Reversing the Cradles on the Swagman Current for More Clearance

Updated 08/28/2020 | Published 08/27/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Swagman Current Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(247)

$368.94

CR Brophy Hitch Extender for 1-1/4" Hitch Receivers - 5-3/4" Long

(111)

$83.92

Question:

Just got my swagman current today. I am so excited to try it on. I am really satisfied with how it looks like when installed on my hitch. Just had a minor problem with the clearance from the bumper when in a folded position. So i tried to reverse the installation of the cradle. Is it ok if i put it that way? Is there a cons if i use it that way? Thanks

asked by: James N

Expert Reply:

Interesting solution you thought of there to get extra clearance. There should be no issue with the Swagman Current # S64678 when it is folded up, but when it is down and bikes are mounted, that's a different story. The reasons the wheel cradles are installed in the outward position is to minimize bike rocking and to increase the different wheel bases (length of bikes) it can carry.

If both cradles are facing each other, the wheels have more space to rock back and forth against the cradles like they're inside a boat. The frame mount does most of the work and the straps help keep them in, but there is more stress on the straps and possibly the spokes when you make quick and tight turns. In the outward position, when the bike wanted to slide left, the right cradle stopped them and vice versa.

Another con is that you have less length for bikes within the bike rack. I attached a picture showing how our fat bike's wheels extend past the rack because of the outward facing cradles.

All in all, while reversing the cradles is a quick fix, it has its cons especially in the long run due to the possible wear it can have on your bike. Another option is a hitch extender, but our shortest one is CR Brophy Hitch Extender for 1-1/4" Hitch # hes6 and extends 5 3/4".

Hope that helps!

expert reply by: Evangeline M