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8 Best RV Bike Racks in 2024: Hitch Options for Your Travel Trailer

• Last Updated: May 29, 2024
• 37 minutes read

Finding the  best RV bike racks  is more than just a matter of convenience—it’s a necessity for RV enthusiasts like us who love to take our bikes on the road.

Throughout my years of RVing, I’ve tested a wide range of bike racks to find which ones offer the best balance of security, ease of installation, and vehicle compatibility.

Among them, I’ve reviewed dozens specifically designed for RV use, evaluating how well they handle everything from mountain bikes to daily riders.

The standout, in my expert opinion, is the  Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount RV Approved Bike Rack .

Its robust design, ease of use, and versatility for different bike sizes and outdoor environments make it unparalleled.

Whether you’re looking to hit the trails with your mountain bike or cruise the campgrounds, a reliable hitch bike rack is indispensable.

Based on my experience, the top best RV bike racks are:

• Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount RV Approved Bike Rack : Best overall for its versatility and ease of use
• Ladder Mounted Surco 501BR bike rack : Great for RVs with limited hitch access
• Quick QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted Rv bike rack : Excellent choice for those preferring a bumper mount
• Swagman 2 Bike Bumper Rack RV Approved : Good value for carrying two bikes securely on the RV bumper
• CURT 18065 5 Bicycles Trailer Hitch Bike Rack : Top pick for families or groups, holding up to 5 bikes
• Camco 51492 Ladder Mount RV bike rack : Ideal for easy installation and ladder-mounted convenience
• Hollywood Sportrider Se hitch bike rack : Heavy-duty option for serious bikers with various bike types
• Lippert Let’s Go Aero Jack 2 bike Carrier System : Innovative design for minimal sway and enhanced road safety

IN THIS ARTICLE

1. Best Overall: Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount RV Approved Bike Rack

The Swagman Traveler XC2 is our top choice for the best overall RV bike rack because it’s adaptable to work well with multiple sizes of campers and trailers.

It fits a standard two-inch hitch receiver and can hold up to two bikes that weigh a maximum of 35 pounds each. 

While it’s advertised as a hitch-mounted RV bike rack, it can also be secured to a 4.5-inch steel-welded RV bumper adapter.

This makes it somewhat of a hybrid rack and further increases its versatility and ability to work with a wide variety of RV designs. 

You’ll be able to transport bikes with tire sizes ranging from 20 to 29 inches with this rack.

You will, however, need to purchase Swagman’s Bar Adapter if you wish to transport step-through or cruiser-style bikes with this rack. 

The Swagman Traveler rack itself weighs just over 36 pounds and it folds up for easy portability when you remove it from your RV.

Things We Like

• Fits Standard Hitch: This rack fits a two-inch, Class 3 hitch receiver.
• Versatile Installation: Works as a hitch-mounted or bumper-mounted rack.
• Bike Sizes: Works with bike tires from 20 to 29 inches in size.
• Foldable: Makes it easy to store and transport when not in use.

Things We Don’t Like

• Bike Capacity: This rack is only able to fit two bikes.

2. Best Ladder-Mounted Rack: Ladder Mounted Surco 501BR bike rack

If you prefer a bike racks for rv ladder because you don’t have (or want to use) a hitch or bumper on your RV, you can’t beat the Surco 501BR ladder-mounted rack.

This model is compatible with the ladder on any style van or RV and it includes pivoting arms that make it easier to access the ladder without completely remove the rack. 

Of course, the bikes will still have to be taken off, but this is a super-convenient feature that many ladder-mounted racks don’t offer.

You’ll be able to carry two bikes on this rack and it can be installed without the need for any extra straps or the need to remove the ladder from your RV. 

The Surco rack is also super lightweight and weighs less than four pounds. So it’s easy to move around when you do take it off your RV.

It’s made of heavy-gauge aluminum with a polished finish for added corrosion resistance. 

Surco racks are also made in the USA and arrive at your door fully assembled, which further reduces the amount of effort and time needed to install it.

This particular model can handle up to 75 pounds (or two bikes weighing roughly 37.5 pounds each).

• Pivoting Arms: Allows you to access your RV ladder without removing the rack.
• Compatibility: Fits ladders on any style of van or RV.
• Easy Installation: Doesn’t require straps or any additional hardware.
• Ladder Mounted: Allows you to retain access to your bumper and hitch for other towing/hauling needs.
• Bike Capacity: This rack is able to hold only two bikes.
• Ladder Access: This rack will still somewhat restrict access to your RV ladder.

3. Best Budget-Friendly: Quick QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted RV bike rack

If you’re searching for a budget-friendly bike rack, you’ll be hard-pressed to beat the price tag on the Quick Products QPRBM2R bumper-mounted rack.

This rack can be mounted on a four-inch or 4.5-inch steel-welded RV bumper and it can carry up to two bikes. 

In terms of weight capacity, this rack is designed to hold a total of 60 pounds (or 30 pounds per bike).

It does, however, allow you to customize the space between the slots where your tires will sit so that it can accommodate bikes of many different lengths. 

The entire rack is made of stainless steel and it’s finished with a powder coating for added corrosion resistance.

It can fit bikes with tires up to 29 inches but is not capable of transporting “Fat Tire” bikes. 

The slotted wheel wells on this rack make it super easy to set your bike tires in place when loading up.

And the stabilizer post gives you a convenient place to both support your bikes and then fasten them down once they’re loaded on.

• Price: This is the most budget-friendly rack on our list.
• Adjustability: Accommodates bikes of many different lengths.
• Powder Coated Finish: Provides resistance against rust and corrosion.
• Slotted Wheel Wells: This design makes it really easy to load bikes without having to lift them too high.
• Mounting: It will only work with RVs that have a 4-inch or 4.5-inch steel-welded bumper.
• Bike Capacity: This rack holds only two bikes.

