Platform-Style Bike Rack Recommendation for a Motorhome Towing a Chevrolet Malibu

Question:

Looking at the Roadmaster dual receiver with 4inch and 2inch rise to replace my existing Demco 4inch and provide second receiver. Using Blue Ox Aventa tow bar to pull 2011 Malibu ~3300. Want to use the upper receiver with the Swagman tilt-away 2 bike carrier 1 1/4inch and 2inch hitch while towing the Malibu. The carrier will also fit the 1 1/4inch hitch on the Malibu and the 2inch on my Grand Cherokee. Any obvious problems? What is the horizontal distance from pin hole to nearest and farthest points on the rack? What is the rise on the neck, hitch center to main bar center?

asked by: Rick S

Expert Reply:

The Swagman Platform-Style 2 Bike Rack, # S64663, that you referenced is an excellent choice for your Malibu or Grand Cherokee. The distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest wheel loop on this bike rack is 4 inches and the overall length is 20 inches (see photo). This rack does not have a rise in the shank, but you should still have plenty of room to hook up the tow bar.

This rack will work well with the Roadmaster Dual Hitch Receiver, # RM-077-4, to carry the bike rack and tow your Malibu. The only downside is that all hitch mounted bike racks rated for use with motor homes fit 2 inch trailer hitch receivers only. They will not fit 1-1/4 inch hitch receivers.

expert reply by: John H