Why Are Some Bike Racks Not Rated for Use Behind Fifth Wheels?

Updated 05/19/2026 | Published 05/17/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Hollywood Racks Destination E Bike Rack w/ 2 Battery Bags - 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches

$849.97

Question:

I’m curious as to why this bike rack is not rated for towing on the back of a fifth wheel. We have two Lectric brand Xpeak 2.0 bikes that we travel with. This is the bike rack recommended from multiple sources. We would be needing something that hitches to the back of our 2025 alliance avenue 32rls fifth wheel and, at times, the back of our 2018 Dodge 2500 pick up truck for cross country travel. Our fifth wheel hitch is rated for 300 pounds. Our bikes in total are 140 pounds together when loaded. Can you please advise on, if not this rack, what would you recommend. Thank you, Tanya

asked by: Tanya

Expert Reply:

Hi Tanya,

Only certain bike racks are recommended for use behind a fifth wheel due to the extra movement and bounce the rack has to withstand behind a fifth wheel compared to when it's on the back of a vehicle. Bike racks are tested by the manufacturer to determine if it can withstand the extra movement as the rack may get damaged over time being used behind a fifth wheel, flat towed vehicle, front mounted hitch, or motorhome. Because the manufacturer has found the rack not able to stand up to those conditions, it could be dangerous to use behind your fifth wheel as the rack could fail and damage your bikes, camper, or even other vehicles so I don't recommend using it in this situation.

Instead, I recommend using the Hollywood Racks RV Rider Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes part # HLY64FR. It is the same platform style, frame mount bike rack, but is rated for use with cars, SUVs, trucks, flat towed vehicles, and fifth wheels! It also has a higher weight capacity rating at 80lbs per bike instead of the 70lbs the HLY36FR is rated for. If you're using it on your Dodge 2500, the HLY64FR can also tilt away so you're still able to access your truck bed and secure it with the included keyed-alike hitch lock.

What kind of rides do you usually take your offroad electric bikes on?

expert reply by: Claire H