4. Best Bumper Rack: Swagman 2 Bike Bumper Rack RV Approved

For those of you that have an RV with a solid, steel-welded bumper to which you want to attach a bike rack, the Swagman  Bumper Rack is arguably your best choice for such an installation.

It’s super lightweight at less than one pound and it features heavy-duty steel construction. 

The steel used in this rack is also finished with black paint and powder coating for added corrosion resistance.

It’s designed to be installed on four-inch or 4.5-inch steel-welded bumpers and secures in place using 6.5-inch and 8-inch long bolts around the bumper. 

You’ll be able to transport two bikes on this rack and it can carry a total of 60 pounds (or 30 pounds per bike).

The rack has two sets of slots where the bike wheels can be inserted and then a central post gives you a place to secure the bikes. 

Because the racks are actually two separate pieces, they can be positioned as far apart from each other as necessary for your specific bike sizes.

And this rack also supports a wide variety of bike tire sizes.

• Lightweight: This rack weighs less than one pound.
• Price: This is also a super budget-friendly RV bike rack!
• Heavy-Duty Construction: Includes a powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance.
• Versatility: Can be adjusted to fit bikes of many different lengths and tire sizes.
• Bike Capacity: This rack (again!) fits only two bikes.
• Installation: May require a little more installation time than other racks.

5. Largest Capacity: CURT 18065 5 Bicycles Trailer Hitch Bike Rack

Those of you that have more than two bikes you want to strap on the back of your RV should consider the large capacity of the Curt 18065 rack.

It can hold up to five bikes and boasts a maximum total weight capacity of 225 pounds, which comes out to roughly 45 pounds per bike. 

This is a hitch-mounted rv bike carrier that fits a standard two-inch hitch receiver. It features tapered arms that make it easier to fit bikes of multiple different sizes on the rack without handlebars getting in the way of each other.

This makes it a great option for families transporting both kid and adult-sized bikes. 

The rack secures to your trailer hitch with an anti-rattle pin and the two-inch shank is threaded to reduce rack sway while traveling.

The rack is also equipped with built-in reflectors so that other drivers can clearly see you’re carrying something behind your RV when visibility gets low. 

When you need to remove this rack, take out the pin and simply slide the shank out of the receiver hitch.

The tapered arms actually fold down for more compact storage and the entire rack (when empty) weighs 43 pounds. 

The vertical arm of the rack can also tilt down if you need to access anything on your RV behind the rack, which also makes it useful for cab-over campers with entry doors on the back.

And finally, this rack is finished with a carbide black powder coating to increase durability and provide extra corrosion resistance over its lifetime.

• Large Capacity: This rack holds up to five bikes and a total of 225 pounds.
• Hitch-Mount Installation: Makes it easy to install and remove in seconds.
• Tapered Arms: Makes it easier to fit bikes of different sizes on the rack together.
• Powder Coat Finish: Reduces build-up of rust or corrosion over time.
• Not For Trailer Use: This rack is designed for use on RVs, vans, trucks, SUVS, or other vehicles with a tow package. But it shouldn’t be used behind a trailer or other accessory that’s already being towed.

6. Runner Up For Best Ladder-Mount Rack: Camco 51492 Ladder Mount RV bike rack

While we couldn’t quite give the Camco Ladder Rack 51492 our top pick for the best ladder rack, this model comes in a close second to the Surco rack we highlighted above.

This rack can easily be hooked onto the ladder of your RV or trailer and can hold up to two bikes and a maximum of 60 pounds. 

There are two sets of soft grips on the horizontal rungs of this rack where your bikes will sit once loaded on.

These grips help protect your bike from any damage while you’re bumping along down the road and straps secure them down so you can be sure they aren’t going anywhere. 

The bonus of opting for a ladder-mounted rv bike carrier like this one is that you can use your ladder itself as a hard point to which you can lock your bikes overnight or if you decide to go for a walk into town.

And because your bikes will be stored relatively close to the ladder, you won’t need a super-long bike lock to make this work. 

When you do remove this rack and need to store it away, the entire rack folds in on itself and weighs just eight pounds.

So it’s easy to move and doesn’t require a lot of space to store. The only downside of this rack is that it stores your bikes horizontally, which means they might stick out past the side of your RV, depending on the exact location of your RV ladder.

• Easy Installation: This rack simply hooks over the rungs of your RV ladder and straps in place.
• Lightweight and Compact: This rack weighs just over 8 pounds and folds up for easy storage when not in use.
• Soft Grips: Hold your bikes in place and protect them from damage.
• Bonus Straps: Secure your bikes in place and keep them from moving around while driving.
• Holds Bikes Horizontally: This means that bikes may stick out past the side of your RV, depending on where exactly your RV ladder is located.

7. Best For Add-Ons: Hollywood Sportrider Se hitch bike rack

If you’re interested in a two-bike rack that gives you the flexibility to add accessories for more hauling capacity in the future, the Hollywood Racks Sportrider SE is one of the best options out there.

It’s compatible with Hollywood’s two-bike add on kit or their cargo basket if you eventually need extra storage. 

This is a hitch-mounted rv bicycle rack that can hold up to two bikes and a maximum of 100 pounds.

It features heavy-duty construction and fits a standard two-inch hitch receiver.

It also boasts a unique hitch tightening system that reduces rack wobble while you’re driving and provides a more secure installation.

The wheel holders on this rack are adjustable to fit bikes with a variety of wheelbase sizes.

It can fit wheelbases up to 60 inches and it includes locking frame hooks that secure the bikes to the rack with ease.

