Why Can't Saris MHS be Used at Rear of 5th Wheel Trailer

Published 02/01/2024

Question:

Is there a specific reason the Saris Hitch Bike Racks - SAR73MR is not rated for a 5th wheel but is for a motorhome?

asked by: Gary R

Expert Reply:

RVs in general have a much rougher ride quality than vehicles due to the less sophisticated suspension (mostly trailer) but also the much longer length between the rear axle of the motorhome and the rear bumper. This exaggerates the movement from bumps which puts an additional strain on the bike rack.

So fifth wheel trailers have the worse suspension and the increased length to bumper from axle which is why they have the harshest ride quality and the motorhomes only have one element of that...the longer bumper the axle distance. So that is why the Saris MHS bike rack part # SAR73MR is rated for use with a motorhome but not a 5th wheel trailer.

For a bike rack that is rated for 5tth wheel use we have the Swagman Escapee part # S39SR which is also a nicer bike rack that only touches the bikes by the wheels/tires.

expert reply by: Jameson C