Option to Carry 3 Bikes on a 5th Wheel Trailer When There is No Room in the Trailer or Truck Bed

Question:

Do you have any good ways to mount bicycles to their truck while pulling a fifth wheel? I added a “hitch” to the rear bumper of my rig but the weight of the bikes only 3 of them twisted the bumper enough to pop out the end caps causing me to completely lose one of them. I have a tool box in the bed at the front and not much room left at the rear of the bed so putting them in there isn’t an option either unfortunately. I’m thinking of some kind of rack on the roof of the truck for the bikes pretty expensive option and not great for a bad back or a front mount hitch and just putting the bikes there but I’m worried about blocking the headlights or even being an issue with too high over the hood causing potential visibility issues. Do you have any better ideas? Putting them inside the camper is out of the question and I can’t talk my kids into getting rid of them LOL.

asked by: Charlie H

Expert Reply:

The best option will be to use an adjustable trailer hitch for RV's which will mount to your frame instead of the bumper. This is going to be a much stronger and sturdier option.

If your frame is between 18" to 51" Wide then you can use the Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs # C13702. If your frame is between 22" to 72" Wide then you can use the Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs # 13703.

This would allow you to use the bike rack you already have, as long as it is 5th wheel rated. If it is not 5th wheel rated, you can use the Swagman Original # S64152-2 which will carry 3 bikes and is rated for use with a 5th wheel.

expert reply by: Scott S