This rack also includes a locking hitch pin and security cable for added theft protection. 

While it is one of the more expensive racks on our list, it offers more versatility and security than almost any other option.

And if you want to keep this rack installed even when you’re not hauling bikes, it can fold flat against the back of your RV so you don’t have to worry about it extending off the back if you need to park in a tight space.

• Compatible With Add-Ons: You can add more bike storage or a cargo basket down the line.
• Heavy-Duty Construction: Makes this a durable rack that’s designed to last for years.
• Weight Capacity: This rack is rated to hold a maximum of 100 pounds (or 50 pounds per bike).
• Hitch Tightening System: Reduces rack wobble and provides a secure fit on two-inch hitch receivers.
• Price: This is one of the more expensive racks on our list, in part because of its versatility and heavy-duty construction.

8. Best For Travel Trailers: Lippert Let’s Go Aero Jack 2 bike Carrier System

If you own a travel trailer that doesn’t have a steel-welded bumper, you’ve probably been wondering when we would get to an option suited for your situation.

Well, here we are at the Let’s Go Aero Jack-It Double Bike Carrier System. This rack doesn’t require a ladder, hitch, or bumper for secure installation. 

Instead, it secures to the tongue of your travel trailer in between the trailer and the vehicle you’re towing it with.

It’s designed to fit most A-frame travel and cargo trailers and is compatible with all bike frames.

And by installing it on the tongue of your trailer, this rack will experience much less bounce than a rack installed on the back of an RV or trailer. 

This carrier system can hold up to two bikes and offers a maximum weight capacity of 80 pounds (or 40 pounds per bike.

The camper bicycle rack itself weighs just 25 pounds and it mounts directly over the tongue jack on your A-frame trailer.

The good news about this rack is that it won’t void any existing chassis warranty when installed properly.

And speaking of proper installation, this rack comes with two Sway Control cradles and two lockable ‘No-Motion’ pins to prevent it from moving around while you’re driving.

This reduces the likelihood of pins or components loosening while you’re on the road, which can be a problem with some other racks. 

• Unique Design: Helps you maximize towing and hauling capacity with a travel trailer.
• Versatility: This rack fits all bike frames.
• Less Bounce: Because it’s installed on the tongue of your trailer, this rack bounces less than others mounted on the back of an RV or trailer.
• Sway Control: The rack includes cradles to help prevent sway that can loosen components on other racks over time.
• Loading Process: This rack is unique in the way it carries your bikes, so loading it might take some time to get used to.
• Price: Because of the unique design and high-quality components, this rack is a more costly option than some others.

Choosing The Best RV Bike Rack

Okay, so those are the best RV bike rack models we could find on the market today.

But to help you make the best decision possible, we need to cover the most important factors to consider when comparing any bike rack model against another. 

What Type Of RV Bike Rack Do I Need?

The most appropriate place to start is to define the three main types of RV bike racks.

These racks are defined by the method in which they attach to your RV and, as you might suspect, there are pros and cons to each method. 

Bike Rack For RV Ladder

This type of rack hooks onto the rungs of the ladder on the back of your RV. It will also work with the ladders on the back of most travel trailers.

These racks are designed so that your bikes hook onto them vertically, with the front tire closest to the ground. 

The benefit of this rack is that you can still use your hitch to tow a vehicle or trailer behind your RV.

But these racks also tend to have a lower weight capacity and few can hold more than two bikes at a time. 

The other downside of a ladder-mounted rack is that you’ll need to remove it every time you need to go up your RV ladder.

In some emergency cases, you might need quick access to your roof and a ladder-mounted rack can hinder your ability to get up there quickly to patch a leak or perform any sort of emergency repair. 

While they can offer a more cost-effective alternative to the other two rack types on our list, they tend to be looked at as a final option for those that don’t have a hitch or bumper to install another rack on. 

Bike Rack For RV Bumper

Bumper-mounted racks are nice because your bikes will sit lower and they can eliminate any visibility issues that can come with your bikes being in the way of your RV’s back window or back-up camera. 

This type of rack, of course, requires that you have a solid, steel-welded bumper on the back of your RV.

That bumper is what will support both the weight of the rack and the weight of the bikes you eventually load onto it.

So that’s one of the reasons why most of these racks carry a maximum of two bikes. 

Depending on the design of your RV, you may be able to install a bumper-mounted rack and still have access to your hitch for towing purposes.

But these racks should generally only be purchased for RVs with a solid steel bumper that’s strong enough to support the weight of the rack and your bikes. 

Hitch-Mounted Bike Racks

Hitch-mounted racks are the most common choice for RV travelers. But they’re only a good selection if you don’t plan to use your trailer hitch for any other purpose.

You should also make sure that your RV already has a hitch receiver or you’ll have a much harder time installing one of these racks. 

This type of rack also requires compatibility with the size of your hitch receiver. Most standard hitches are two inches in diameter, but there are a variety of other sizes out there.

So just be sure that the hitch on the rack will fit inside the existing hitch receiver on your RV before making a purchase. 

Hitch-mounted racks tend to give you the ability to carry more bikes than the other two types of racks.

They come with capacities varying from just two bikes up to five (or more!) bikes and they tend to have a higher weight capacity than the other two racks. 

Because they install easily into a standard two-inch hitch, this type of rack can also be installed on your other vehicles.

So if you have a truck or SUV with a tow package, you’ll also be able to use your hitch-mounted rack on your other vehicles. 

These racks are super easy to install and remove from your RV. They come in two different styles: hanging and platform racks.

The style you choose will really be up to your personal preference and how many bikes you like to bring along on your RV adventures. 

