How do I Tie-Down 2 E-Bikes on a Cargo Carrier on the Rear of My Trailer?

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Question:

How to tie down two e bikes on cargo rack behind the trailer.

asked by: Pam

Expert Reply:

Without knowing what cargo carrier you have on your trailer or the length of your carrier's platform, I am not sure about your setup.

However, if you have a solid or grated planform like the 23x59 Stromberg Carlson Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches # CC-100, the best bet is to use the Bike Rack Adapter for Stromberg Carlson Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier # CC-125. Depending on the grate whole opening, you may need to modify the hardware a bit to accommodate your grate hole dimensions. If you have a solid surface, this requires drilling to use the # CC-125. It is important to note that the # CC-125 is compatible with bike tires up to 2-1/4" wide.

As far as securing the bikes, I recommend using S-hook ratcheting tie downs like the # 317-309590. It is important to realize that your cargo carrier needs to have attachment points for the S-hooks on your carrier.

With all this being said, if you have 2 e-bikes that you are looking to transport behind your trailer, I absolutely recommend using a hitch-mounted bike rack. The rack provides you with more support and security than a cargo-carrier mounted solution. For the rack, I recommend the Swagman E-Spec - 2" # S94FR. Not only does is this rack engineered for brute strength to withstand the extra torque and force experienced on the rear of a trailer, it also comes with an impressive 70-pound per-bike weight capacity. As far as compatibility, it works with bikes with wheelbases up to 48 inches long and wheel diameters of 20" - 29" around. With the E-Spec, it comes loaded with locks so you do not need to worry about the potential for theft of your bikes or the rack.

If you happen to have fat bike tires between 3-5 inches wide, you need the fat tire adapter cradles # S64679 for each bike. Also, if you have women's bikes, step-thru bikes, or children's bikes, these styles require a bike frame adapter bar # 64005 for each bike. This adapter provides your bikes with a straight, horizontal plane that is required to attach the bikes to the ratcheting hooks of the E-Spec.

I went ahead and attached some great videos for you to check out.