Least Expensive Way to Carry Two 75 Lb Electric Bikes on 2016 Ram 1500

Published 05/12/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches

(1164)

$529.99

Inno Velo Gripper Bike Rack for Truck Beds - Clamp On

(224)

$134.57

Universal Magnetic Tow Lights - Red LEDs - 20' Wiring Harness with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(200)

$64.38

Question:

Hi Carla, Thanks for the detailed information given, I can now see I shall have to adjust a few things in my budget to get the proper hitch rack. The truck bed type is out as I have a cover on the bed. I do notice one thing no manufacturer makes and that is a stop light/running light that fits on the top of the rack nor one when rack is down but I have ideas on how to make one. My choice would be the Swagman so now I need to figure out which e-bike to buy and I already know there are none in my price range that are any good and have been upping the ante so just going to eat peanut butter and jelly so I can afford the better ones. LOL Again thanks for your help and once I'm ready shall be back.

asked by: Jon

Expert Reply:

I have a suggestion for you, but unfortunately, we're not going to have a hitch mounted bike rack for electric bikes that's going to fit into your budget. Most of our e-bike racks max out at 60 lbs per bike, so your least expensive options are going to be either the Swagman E-Spec # S94FR, with a capacity of 70 lbs per bike, or the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HLY74FR, with a capacity of 80 lbs per bike -- both over budget.

If you're able to utilize your truck bed to carry your e-bikes, your best option is going to be the Inno Velo Gripper Bike Rack # INRT201. Because the weight of your bikes rests on your truck bed, instead of the rack, it will easily hold your two 75 lb e-bikes securely in place during transport. The clamp that holds the bikes in place can be secured to either the seat post or the frame (up to 1-1/2" diameter). The best part, is that it comes in at about 1/4 of the price, when compared to a hitch mounted solution, making it super affordable.

Please note that if your 2016 Ram 1500 is equipped with the Rambox option, I recommend measuring from just above the bed rail where the top of the clamp would be to your Utility Rails to see if you have the 4 inches needed to secure the clamp to your truck. I've attached a review/installation video for you to check out at the bottom of the page.

expert reply by: Carla M

click to enlarge

Jon F.

5/12/2020

Carla M.

5/12/2020

To add tail lights to a bike rack, like the Swagman E-Spec # S94FR, I recommend using the MaxxTow magnetic light kit, # TLL21RK. Several customers have had success using these to add lights to their bike racks, if they happen to block their vehicle's tail lights. The provided harness plugs into the existing 4-way flat on your Ram and the magnetic bases on these tail lights allow you to easily attach them on any metal surface on the bike rack or on the vehicle. I've attached an example photo on a similar Swagman bike rack. May I suggest tuna sandwiches to your menu? They did the trick for me when I was in college! You have to switch up the sweet with the salty once in a while! :D