Number of Bikes  Bikes Do You Want To Carry With You?

The number of bikes you need to carry is an obvious factor that will help you narrow down your choices. The racks we’ve included above hold anywhere from two to five bicycles. 

But the important point here is that the rack you choose must be able to fit all of the bikes you’d want to bring on your RV adventures. 

When considering the number of bikes you want to carry, you should also consider if you ever invite friends or another couple to travel in your RV with you.

If that’s ever the case for you, you might want a rack that can hold more bikes so that you always have the option instead of coming up short when it matters most. 

Some of these racks give you the capability to add an additional accessory so that you can carry more bikes.

If you’re a young couple with only two bikes right now but you expect to add to that total in the coming years, one of these expandable racks could be a great choice for you in both the short and long term. 

The size of your bikes will dictate whether or not you’ll be able to strap them onto a given rack securely.

And strapping multiple bikes onto one rack can present other challenges depending on the size and design of your bikes. 

One example is trying to fit a large mountain bike with straight handles next to a smaller bike with the type of curved handles that are more common to road bikes.

This handlebar incompatibility can present issues if there’s not sufficient space between the bikes. 

But the size of your bikes can also impact whether or not they simply fit on your chosen rack.

Even though many of these racks are adjustable so that they can fit a wide range of bikes, you should be careful to measure the length of your bike to make sure it will fit on your chosen rack, which is especially true if you choose a bumper-mounted rack. 

For ladder-mounted racks, you must also be sure that your bikes won’t stick out on the side of your RV.

This will create a risk of clipping signs or running into other objects if you don’t swing wide enough.

In turn, this can make a ladder-mounted rack unsafe for other drivers on the road as well. 

Rack Weight Capacity

Many of these racks have a maximum weight capacity for safe hauling.

This capacity should clearly be advertised when you’re looking at the rack’s specifications online.

Your job will simply be to make sure the weight of the bikes you plan to load onto the rack doesn’t exceed that rack’s maximum weight capacity. 

The type of materials used in the construction of a rack is responsible for how well it can hold up against the elements.

Because of their primary use, RV bike racks spend most of their time outside and subject to the whims of Mother Nature. 

The strongest racks on the market today typically feature stainless steel construction, but there are also aluminum options out there.

Ideally, if you can find a rack that’s finished with an exterior powder coating, that’s going to go a long way to reduce the build-up of corrosion on the rack, which is especially important if you live in (or frequently travel to) a wet or humid climate. 

One of the best ways to really assess the quality and durability of a rack is to dive deep into the consumer reviews that people have posted on eCommerce sites where the rack is being sold.

These reviews will give you real-life accounts of how a certain rack performed and held up to multiple years of regular use. 

How Much Dose RV Bike Racks Cost?

When it comes to your bottom line, even the best RV bike rack shouldn’t put a huge dent in your RV budget.

These RV bike racks are affordable and essential to safely transport bikes on your RV.

From our research, it’s clear that you should be able to find a quality RV bike rack if you’re willing to spend between $60 and $200.

Considering that some of us have bikes that came with four-digit price tags, this is a pretty minimal investment to make sure your bikes are safe and secure wherever you decide to point your RV next!

So, Which Is The Best Bike Rack For Your RV?

We chose the Swagman Traveler XC2 bike rack as the best overall selection because it’s a useful choice for many different types of RVs. It’s one of the more versatile choices on our list because it can be hitch-mounted or bumper-mounted depending on your preference and the design of your RV.

It can also accommodate bikes of many sizes, with tires ranging from 20 to 29 inches. 

But if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Quick Products QPRBM2R bumper-mounted rack is a solid choice for a rack that won’t break the bank.

It can hold up to two bikes at a maximum of 30 pounds per bike and fits on 4-inch or 4.5-inch square RV bumpers.

This rack also allows you to customize its width to fit bikes of many different sizes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Even if you have a great idea for how to choose an RV bike rack and which model is the best for you, there are still a few things here that will help you once you have your new bike rack in hand.

These are some of the most frequently asked questions about RV bike racks. 

What are some tips for installing a bike rack?

The correct process for installing a bike rack will obviously depend on the type of rack you choose.

So the most straightforward answer we can give you here is to consult the manufacturer’s installation requirements to make sure you’re installing your chosen rack correctly. 

That being said, bumper-mounted racks tend to require the most installation time and energy of the three types.

They require more hardware and, therefore, must be more carefully installed to be sure that the rack will be able to support the weight of your bikes once you load them on. 

You’ll often need to screw on an adapter that wraps around the top and bottom of your RV’s steel-welded bumper.

Then can install screws and nuts to secure the bracket on top of the bumper and make sure it’s locked into place. 

Lastly, the rest of the rack will slide into place and fasten with some type of bolt or pin. 

For hitch-mounted racks, the installation is as simple as sliding the rack into the hitch receiver and secure the pin in place.

Ladder racks simply hook over the rungs of your RV ladder and strap securely into place. 

If you do have trouble following the instructions in the manual that comes with the rack you purchase, you can always call the manufacturer’s customer service line for guidance.

If that doesn’t work, YouTube is also a great resource for videos that will clearly explain how to properly install the most common RV bike racks. 

How to properly load bikes on an RV bike rack?

This will depend, of course, on the type of rack you choose and whether you’ll need to load bikes onto a platform or hang them from horizontal bars.

But for both of these rack types, it’s typically best to load bikes with handlebars facing in opposite directions. 

For example, if you load the first bike on with the handlebars towards the passenger side of your RV or trailer, the next bike should be loaded with handlebars facing the driver’s side.

This will help you fit bikes together more easily and you should always make sure that pedals aren’t sticking through spokes or any important mechanical components aren’t going to bang together while you’re transporting your bikes. 

