Recommended Hitch Receiver and Bike Rack for Use Behind Trailer  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

Starting with the hitch receiver for your trailer, if you indeed have a 4 x 4 inch bumper, the Ultra-Fab # UF35-946401 that you referenced is what I recommend. This is designed to attach to 4 inch x 4 inch square bumpers with the included hardware and U-bolts. If you are just looking to use the 2 inch receiver for hitch-mounted accessories like bike racks, this is a great option and it will work well.

Moving on to the bike rack, the Kuat Beta was a really nice 2-bike hanging-style rack, however it was not rated for use behind a trailer or RV and it is no longer available.

Because of the extra movement and rattle that a bike rack has to withstand when mounted to a trailer as opposed to a passenger vehicle, only certain bike racks are safe to use. I instead recommend looking at the Swagman Trailhead 4-Bike Rack # S63381. This will be compatible with the above mentioned hitch receiver and is rated for use on a trailer. It features a dual-arm design and anti-sway cradles to secure your bikes at 3 different points. I recommend adding the hitch lock # S64027 to secure the carrier to your trailer.

I have also included a video demonstration on this bike rack for you to check out.

Lastly, with this or any other hanging-style rack, you may need an adapter like the Kuat # UB01 if you plan on transporting any children's, woman's or alternative frame bikes. This will provide a horizontal attachment point for level transport and improved ground clearance. I have attached a demonstration video so you can see exactly how this works and why it might be needed.

expert reply by: Chris R

1