Difference Between RV Approved Bike Rack and Bike Rack for Standard Car Truck or SUV

Updated 12/16/2019 | Published 12/15/2019

Question:

What is the difference between an RV approved bike carrier and bike carriers for cars/trucks/SUVs? I assume a 2inch carrier is standard and superior for an RV vs. a 1 and 1/2 inch carrier is that the main difference? I have a small, 21 foot RV and would appreciate saving $150 by purchasing something like the Swagman XC2 instead of the Dispatch. Consumer reviews on other websites mostly indicate only 2inch carrier would be OK on an RV hitch.

asked by: Lee

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Swagman Dispatch # S44FR as well as the Swagman XC 2 bike rack # S64650 are actually RV approved bike racks, so if you need a rack for use behind your motorhome, you can definitely use the # S64650.

A vehicle is an RV if the horizontal distance from the rear axle to the hitch pin hole, tow ball, or back of rear bumper (if no hitch receiver or tow ball is present) is 72" or greater. The longer the distance, the higher the leverage. This is directly related to an increased amount of movement (especially vertical) which puts significantly more strain on the hitch mounted accessory. Therefore, any RV approved bike rack, goes through extensive stress testing and are generally designed with stronger weld points than non RV approved racks.

That being said, within the RV hitch bike rack category, there are certain racks that are approved for various RV uses, like on the back of a 5th wheel, motorhome, travel trailer or flat-towed vehicle. If you're using the rack on the back of a 5th wheel, travel trailer, or flat-tow vehicle instead, the Swagman Dispatch # S44FR is going to be your most economical option for a 2-bike rack.

I've included a link to our available selection of RV approved 2-bike platform racks for you to browse through. Just use the filter on the left to select your specific RV application.

expert reply by: Carla M