What are the best brands for RV bike racks?

For our money, Swagman, Lippert, and Hollywood Racks are three of the top brands currently producing RV-specific bike racks.

Swagman offers a number of different designs for RV of different classes and Lippert is well-known for having arguably the best customer service in the industry.

Hollywood Racks also produces high-quality designs made for a variety of different installations but, true to their name, their racks tend to be a bit more expensive than others. 

Can I attach other things to my bike rack?

We don’t recommend it! While we’re not going to tell you that it’s absolutely impossible to attach items other than bikes to your bike rack, that’s simply not what it was designed for.

And clumsily strapping items that aren’t meant to be transported on a bike rack can cause damage to either the rack of any of the vehicles following you on the highway.

These racks are specifically designed for transporting bikes and they should be used for this specific purpose. 

Biking is one of our favorite past times when we get to a new location in our RV.

It’s a great way to get to know your campground or new neighborhood without having to drive your RV down tight one-way streets and it allows you to see more in a short period of time than you would be able to on foot. 

With a quality RV bike rack on the back of our rig, we can be confident our bikes will go with us wherever we decide to explore.

And it also gives us a safe place to lock our bikes up when we have to spend a quick night in a Wal-Mart parking lot on the way to a new (and more scenic) destination! 

We hope you’ve found these reviews and our bike rack buying guide useful and we wish you only the best of luck choosing the right rack for your particular RV or trailer setup!

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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11 Best Bike Racks for Travel Trailers (Updated 2023)

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As there are many types of bike racks available for your travel trailers, it is common to get confused. Choosing the right bike rack needs much experience and you need to think it over carefully according to your requirements.

So in this article, we present you with a list of bike racks that are suitable for any RV or travel trailer.

Different Types of Bike Racks for Travel Trailers

There can be plenty of bike racks for your travel trailer. They are all of the different shapes, sizes, and styles. Based on the preferences of different people, these racks had categorized into several types. If you are wishing to transport or haul your bikes with an RV or trailer, you need to find out which type of rack will be the most perfect for your trailer or RV. In order to get the perfect bike rack for your trailer, you need to be clear about these types of bike racks.

Just like the types of bike racks for normal vehicles, there are generally three types of bike racks available for Trailers, RVs, 5th Wheel Campers, and similar type vehicles. They are – hitch-mount, bumper-mount, and ladder-mount bike racks. We are going to demonstrate each of these racks and highlight the differences among these bike racks. Therefore, the management for choosing the suitable type for your trailer will be much easier once you have identified the differences.

Hitch-Mount Racks:

Most of the RVs, trailers come with a hitch pre-installed. So, hitch-mount bike racks are the most popular for a trailer. Moreover, the people who own an RV or a trailer; kind of look for the hitch-mount racks first rather than the other types because these are the choices that come into their minds first.

Again, these racks have different kinds with different bike load capacities. Most of the time you will find that these racks have the ability to carry 2, 3, or 4 bicycles respectively and you will find them in the market accordingly. Depending on how these racks carry your bikes, they can be found in hanging-style and platform-style.

With that being said, it is up to you to decide what style of hitch-mount bike rack suits your trailer the best. At the same time, you should also determine how many bikes you are willing to carry according to your preference. You may already know, hitch-mount bike racks are also available for regular type vehicles. This shows excellent versatility for such bike racks as these racks have proved to work very well with almost all regular types of vehicles.

The main difference between a regular vehicle hitch-mount and a trailer hitch-mount is the size of the hitch-receiver. Most regular hitch-mount racks work with 1.25” x 1.25” or 2” x 2” receivers. On the other hand, trailer hitch-mount racks only work with 2” X 2” receivers. But that doesn’t mean that you should try a regular hitch rack on a trailer because the hitch racks that are built for trailers or RVs are much stronger and can handle excessive pressure for being mounted at the back of an RV or a trailer. That is why these racks are called “RV approved”.

Bumper-Mount Racks:

If your bikes remain in a horizontal position while they are being mounted on a bike rack and also stays relatively high above the ground, then you may face a problem. The problem is the difficulty of accessing the rear-view mirror. When the bikes remain in such a position, the only thing you see when you look at the rear-view mirror is your bikes. They block the view and it will become difficult to see what is behind your vehicle. This difficulty rises to the next level when you are trying to park your trailer or you are driving backwards.

Therefore, some trailer owners like to have a bumper-mount rack for transporting their bikes. Bumper-mount bike racks provide a clear view by eliminating any visibility issues. Therefore, for the cautious drivers; these racks will come in very handy.

Hence, you may experience some issues if you use this kind of bike rack. For example – these racks can only work with a trailer or RV that has Steel welded bumper. Any spot-welded bumper or aluminium constructed bumper will not work with these types of racks. Then again, your RV or trailer must have a 4” to 4.5” square shape bumper otherwise; these racks will not accommodate. Most of the time, they are made to transport two or four bikes of the same type and size. So, if you plan on transporting two different types of bikes however, this type of rack is not suitable for you.

We should also inform you that a rack like this can provide the strength that can adapt the pressure coming from your bike’s weight. This type of rack maintains a balance of the overall weight combining the bikes and the trailer. Just make sure your RV or trailer features the optimal bumper if you wish to mount a rack like this. Most of these racks are able to carry either 2 or 4 bikes and they don’t require the usage of the hitch. As a result, you get an option to mount other things on your trailer hitch.

Ladder-Mount Racks:

The last but not least type of bike rack is the ladder-mount type. If your trailer contains a ladder at the back, then you can think of installing this type of bike rack. This type of rack keeps your bikes vertically where the front tires remain facing towards the ground. Most of the time, you will find these racks carrying two bikes at the back of an RV or trailer. Sometimes, they ensure proper security by providing hooks and rubber straps for the bikes.

