RV Bike Rack Recommendation for a Class B RV

Updated 07/14/2020 | Published 02/10/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(827)

$36.20

Question:

I have a Class B van type RV that has two swing out back doors. I have been looking at the Swagman S63400. Will this fold down far enough to open both the doors? If not, do you have a suggestion for something that will work. The RV does not nave a ladder.

asked by: Karen B

Expert Reply:

I will be happy to help. The first piece of information that will help you choose a bike rack is that not all bike racks can be used on RVs, even if it is a Class B RV. On RVs and trailers, there is excess bouncing and movement at the trailer hitch. Most hitch mount bike racks cannot handle the excess bouncing and would likely fail during your trip causing expensive damages.

We do have several bike racks that are rated for use on a RV. I have attached a link to these bike racks for you to check out. The # S63400 that you referenced is confirmed to work at the back of RVs like what you have so it would be a great choice. It does tilt to give rear cargo door access, but I would be very surprised if it would tilt enough to allow both of your doors to open.

Check out the review video I attached for this bike rack as well.

If you plan on carrying any womens or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Swagman Easy-Out Women's and Alternative Frame Bike Adapter # 64005 to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Melissa K.

7/10/2020

My Class B RV is only 19.5 feet long. (1997 Dodge Leasure Travel Van, Freedom). I'm wondering if shorter van RV's like mine have the same issue with excess bouncing and movement at the hitch. I'm thinking that problem may be limited to the 24' Class B's. Any thoughts on that? I already have the Kuat Transfer 2.

Chris R.

7/14/2020

The ride wouldn't be quite as rough as with a much larger Class A motorhome, but there's still going to be more bounce/movement at the rear of your Class B Leisure Van when compared to a standard passenger vehicle. Even with a smaller RV like this I still recommend getting a rack that's motorhome approved.