Front Mount 4 Bike Rack on a 2015 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Updated 08/15/2017 | Published 08/13/2017
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I am shopping for a bike rack for the front receiver on plan to purchase fron you for my 2015 GMC Sierra 2500HD. I was looking at this one: Reese Eclipse 4 Bike Rack for 2inch Hitches - Tilting Item # 63124inch Is this suitable to mount in the front or should I be looking at another product. Thanks!
asked by: Matthew
Expert Reply:
A Swagman # S64400 Original 4-bike rack is a match for a front-mounted hitch bike rack, however you will want to pay special attention to how much play is happening on your rack when it is front mounted, as the direction of the force and the shape of the front of the vehicle are different from the rear. This is a heavy duty, durable bike rack that includes built in anti-rattle technology. Stabilization straps are available as part # 18050.
Additionally, the plate-style mount that it has is stronger and tightens down to keep all of the bikes in their cradles against the heavier forces from the front of the vehicle.
I've included a video of the Swagman Original in action so you can compare for yourself. I will note that the Swagman Original video only has one bike in the carrier when in use, and is employing a stability strap, so its play is reduced more than it would be with more bikes and without the strap.
I additionally recommend adding a Swagman Frame Adapter Bar, part # 64005 for a front-mounted carrier. This allows for women's, children's and aggressive framed (BMX or Mountain) bikes to ride level and reduce the risk of bounces or shocks damaging the bikes.
I'd also recommend adding a cable and hitch lock for 2 inch hitches, part # S64030. This will increase the security of the bikes and the racks by securing them together.
When using a front hitch mounted bike carrier, be aware of the additional distance added to the front of the vehicle by the rack, as well as any width added from the bikes. This may also obstruct your view while driving, the airflow to the vehicle's motor and the visibility provided by your headlights. Finally, your ground clearance shouldn't be an issue given the vehicle and rack, but still, be aware of the amount of ground clearance you have when employing the rack.
For a hitch, I recommend Curt's Front Mount Hitch, part # C31071 as a viable option for your vehicle. I've included a video of its installation process.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Gas Shock - 75 lb Force - 17" Extended, 9.66" Compressed - Black Nitride
- Shop: Gas Shock - 120 lb Force - 20" Extended, 11.41" Compressed - Black Nitride
- Shop: Gas Shock - 150 lb Force - 20" Extended, 11.41" Compressed - Black Nitride
- Shop: Gas Shock - 100 lb Force - 20" Extended, 11.41" Compressed - Black Nitride
- Shop: Everchill RV Refrigerator w Freezer Drawers - French Doors - 16 cu ft - 115V - Black Stainless Steel
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Q&A: Best Suspension Upgrade for 33" Tandem Axles: Road Armor vs Dexter EZ Flex for Ember 22ETS
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Q&A: What Is An OEM Prep Package And How Do I Know If I Have It
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Power Mountain Tallboy Off-Road Bottle Jack - 8-1/2" to 37-3/4" Lift - 6 Tons
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch Manufacturer Breakdown
- Q&A: Installation Time for Blue Ox BX1128 Flat Tow Base Plate Kit for 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: How to Replace a Lance 6-Pin Plug w/ a Standard 7-Way Connector
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Q&A: Does Truck with 6-1/2 ft bed Have to Use Slider Hitch for Turning Clearance with Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Search Results: trailer hitch ball mount
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Shop: Gooseneck Hitch
- Video: In-Depth Look at the B&W 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Pin Box
on RV and Camper Bike Racks