Sadly, there are some disadvantages to this type of rack as well. We can start with the difficulty of loading and unloading of the bikes. Since your bikes remain at a high level attached to the ladder. So when you are a short guy or if you own quite heavy bikes, then there will be a hassle to load and unload your bikes as lifting them at a higher level will be quite difficult. Again, if you want to access the ladder for other means, you have to unmount the rack first and you have to do that every time you want to access the ladder that is very tiresome and exhausting. Moreover, these racks don’t have a mentionable capacity for bike loading. They can be expected to carry at most 2 bikes and they have to be very light.

When you know about the advantages and disadvantages of these bike racks, you can probably understand that these racks are for those who don’t have any hitch or bumper on their RVs or trailers. So if your RV or trailer do have a bumper that is capable of mounting a bumper-mount rack or a hitch that is appropriate for a hitch-mount rack, then you should go for them instead of buying a ladder-mount bike rack.

The Importance of a Trailer Bike Rack

If you are thinking – “I have an RV that is different from a regular vehicle, should I buy a bike rack ?” Then I must say you obviously should. Having a bike rack on your trailer can be beneficial in a multitude of ways. Like any regular vehicle, a trailer lets you the option to mount a bike rack on its hitch-receiver, bumper, or even on the ladder if it contains any. The manufacturers already thought about this requirement, so they built these vehicles in such a way that they can adapt a bike rack. So what is the importance of an RV or trailer bike racks that will lead you to buy them? We are going to discuss them below –

You can maintain a good condition of your bikes:

If you think you can store your bikes inside your RV or probably you are already doing it, then it will be normal that your bikes will be prone to scratches and damages as they are being stored in a small space

The situation will be worse if you make a typical RV ride on a bumpy road. Your bikes will collide with each other and get damaged and scratched off their paints. As a result, they will certainly vanquish their overall quality. So if you are wise, you should not hesitate to invest in a good quality bike carrier for your trailer.

you invest in a quality bike carrier and invest once rather than buying different cheap racks again and again. Different RV bike racks protect your bikes in different ways. So before you buy, try to make sure the bike rack that you are buying will carry your bikes in the most convenient way and will meet the requirements to adjust your trailer.

Convenient storage of your bikes:

I don’t have to remind you again that you can store your bikes on a bike rack in a suitable way instead of just storing them inside your trailer, you already know that. If you are a real outdoor sports lover who loves to go out with his bike frequently, then you need a suitable bike carrier no matter what type of vehicle you drive. Because of the limited storage inside of an RV or trailer, loading your bikes will be problematic.

The problem arises when you plan to make a group tour with multiple bikes. It is almost impossible to make a tour of 4 or 5 people where everyone has a bike and you need to load their bikes and also your bike along with them. A high-quality bike rack can carry multiple bikes at the same time and keep them secured and protected during the whole tour. Therefore, a lot of valuable room inside your RV or trailer will be saved.

You will have peace in mind when you know that your bikes are safe on the rack and with the available space inside your trailer, you can keep other necessary stuff that you will pick up during the trip.

Bike loading and rack’s portability:

A problem may arise when you simply just leave your bikes inside your trailer. That is the loading and unloading problem of your bikes. If you are somehow able to cram your bikes inside your RV, it will be very difficult to take them out. It will be a trouble because you need to take your bike out from a small space and you may damage or scratch the bike while taking it out. The trouble will be bigger if your trailer is filled with other stuff and all of the stuff is laying on your bike. If you really wish to damage your bike you can do that. There is also another problem when you want to take out your bike even if there is no stuff laying on your bike. The problem is the weight of your bike. It will be very tough to take out a heavy bike from inside an RV. All these loading and unloading problems can be solved easily if you install a bike carrier on your trailer. An ultimate bike carrier can make storing and removing your bikes a breeze.

However, this feature ultimately depends on the type of bike rack as some of the types need some effort to mount and unmount the bikes. For instance, storing and removing your bikes on a ladder-mount bike rack can be challenging due to the heights where this type of rack keeps your bikes.

When we talk about the portability of RV or trailer bike racks, we can see that most types of these racks stick to the RV or trailer. When you install a bike rack on your trailer or RV, you should know you can’t install and uninstall the rack again and again. These racks were meant to attach to the trailer for a long period of time, they don’t permit you to carry them around in your hand.

Keep your bikes safe from collision:

If you wish to proceed with your journey leaving your bikes inside your RV, then you will certainly make a grave mistake. Your bikes will tangle together and they will make frequent collisions with each other and with other things that will be laying around them. This situation will cause a great disaster and you will find your bikes damaged. I am sure you don’t want that to happen.

A good bike rack will offer assurance against this type of occurrence. Various bike carriers keep your bikes in various positions outside your RV and they provide adequate safety and security so that you can make a worry-free trip knowing that your bikes are safe.

Hitch-mount, ladder-mount, and bumper-mount racks keep your bikes relatively far from the trailer and ensure there is enough space between two bikes. That is how bike racks reduce the collision among bikes. But you can enhance the avoidance of collision if you tighten your bikes with straps or hooks so that they don’t sway when the road condition is not ideal.

Our Top Pick(s)

After tremendous hours of research and hard work, we like to entitle the Swagman E-SPEC as our “Overall Best Choice” among all the bike racks.

