Can a Swagman XTC-2 # 64670 Bike Rack be used on a 2011 Chevy Equinox that is being Flat Towed  

Question:

Expert Reply:

You are correct that the Swagman XTC-2 # 64670 is not recommended for use behind motorhomes, RVs, or 5th wheel trailers. However according to my contacts at Swagman, using this bike rack on your Chevy Equinox while it is being flat towed behind your motorhome is acceptable.

My contact explained that the key reason that Swagman does approve the use of this bike rack behind your Equinox, even though it is being flat towed, is that the suspension that is supporting the bike rack is the vehicle suspension not the motorhome suspension.

The forces that will be exerted on the bike rack that is mounted in the hitch of your Equinox are not the same as the forces exerted on the bike rack if it is used on the hitch of a motorhome, RV, or 5th wheel trailer. The farther a hitch mounted accessory is from the rear axle of the vehicle carrying it, the more leverage, and torque is going to be exerted on the accesory. For most RV, motorhomes and 5th wheel trailers, the distance from the rear axle to the hitch is substantial, and the forces that are exerted on the hitch mounted accessory are magnified due to the extended length from the rear axle and the suspension. The accessory will also bounce, sway, and be less stable the further from the axle it is.

I have included a link to the part mentioned above and a video showing this product being used on an Equinox that is a hear older than yours.

expert reply by: Rachael H

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