Carrying Bikes Horizontally Behind a Ford Okanagan Camper Van

Updated 08/29/2017 | Published 08/28/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Surco 2 Bike Carrier for Vans and RVs - Ladder Mount

(155)

$135.36

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

(320)

$234.55

Question:

Looking at the Surco RV Ladder mount bike carrier for my Ford Okanagan CamperVan... Rather than mount the bike vertical on the rack... can the bike be mounted horizontally like on a regular hitch mounted rack... Thanks

asked by: Lynne

Expert Reply:

This rack is designed to maximize space behind an RV and minimize damage from road debris and wind by placing the bikes fully behind the RV while its in motion. I don't recommend mounting the bikes horizontally on this rack as the bikes could stick out past the side of the RV into the next lane of traffic and become a hazard for other drivers.

If you're looking to mount your bikes horizontally, I recommend instead a hitch or bumper mounted rack. Swagman offers two Platform style bike racks, the Swagmen E-Spec, part # S94FR or the Bumper mounted version, part # S64663 . These will allow you to mount your bikes behind the RV horizontally and allow you to adjust for any other cargo or gear riding behind your RV.

expert reply by: Jacob W