Recommended Front Bike Rack for 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter RV

Updated 11/09/2020 | Published 11/08/2020

Question:

Im in the market for a bike rack that mounts on the front of my RV, a 2017 Mercedes Sprinter. I will be towing a Mazda Miata on a tow dolly. I have seen these types of racks on small busses in my community. Thanks

asked by: Gerald E

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you're looking for a front receiver hitch bike rack. This can be accomplished by installing a front hitch on your RV. The EcoHitch Hidden Front Mount Hitch # 306-X7352 is a confirmed fit for 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500. The hitch's price reflects the fact that it is made from an alloy that is produced only from US-sourced recycled materials making it a true made-in-the-USA product. It also has a load capacity of 500 lbs for your bike rack and bikes. I attached a video of it with bikes loaded on another's motorhome with a Sprinter chassis.

As for bike racks, make sure they're motorhome/RV compatible. RV bike racks are designed to be more heavy duty to handle the extra road stress, which is especially important if you have them hitched to the front. A great option is the Swagman E-Spec #S94FR since it's a platform bike that can not only handle that extra wear, it has a huge weight capacity of 70 lbs! Great if you have heavy e-bikes!

If your priority is to carry MORE bikes and you don't mind a hanging-style rack, then I recommend the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR. It has a lower weight capacity of 35 lbs per bike, but more features like folding or tilt-away. You won't need to use the tilt-away in front of your Sprinter, but it's still a nice feature to have if you want to use it on your other vehicles.

expert reply by: Evangeline M