Can a Towing Bike Carrier be Used with a Weight Distribution System

Published 12/02/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Clamp-On Bike Rack for 3 Bikes - 2" Ball Mounts

(78)

$143.64

Stromberg Carlson Bike Bunk Trailer-Mounted Bike Rack Carrier for A-Frame Trailers - 2"-100 lbs

(151)

$144.95

Swagman Trailhead RV Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches

(560)

$243.50

Question:

I have two folding bikes that could be mounted on a rack either folded or unfolded. I am interested in a bike rack that mounts on the hitch or A-frame of the trailer, a 25-ft Rockwood MiniLite. The tow vehicle is a 2004 4Runner. The hitch is a load-leveling hitch with two load leveler bars and a sway bar. The propane tanks are mounted on the A-frame of the trailer. Is the V-rack appropriate? Will it work with the load-levelers, the sway bar and the propane tanks? If not, is there a better solution? My wife is leery of roof mounts and I am very leery of mounting anything on the trailer bumper. A hitch-mounted rack would allow us to carry the bikes either while towing or while sight-seeing unhooked. There is no ladder on the trailer and it is not framed to add one. Currently, we must carry the bikes inside the car which takes up virtually all the cargo room.

asked by: John P

Helpful Expert Reply:

Using a towing bike carrier such as # C18013 adds to the tongue weight of the trailer which is a critical part of determining the proper weight distribution system and setting up that system. Because of that I do not recommend using this type of carrier when using weight distribution.

What you can use is the Bike Bunk, # CC-275, though it may require moving some things on the A-Frame to attach it. Then you could use a bike carrier that is approved for use on a trailer such as the Swagman Trailhead # S63381. I have included links to videos on the Bike Bunk and Trailhead for you.

expert reply by: Michael H