How to Carry Bikes While Towing Rockwood Freedom Tent Trailer w/ Spare Tire on Rear

Question:

I have a Rockwood Freedom tent trailer, which has a spare tire mounted on the back wall, obstructing the center of the bumper which prevents me from installing a hitch receiver to use with my existing bike rack. Will this product fit? My concerns are that the tire might be too small in diameter and/or the bolt pattern may not be compatible with this product. Thanks

asked by: Jon

Expert Reply:

The Thule Spare Me # TH963PRO bike rack isn't meant to be used on the rear of a towed camper or trailer, where it would be subject to greater jarring and bouncing forces than it was designed to withstand. These extra forces could cause the loss of the rack and bikes during transport, which would be bad.

I do have some alternative suggestions for you, though. If you have any room on the trailer tongue, the Stromberg Carlson Bike Bunk, part # CC-275 would work well for you. If your bike rack and the bikes on it weigh less than the bunk's 100 lb capacity, this would be an excellent option for you.

If using a ball mount with a 2-1/4 drop would allow your trailer to tow level, using a multipurpose ball mount like the Curt # D210 would work well for you. The receiver portion has a 350 lb tongue weight capacity, while the whole unit has a 750 lb capacity. Keep in mind, you'll be limited by the capacities of the tow vehicle, if they're lower.

expert reply by: Mike L