Bike Rack Options While Using A Tow Dolly

Updated 06/02/2020 | Published 07/13/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Stromberg Carlson 2 Bike Carrier for RVs - Ladder Mount - Aluminum

(116)

$95.13

Swagman Traveler XC2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches or RV Bumpers - Frame Mount

(313)

$250.00

Question:

Hi there I have a Kar Kaddy SS Tow Dolly towing a Kia Soul. To keep the tow dolly level, I have a 2inch receiver with a 10inch adjustable hitch. What model of dual hitch would you recommend that would support the hitch and a Pro Series bike carrier? Most posts suggest that certain dual hitch models are not recommended for use with a tow dolly. Thanks for any info you can give me.

asked by: Brian J

Expert Reply:

I do have an option that will allow you to use a bike rack on the rear of the vehicle while towing a tow dolly, however, there currently are not any dual hitch adapters that will allow you to use a 10" drop ball mount and remain within your weight capacity. Therefore, the only way to use a hitch bike rack on the rear of an RV while also towing a car with a tow dolly, would involve a bike rack that slides over the ball mount.

The only bike rack that will slide over the ball mount and is compatible for use behind an RV is the Swagman Traveler XCS - Platform-Style 2 Bike Rack for 2" Ball Mount part # S64664. Nonetheless, this is still a great carrier as it is very easy to use and load/unload.

I do however have a a few other possible solutions that will be compatible for both use with a tow dolly and rated for RV applications. For this, you can install a bumper mounted bike rack on the rear bumper of your RV such as the Swagman Platform-Style 2 Bike Rack part # S64663 as long as your RV has a continuously welded, 4 x 4-1/2" bumper. Another option is to stow the bikes on a ladder rack, if your RV has a rear facing ladder, such as the Stromberg Carlson 2 Bike Carrier for RVs part # LA-102.

I have attached a review video on each of these bike racks for you.

expert reply by: Conner L

Terry

5/29/2020

I have a motor home .. I have a tow dolly.. I have 2 ebikes weighing 65 pounds each.. is there a rack that will accommodate my needs

Chris R.

6/2/2020

A dual hitch adapter like the Roadmaster # RM-077-4 will work well for this application. We've reached out to Roadmaster in the past to verify it could be used with a tow dolly. The top receiver can then be used for your bike rack. You just need to make sure that the combined tongue weight of the loaded rack and dolly don't exceed 400 pounds.