Can Multiple Hitch Adapters Be Used Together To Flat A Vehicle And Bike Rack

Question:

I bought a Roadmaster Dual Hitch Receiver Adapter, 2inch Or 10inch /rise 10,000 lb capacity from etrailer.com in May so I could install my Thule EZ Fold bike carrier between the motorhome and Jeep. See photos I am afraid the distance between the bike rack and the front of the Jeep is slightly too narrow if I make a sharp turn. I just purchased a Blue Ox 6inch hitch extension to increase this distance See 1st two photos. Can I safely install this Blue Ox 6inch hitch extension 10,000 lb capacity between the Roadmaster Receiver and my Blue Ox Alpha 2 tow bar? Im not sure what stresses this would add to the hitch. I am towing a 5400 lb Jeep Gladiator. Also, how much would this configuration affect my hitch tongue weight loading? The max is 1500 lb so I dont think the extra length matters, and the ebikes 120 lb total are actually mounted on the Roadmaster adapter. A much more expensive solution would be to go to a blue Ox Avail 10,000 lb tow bar which is supposedly 4inch longer than my current tow bar connected to the Roadmaster adapter. That should provide adequate separation between the Jeep and the bike rack. I do not want to put the bike rack behind the Jeep for security reasons expensive electric bikes and because it would increase my total length from 64 feet to 67 feet. Thanks for your help. John Peters Decatur, AL

asked by: John P

Expert Reply:

Multiple hitch adapters like your # RM-077-10 and # BX88265 can not be used together. You'd be adding one more breaking point into the mix there and running the risk of something happening and the vehicle being loose on the road.

The Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes # TH903202 is actually on rated for use on vehicles and would void the manufacturer warranty to use it on the rear of your motorhome or even on the back of your Jeep while being flat towed. The ratings for racks are there because the suspension of a trailer or motorhome is a lot less intricate and can put a lot of strain on the bike rack.

My recommendation is to use a bike rack that is rated for flat towing and mount it to your Jeep's hitch. If you lose the dual receiver adapter # RM-077-10 that should give you a bit more space so you can try to cut down the total length of the motorhome and vehicle.

The Hollywood Racks RV Rider Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes # HLY64FR would be a good option, as it is rated for both motorhome and flat towing and has a per bike weight capacity of 80lbs. From the hitch pin hole to the furthest part of the bike rack when folded down for use is 32" so you can take that and measure out the 32 inches to get an idea of how long your total length would be.