RV Approved + eBike Compatible Bike Rack | Overall Best Choice

The Swagman E-SPEC will be a fantastic bike rack when you are looking for a bike rack not just for regular bicycles but also for eBikes and fat-tire bikes. This rack offers an outstanding weight-bearing capability where it can load 2 bikes of 70 lbs each, now that is great. You can protect your bikes with locking ratcheting hooks and protect the rack itself with locking hitch-pin. So, you can guess this rack doesn’t compromise even for a bit when it comes to security. Load any bike effortlessly because this rack can hold a tire that is up to 3” wide. This rack is blessed with some impressive features such as foldability, convertibility, versatility, and so on. And we can assure you, these features make this rack superb. A fat-tire tray is available to load fat-tire bikes that need to be bought separately.

• Type: Hitch-Mount (Tray-Style)
• Adaptable Hitch Receiver: 2”
• Rack Weight (lbs): 60
• Dimensions (inch): 39 x 12 x 11
• Bike-Wheel Diameter: 20” – 29”
• Number of Bikes: 2
• Max Load Per Bike: 70 lbs.
• Maximum Weight Limit: 140 lbs.

11 best bike racks you can buy today for travel trailers

All of these 11 bike racks are outstanding in their own aspects. Although we have declared our overall best choice, your personal choice may migrate to another bike rack from our selection as you may be looking for a bike according to your own preferences. So we highly recommend you to read the whole post because we can assure you it will be worth your time. But for the people who are always busy and who can spare very limited time, we have made this comparison chart so that they can have an overall idea about all of the racks quickly.

# Hitch-Mount Bike Rack

1) Swagman E-SPEC rack

• Max Load Per Bike: 70 lbs
• Maximum Weight Limit: 140 lbs
• eBike Compatible: This rach was designed to carry any heavy bike or eBike that weighs up to 70 lbs.
• Locking Ratcheting Hooks: You will have peace in mind knowing that your bikes are safe with locking ratcheting hooks and hitch-pin that are included with the rack.
• Adaptable Wheel Size: Fits any bike with a wheel diameter ranging from 20” to 29” and with a tire width up to 3”.
• Bike Compatibility: Can accommodate any bike of different frame sizes, shapes and styles.
• Foldable: This rack allows you to conveniently access the rear hatch by folding itself.
• Convertible: You can convert this rack either into a folding eBike rack or a non-folding RV eBike rack according to the installation of the bolt.
• Versatile: A versatile rack for heavy-duty usage with a weight-bearing limit of 140 lbs for 2 bikes.
• Easy Assembly: This rack allows a simple installation process that should be completed within a few minutes if you go by the instructions.
• Corrosion-Resistant: A steel rack with durable powder coating that makes it corrosion resistant.
• Available Fat-tire Tray: For loading any 3” to 5” fat-tires, you will get an option to buy an additional fat-tire tray for this rack.
• A limited lifetime warranty will be provided with this rack.
• There are negative reviews that point to the bottom straps of this rack got snapped.
• This rack stays considerably far from the rear of the vehicle that makes parking or backing-out the vehicle a little bit difficult.
• Bike’s handlebars seem to remain very close to the RV.

It is not common to find a rack that can be used on an RV trailer and at the same time can be used as a normal bike rack with everyday functionalities when it comes to using it on a passenger vehicle. That is why “Swagman” has introduced the E-Spec . This bike rack is a tray-style hitch mount bike rack that is approved to use on RVs, 5th Wheels and Travel Trailers. This rack will support 2” x 2” class -3 hitch receivers for these types of vehicles. The ratcheting arms are very soft to protect your bike frame and the straps will keep the wheels of the bikes very steady during the whole time of the adventure.

Swagman E-SPEC

This rack is great for using on any passenger vehicle as well. It will fold up for convenient storage and also for rear hatch or tailgate access. You don’t need to worry about your prized possessions as this rack includes locking hooks and a hitch-pin that offer adequate security. Also, a fat-tire tray is available for loading any fat-tire bikes with 5” wide tires. With a total weight load capacity of 140 lbs, this rack is capable of holding any heavy bike up to 70 lbs each. Check out this video if you want to know about the installation process of this rack –

2) Yakima LongHaul rack

Premium Hitch Bike Rack for RV and Travel-Trailer

• Type: Hitch-Mount (Hanging)
• Rack Weight (lbs): 32
• Dimensions (inch): 28 x 13 x 41
• Number of Bikes: 4
• Max Load Per Bike: 37.5 lbs
• Maximum Weight Limit: 150 lbs
• RV Approved: This rack was tested and permitted to use on RVs.
• ZipStrip™ cradles: Loading and unloading the bikes will become a breeze with the help of SuperCush ZipStrip™ cradles.
• Anti-Sway Design: The cradles are designed in an anti-sway style for keeping your bike in place and reducing bike-to-bike contact.
• Full SKS Security Package: This rack includes a full SKS Locking package where you lock the last to the RV with a hitch lock and lock the bikes to the rack with LockDown™ cables.
• Foldable Arms: Allows convenient parking and storage by folding the arms down when you are not using it.
• Stable Transportation: This rack Stabilizes your bikes with 2 integrated safety straps that come with buckles.
• Build Quality: Made of sturdy steel furnished with a silver powder coat that makes it chip-resistant.
• Yakima Bottle-Cap Opener: Take a break during your journey and enjoy a soft drink anytime by opening the cap with the help of Yakima’s signature bottle-cap opener.
• Bring-Your-Own-Lock Point: You can reinforce the overall security by adding extra locks with this threading point.
• Offered with a limited lifetime warranty from Yakima.
• This rack may not accommodate all shapes and sizes of bike frames.
• Bikes remain very congested that can make 2 bikes collide with each other.
• You cannot wish to mount a spare-tire at the back of your RV while this rack is being installed.

