Why Some Bike Racks Cannot Be Used on Travel Trailers

Published 09/04/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Saris SuperClamp EX Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(130)

$579.99

Lets Go Aero V-Lectric 3.0 Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(38)

$719.00

Swagman Trailhead RV Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches

(560)

$209.92

Question:

We notice that this bike rack is not recommended to be used with a travel trailer. Can someone please explain the reason for us. Our hitch on our trailer is rated for 300 LBS. Interestingly enough as well, there is a customer picture with one on a trailer just like ours.

asked by: Mary N

Helpful Expert Reply:

Because travel trailers have a less sophisticated suspension and a longer rear overhang than a passenger vehicle would, any accessory installed on the back of a travel trailer will be subjected to much more rattling, bouncing and banging around that it would see if it were installed on a car, truck or van. Bike racks for this application need to be specifically designed for use on a travel trailer, otherwise they'll be shaken to pieces pretty quickly, resulting in the loss of the bikes or even the bikes and the rack as you're traveling down the road which would be not so good.

Racks that ARE designed for that purpose are more robust and will lack the tilting feature that's a common failure point. The Swagman Trailhead, part # S63381, Original 4-bike # S64400 and Original 3-bike, part # S64152-2 are all built for this purpose. You could also look at the V-Lectric FAT PRO # LGA77FR. This rack slides away to give you access to the back of your vehicle.

I've linked to demonstration videos for the bike racks I mentioned above.

expert reply by: Mike L