Hitch Extensions Recommendations for a Bike Rack on Camper Truck

Updated 04/04/2014 | Published 04/03/2014

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Replacement 1-1/4" and 2" Shank for Swagman XTC-2 Series Bike Carriers

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Surco 2 Bike Carrier for Vans and RVs - Ladder Mount

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Question:

I have a Northern Lite truck camper, 10Ft 2 inch that sticks out behind my truck about 28 inches, add the step another 10 inches so 38 inches. Actually the distance from the truck hitch receiver to the back of the step is an estimated 33inches. I have a Thule bike rack sorry that I have had for some time but I need an extension of about 33 inches or 3 ft so that it can clear the step. Do you have anything or what can I use. I called Northern Lite and they said that you might be able to help me. I thought about using your swagman bumper adaptor but the Northern Lite dealer Okanagan Travel Land and Northern Lite would prefer that I put some sort of hitch extender and use the hitch receiver on the back of my truck. Can you help. My newer truck is Chev, and it hangs over about the same amount.

asked by: Terry M

Helpful Expert Reply:

For an extender that long you will need a 2-1/2 inch receiver and an extender like the Titan Hitch Box Extension and Reducer for 2-1/2 inch trailer hitches # RP45292. If your hitch is not a 2-1/2 inch receiver you cannot use the Titan extender.

You need to keep in mind your limitations when using an adapter or extender. Using a hitch extender on a 2-inch hitch will reduce your trailer hitch tongue capacity by 50 percent. So if your trailer hitch is rated for 350 pounds of vertical load, you will only be able to load 175 pounds on the hitch. You will need to take the weight of the rack, the adapter/extender and the bikes into consideration when calculating your tongue weight.

Also, you mention you have a Thule bike rack. Most Thule bike racks cannot be used with a hitch extender or adapter.

A better option would be an RV and Motorhome Bike Rack like # SP501BR. The arms of this rack attach to any RV or van ladder that has 1" diameter vertical support rails. The rack holds two bikes vertically.

A last option would be a front-mounted hitch, though these come with decreased visibility, reduced air flow to the radiator and they may block headlights, and, of course, will require that your vehicle have a front-mounted hitch. If you want to go this route I will need to know the year and model Chevy truck you have to determine if there is a front-mount hitch that fits.

expert reply by: Chris O