific recommendation.

expert reply by:
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Chris R

Ray S.

7/11/2019

This is a response to Chriss reply to my question. I have already purchased the RM077-4, it will be delivered today. You responded that it was not suitable to pull a trailer and recommended a different unit. I thought I would provide you further details y Thule Easyfold XT Hitch bike rack would go on the top receiver. This rack holds two Rad e bikes with a total weight of approximately 155 lbs w/o the batterys. The lower receiver would pull my Rack and Roll aluminum kayak trailer with 50 pound or less tongue weight, holding two 14foot kayaks. This would be mounted on a Coachman Leprechaun motor home with a 500 pound tongue weight capacity. With this information, will it be necessary for me to return the RM077-4 and purchase the MPG544?

Chris R.

7/11/2019

Roadmaster states that their Dual Hitch Receiver Adapter # RM-077-4 should not be used for towing. A lot of this does have to do with the difference in tongue weight between a standard trailer and a towed vehicle but also the increased torque that a trailer creates during travel. I do understand that the kayak trailer isn't going to provide much tongue weight at all but I can't recommend going against the manufacturer's restrictions. This is simply how the unit was tested and rated so choosing to tow a trailer, however light, could potentially lead to damage and would also void the adapter's warranty. With this in mind your best option really is to go with the # MPG544 if your reduced tongue weight is still sufficient when using it or with a front hitch that you can use for your EasyFold # TH903202 instead.

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