How to Carry a E-Bike Bike Rack and Tow a Travel Trailer

Question:

Hi, I am looking for a bike rack/carrying solution for two e-bikes. I currently carry bikes not e-bikes due to weight on the rear of my travel trailer that has a 2inch receiver. That receiver is rated for 150lbs and with two e-bikes and the weight of the rack 1-Up I am right at 150lbs. Because it is behind the trailer I do not like the movement while traveling, plus having the added weight that far back is of some concern. My tow vehicle is a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and the trailer is an Escape 21C which is about 4Klbs dry. Do you have a recommendation for a tongue mounted solution that could handle up to 150lbs? I think placing the rack + bikes on the tongue would allow me to better deal with weight distribution/tongue weight. Since my vehicle is new I am not sure if I would need an extension to deal with gate and turning clearance. I am sort of doubtful that finding something that will allow the rear gate to raise/lower with rack and bikes installed will be possible, but that would be a plus. Thank you!

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

Thanks for the pictures, that's a very cute dog! I have a solution for you but looking at the space, and motorized jack, on your Escape 21C travel trailer's tongue you are not going to be able to mount a e-bike capable rack. The Swagman Straddler Bike Rack Carrier item # S80503 you were looking at may fit with your weight distribution system brackets but it and similar options all top out at 100 lbs. You won't have enough capacity for one e-bike with the rack.

Instead, I recommend using the Replacement Shank for Gen-Y Adjustable Ball Mount item # 325-GH-304. This adjustable ball mount has four 2" receiver openings that will allow you to use both a hitch mounted bike rack and tow your trailer with your weight distribution system. This ball mount has a 10,000 lbs towing capacity and a 1,500 lbs maximum tongue weight. Which should not reduce your Jeep's current capacity. Keep in mind it will not increase it either.

I can't tell from the pictures but depending on your bike rack you may be able to use it with this set up if it is rated for the weight of e-bikes. If it is not capable, I recommend the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack item # HLY84FR. This bike rack has a 80 lbs capacity per bike and fits tires up to 5" wide. It uses a center clamp to attach to the frame so you don't have to worry about damaging any fenders.

I also recommend locking the Gen-Y to your Jeep with the etrailer Stainless Steel Hitch Lock item # e98882.

This will not address your desire to open the rear hatch but it will improve your turning clearance. I don't have an option that will help with opening up the rear of your Jeep while everything is set up.