How to Use Erickson EM07605 Load Extender and Bike Rack Simultaneously

Question:

Hi, I have a Darby extend a bed I intend to use on my 2018 Audi Q7 to help support the lock rack carrier on the roof fo my 14 foot SUP. I am also looking to add a two bike ~ bike rack to the same 2 inch hitch. I see the hitch adapters but I am unsure if I will have the clearance to do both and is this even doable?

asked by: John A

Expert Reply:

The only way you'd be able to utilize both the bike rack and the Erickson # EM07605 Load Extender would be to use a dual hitch receiver like # MPG544.

When installed in a dual hitch receiver, the Erickson Load extender shank is 11 inches long, so you'd need to find a bike rack with a shank length longer than that in order for it to clear the upright of the Load Extender.

We do offer one 3 bike rack with a shank long enough that you'd be able to install it in the dual hitch receiver. I'd recommend using the Swagman Original, part # S64152-2. If your bike frame tubing is 2 inches in diameter or less, and both bikes have similar frame tubing diameter, this would be a viable solution.

Using the dual hitch receiver will lower the tongue weight capacity of the hitch by half, so you'll want to be sure that the 20 or so lb weight of the load extender, the 25 lb weight of the bike rack I recommended, the weight of the bikes and 1/3 of the weight of the SUP won't exceed half the hitch tongue weight capacity. The hitch should have an ID tag on it listing it's tongue weight capacity.