Recommended Bike Rack to Transport Step-Thru e-Bike Behind RV

Updated 02/06/2019 | Published 02/05/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Fat Tire Adapter Kit for Saris Freedom Bike Racks

(38)

$49.99

Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1189)

$529.99

Hollywood Racks Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(538)

$39.99

Question:

I am considering purchase of a RadMini Step-Thru new model. See specs attached. The ebike weigh 68lbs with the Lion battery but it could be removed making ebike 60lbs. I would haul bike behind a Motorhome with a Dual 2 Receiver Tube Adapter, 8 Extension that would allow me to continue to use my Blue Ox Avail hitch towing a 2015 Subaru Crosstrek. More than enough space between RV bumper and hitch. Also I dont need to access any compartment at the rear of the RV. So far I can not find a hitch mounted bike rack that will support the weight of the RadMini ebike. The second problem is that I plan to put fenders on the ebike and most rack use a tire hook clamp to hold the bike. I only plan to carry 1 ebike and not other bike but I would bike a 2 bike rack if that would help with the weight issue. I did find the Saris Freedom which would appear to support the ebike weigh especially since I only plan to carry 1 bike and could remove the battery if necessary. However, with a RadMini Step-Thru I am not sure if or how the Saris Freedom and/or Freedom EX center support system works. Any thoughts appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Bob H

Expert Reply:

We do have a nice selection of heavy-duty bike racks that can handle the weight of the RadMini e-Bike that you're considering, but the trick is finding one that is rated for use behind a motorhome. Not all bike racks (which includes the Saris Freedom # SA4412B that you mentioned) are tested and approved for use with this application, as the ride at the back of an RV is quite a bit rougher than at the rear of a standard passenger vehicle. This is simply because the hitch receiver is much further back from the rear axle on an RV (think about the ride at the back of a school bus).

For an RV approved bike rack that absolutely has the strength to hold your bike, I recommend taking a look at the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HLY84FR. This rack is designed specifically for both heavier e-bikes and fat bike tires, as it can safely support up to 2 bikes weighing 80 pounds each (so you don't have to worry about removing the battery) and the cradles will accommodate tires that are up to 5 inches wide.

The rack uses precision-clamping padded hooks to secure to the bike frame. On the Step-Thru model of the RadMini you will just need to add an adapter bar like the Hollywood Racks # HRBA-PRO to provide a horizontal attachment point. I have attached a short video review just so you can see how the bar works.

expert reply by: Chris R