Modifying Bike Rack to Carry Recumbent Bike

Updated 09/11/2013 | Published 09/10/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Wheel Hoop, Knob and Bolt for Swagman XC 2 Bike Carrier

(326)

$23.72

Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1953)

$181.62

Swagman XC-Extended Bike Rack for 2 Recumbent Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(76)

$295.59

Question:

Would it be possible to order two fold down arms 36inch long?. Have a recumbent with a 68inch wheel base

asked by: Charles M

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you are wanting to alter a Swagman XC # S64650 rack to accommodate a recumbent bike, is that correct? Swagman does offer a replacement fold down arm, but it would simply be a replacement for the original arm, and would not be long enough for your needs.

Typically, a recumbent bike is also wider than a regular bike, so in many cases simply increasing the wheelbase capability of the rack (if possible) would not do the trick anyway. A rack specifically designed for recumbent bikes, like the Swagman XC-Extended Bike Rack for 2 Recumbent Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # S64650-EXT would be a better choice for you. It a accommodates wheelbases up to 69 inches and it gives you 10 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest wheel loop to move the bikes away from your vehicle.

expert reply by: Mike L