Weight Capacity and Mounting Configuration of Surco Ladder Mount 2 Bike Rack Part # SP501BR

Question:

Our 5th wheel is in storage in TN. Im pretty sure the ladder has eclipse style rungs, but Im not positive, they could be round, The ladder is on drivers side, I assume this is not an issue. Also, our bikes each weigh 40 pounds. I didnt see a weight limit on this brand, whereas I saw a 70 pound total weight limit on another brand of ladder rack. I am placing my order tonight for this product. Also, I have to compliment etrailer staff and experts on the great performance of the Reese Airborne Elite 5th wheel pinbox I purchased about 2 years ago. I installed it on our 2008 Jayco 37foot 5th wheel when we purchased our new 2011 Silverado 2500 HD diesel shortbed truck. It made a world of difference in tracking, eliminated 99 of the worry of cab and bed damage in tight turns, and provides a smoother ride. We traveled to Alaska in 2011 and I cant tell you the number of times I told my wife that investing in the Reese pinbox was the best investment I have made in RV equipment.

asked by: Dennis R

Expert Reply:

The Surco RV Ladder Mounted Bike Rack you referenced attaches to the uprights of the ladder, not the rungs. As long as your uprights have a round profile, the ladder bike rack will fit regardless of the profile of the rungs. I have edited a photo for you that shows this. As long as the ladder is not right at the edge of the 5th wheel, the fact that the ladder is on the drivers side should present no problem.

The rack itself has a weight capacity of 75 lbs, which might work for you if you can lighten either bike by a few pounds. Some bikes have quick release hubs that allow the wheels to be quickly and easily removed. You could hang the bikes from their rear wheels, and remove the front bike wheels and store them in the 5th wheel.

expert reply by: Mike L