Ladder Mounted and Trailer Hitch Mounted Bike Rack Recommendations for a Jayco RV

Question:

I am looking for a bike rack for my Jayco rv. The ladder is 12inch wide and the rungs are 2inch wide. Do all these types of racks have the bikes hung vertical? Can it be done without removing the front tire? If I go for a hitch rack instead, are all hitches the same? The one on my car measures slightly smaller than the one on my rv.

asked by: Denise

Expert Reply:

Because the ladder on most RVs and trailers is off to one side, the bike racks have to hold the bikes vertically so they will not hang out beyond the edge of the trailer. Removing the front wheel is not required. You can use a strap or twine to prevent the handle bars and front wheel from turning.

The rack that you referenced, # SP501BR, will fit your ladder because it clamps onto the vertical supports, so the width doesn't play a factor. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you to view.

A trailer hitch mount bike rack is easier to load and unload the bikes. There are only certain racks that can be used at the back of a trailer or RV. I have included a link to them for you.

Your RV probably has a 2 inch wide receiver and the vehicle sounds like it has a 1-1/14 inch receiver. A compatible bike rack for both sizes that can be used at the back of an RV or trailer is # S64670. The benefit is that you can use this rack with the vehicle and the RV, it is easier to load the bikes than a ladder mount, and the platform style is compatible with many types of bikes.

Not all hitches are the same. I have included a link that covers hitch sizes and Classes for you. I have also included some links on the platform bike rack.

expert reply by: Michael H