Can Thule Easy Fold XT Bike Rack Be Carried On Travel Trailer Without Bikes Loaded?

Updated 08/11/2020 | Published 08/08/2020

Question:

I know this rack is not rated to carry bikes on the back of a trailer. My heavy e-bikes will travel inside my MiniVan when I pull my trailer. My question is this: can I successfully travel with this rack mounted on the receiver on the back of the trailer if the rack is empty and folded up? The rack on the trailer is strong and welded to the frame not attached to the bumper. But can the empty rack withstand the bumping on the back of the trailer?

asked by: Christine G

Expert Reply:

Great question. The Thule EasyFold XT 2 E-Bike Platform Rack - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # TH903202 as you stated is not rated for carrying bikes on the back of a trailer, but it has not a not been tested with the rack being installed when not carrying bikes on the back of your trailer. Since that hasn't been tested in that way, my contact at Thule said it wouldn't be covered under warranty if there was an issue on the back or the trailer even though it is unlikely to have any issue.

The movement is far more limited without the weight of the bikes and when folded so it won't be an big strain on the shank, which is the biggest concern, to transport it in that way. Obviously once at the site, you can put it on your vehicle and then transport your bikes on the back of the vehicle or even store bikes on the trailer when not moving to secure them at the camp site. The tech said you can do whatever you want to do, but the warranty doesn't cover any use on the back of the trailer with or without bikes when the trailer is moving.

expert reply by: Jason S