Will Adding Heavier Bumper and Bike Rack with Bikes to Back of Trailer Make Tongue Weight Too Low

Updated 08/29/2014 | Published 08/28/2014

Question:

I have a Jayco Jay feather 23b camper. I was planning on replacing the damged bumper with a 41/2X41/2inch X 3/16inch thick bumper. This bumper would weigh about 82 lbs or about 40 to 50 lbs more than my old one. I plan on putting a couple bikes on the back. This may make my touge wait a little lighter. Which is currently about 490 lbs with battery and two lp tanks. I should not be to concerned about making my tounge weight a liitle lighter correct.

asked by: Dick S

Expert Reply:

Tongue weight should typically be 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight. Adding what would likely be about 100 pounds to the very back of the trailer wouldn't decrease the tongue weight too much. If you notice that the trailer is more susceptible to sway after installing the new bumper and bike rack/bikes, then it could be because the tongue weight is too light and adding a little weight to better balance it out should take care of the issue.

As long as the tongue weight is within the range of the weight distribution system it will not be a problem. If the tongue weight goes below the capacity of the system the system will not be effective.

If you do not already have a bike rack please keep in mind that only certain bike racks are rated for use at the back of a trailer. I have included a link to the compatible racks that we carry to the right.

expert reply by: Michael H