Will Trailer Hitch and Loaded Bike Rack on Trailer Affect Gross Trailer Weight and Tongue Weight

Updated 05/19/2016 | Published 05/15/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Curt RV Bumper 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver

(821)

$117.40

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(666)

$16.37

Question:

I have a 2012 Subaru Outback 2.5i with a dealer installed class 1 hitch. Tongue weight max is 200 lbs and GVWR is 2700. I am towing a 2007 Santa Fe Cp popup camper with a tongue weight of 200 lbs and GVWR of 3000. Planning on loading it a bit light to stay below the 2700 GVWR. Id like to add my hitch mounted bike carrier to the rear of the popup, but am concerned of how the additional weight on the rear of the camper would impact my tongue and GVWR overall. Can you shed some light? Is the E-100 my best and only option? Id like something secure.

asked by: Rob S

Expert Reply:

The impact of a loaded bike rack on the back of the trailer will be negligible in terms of the gross trailer weight though it will count towards it. If anything it will lower the tongue weight of the trailer since more weight is at the back of the trailer.

The Curt RV bumper hitch # E-100 is a fine choice provided the trailer has a 4 inch square steel bumper. Keep in mind that there are only certain bike racks that are rated for use at the back of a trailer. I have included a link to them for you.

Curt also says you have to use stabilization strap # 18050 when using this hitch for any non-trailer load (such as a bike rack or cargo carrier) per their warranty requirements. I have linked a video showing how it works.

expert reply by: Michael H