Recommended Hitch for a 2022 Grand Design Imagine XLS RBE for e-Bikes

Updated 09/12/2025 | Published 05/22/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Solera 12V Electric RV Awning Conversion Kit - 69&quot Arms - Black

(97)

$718.03

Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs, 22" to 72" Wide

(566)

$474.66

Question:

We have an Imagine 22 RBE RV made by grand design. We bought e-bikes and need to beef up the rear bumper. The bikes each are 75 pounds and the carrier is another 65 pounds. The spare tire is also attached to the bumper. Any suggestions?

asked by: Daniel C

Expert Reply:

Don't use a bumper mounted hitch would be my advice, especially if you're already worried about having to strengthen it. I can almost guarantee the bike rack you're using says not to use a bumper mounted hitch for the exact reasons you're concerned about.

Additionally, I looked up your Grand Design Imagines' owner's manual and it says not to attach any add on items to the rear bumper. I have included the screenshot below.

What you're going to need is a frame mounted hitch that goes on the rear of your travel trailer. Adding an additional 215 lbs is going to create quite a bit of bouncing and turbulence at the rear of your trailer and you're going to want something solidly supported.

I recommend the Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs item # 13703. This is a frame mounted 2" hitch that can be either bolted or welded onto the rear of your Grand Design. It has a 350 lbs tongue weight, which will be more than sufficient for your bike rack and e-bikes.

What make and model of bike rack do you have?