Would Bikes and Swagman RV Bumper Bike Rack Obstruct Vision of Tail Lights on RV

Updated 04/14/2015 | Published 04/11/2015

Products Featured in This Question

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

(320)

$249.95

etrailer License Plate and LED Tail Light Mounting Kit for Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier

(28)

$88.84

Question:

Your video shows the trailer spare tire relocated to accommodate the bike rack by moving it partially in front of the Trailer tail light. Isnt that illegal? Will the bikes fit without the tire obstructing the tail light? Thanks

asked by: David P

Expert Reply:

It would be illegal if the tail lights of your RV were completely obstructed. However, you should check with your state Department of Motor Vehicles for details. There is a good chance your tail lights would shine through the spokes of the wheel allowing them to be visible, and therefore safe and legal.

I recommend testing the tail lights with the bike rack in place to see if the tail lights are visible while the bike is in the simulated mounting location. If they are obstructed significantly you probably should not use this rack. It will be up to you to what degree of visibility you are comfortable with.

If you are not comfortable with the amount of tail light visibility you have, you could purchase a light kit like the etrailer License Plate and LED Tail Light Mounting Kit for Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier
Item # e98943-44LED. This kit gives you an additional set of tail lights that you can mount on the back of the bike rack to ensure you have proper tail light visibility.

For install details and some product demonstration videos, click the provided links.

expert reply by: Chris O