Why Can't Some Bike Racks Be Used on Towed Trailers

Updated 07/14/2021 | Published 07/13/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Swagman XTC4 Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1638)

$399.81

Kuat Ubar Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(131)

$49.00

Question:

Why can’t this be used in a fifth wheel?

asked by: Josh P

Expert Reply:

Because the suspensions used on 5th wheels and travel trailers provide for a much rougher ride than what's typically found on a passenger vehicle, a bike rack used on a towed trailer would be subjected to a much harsher ride that would typically be experienced. Bike racks approved for use on towed vehicles are specifically designed to be more durable in order to stand up to the bouncing and battering. If a rack that isn't designed for that purpose is used, there's a good chance that the rack will be shook to pieces, sooner rather than later.

For a 4 bike rack that's specifically designed to withstand the rigors of being used on a towed trailer, I'd recommend the Swagman Original, part # S64400. The rack has a 35 lb per bike capacity, and works best with bikes that have a horizontal top tube. For women's bikes or bikes with step thru frames, a frame adapter bar like part # UB01 is recommended.

I'll link to a product demonstration video for the bike rack I recommended as well as to a demonstration video for the frame adapter so you can see how it works.

expert reply by: Mike L