When the demand for using an RV and travel trailer grew rigorously, then Yakima thought of making a bike rack that can work both on regular type vehicles and on RVs, Travel-Trailers and 5th Wheel Campers. Thus the Yakima LongHaul was produced. The name suggests that it can stand up for tours that consist of long miles. As a result, it was built, designed and tested through and through. This rack is estimated to take 5 minutes to be installed and some assembly is required.

The LongHaul vows to transport 4 bikes with ease and care where each bike can weigh 37.5 lbs. So, the total weight limit for this rack is close to 150 lbs. This rack is very exceptional when it comes to security. This rack includes a full Same Key System (SKS) security package where you can lock your bikes as well as lock the rack to the vehicle. Also, features “Bring-Your-Own-Lock” threading point that lets you add an extra lock for additional security.

Yakima LongHaul

3) Swagman Dispatch rack

RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack

• Rack Weight (lbs): 44
• Dimensions (inch): 37 x 14.5 x 9.5
• Max Load Per Bike: 45 lbs
• Maximum Weight Limit: 90 lbs
• Ground Clearance: This rack is designed to provide excellent ground clearance.
• Bike Compatibility: Most sizes, shapes, and styles of bike frames can be fitted on this rack.
• Locking Mechanism: Locking mechanism includes locking hitch pin and cable to protect your bike and the rack from theft.
• Bike Frame Protection: Padded hooks protect the bike’s frame from abrasions and scratches.
• Sliding Wheel-Tray: To adjust bikes of different lengths, you slide the tray for the perfect position.
• Folding Option: For better access to the rear hatch or tailgate, you can fold the vertical mast and make the rack into a compact unit.
• Ratcheting Hooks: These hooks hold the top tubes of your bikes firmly.
• Adjustable Hooks: To accommodate different bike sizes, you can independently move the hooks with push buttons.
• Available Fat-tire Tray: You can buy a fat-tire tray separately for this rack if you wish to load a fat-tire bike.
• Rated to be used on RVs, Travel-Trailers, and Motor-homes.
• As the rack remains relatively far behind the back of the RV, parking and back-driving can be a little bit challenging.
• It would be better if the ratcheting hold-down parts were metal instead of plastic.
• The instruction in the manual is not very co-operative.
• Difficult to store the bikes.

Thinking about the people who are suffering from ground clearance, “Swagman” introduced the Dispatch . This rack sits 17” far from the hitch pin hole for sufficient ground clearance. “Swagman” send their products through rigorous testing to know if the products are capable enough to handle the extra pressure while they are towed behind the back of an RV. And the Dispatch has also gone through these types of testing programs to prove it is reliable enough to transport your bikes safely to their destinations.

This rack is capable of carrying 2 bikes with a total weight bearing limit of 90 lbs where each bike shouldn’t weigh more than 45 lbs. This rack can adapt fat-tire bikes where the tires are as wide as 5” if you combine it with the additional fat-tire tray . This rack provides adequate security for both your bike and rack by deterring the thieves.

Swagman Dispatch

# Bumper Mount Bike Rack

4) Swagman RV Approved 2-Bike Bumper Rack

Excellent Bumper-Mount Rack for 2 Bikes

• Type: Bumper-Mount
• Adaptable Bumper Size: 4 – 4.5” Square
• Rack Weight (lbs): 21
• Dimensions (inch): 26.5 x 21 x 2.5
• Max Load Per Bike: 30 lbs
• Maximum Weight Limit: 60 lbs
• Special Design: This rack was designed in such a way that it can endure the pressure for being used on an RV, 5th Wheel Camper or Trailer.
• Installation Bolt: You need to install this rack around the square shape RV bumper with 6.5” and 8” long installation bolts.
• Additional Support: While you are towing with your bikes, the upright bar in the center of this rack provides additional support.
• Bike Compatibility: The tire rails of this rack support most regular shapes and sizes of bikes.
• U-Bolt: With these steel bolts, this rack secures itself with the bumper of your RV.
• Simple to Use: Pretty simple to load and unload the bikes.
• Build Quality: Made of Steel and the powder coating makes it corrosion-resistant.
• When you purchase this rack, you will get a limited lifetime warranty.
• Both of the bikes need to be in the same shape in order to load onto this rack.
• Bikes may lean toward the RV and hit the rear glass that shows its lack of adjustability.
• The inside slot will only load a bike with 2” wide tires.
• This rack was not designed to be used on a C class or a larger RV bumper.
• Poor design and might get rusty within a few months.

The Swagman RV Bumper Rack 2 provides an economic way to transport 2 bikes efficiently. The rack was designated as an RV approved rack by “Swagman”. They give this title to those racks which were engineered to be strong enough to withstand the extensive stress while they are being mounted on the back of an RV, 5th Wheel, or a Trailer. This rack can accommodate most common bike shapes and frames except for those where the tire is wider than 2”. So, some of the MTBs, eBikes as well as most fat-tire bikes won’t adjust onto this rack.

This rack keeps the first bike 6.25” far from the bumper and there is almost 34” distance between the bumper and the end of the rack. Any spot-welded bumpers or bumpers that are made of aluminum and wider than 4.5” will not suit with this rack. With a decent weight load capacity of 60 lbs, this rack can hold 2 bikes of 30” each.

Swagman 2-Bike Bumper Rack

5) Swagman RV Approved 4-Bike Bumper Rack

Heavy-Duty Bumper-Mount Rack for 4 Bikes

• Rack Weight (lbs): 41
• Dimensions (inch): 43 x 45 x 2.5
• Maximum Weight Limit: 120 lbs
• Special Design: To withstand the extra load of pressure for being at the back of an RV, Travel trailer, or 5th Wheel camper; this rack was designed in a special way.
• Installation Bolt: 6.5” and 8” long bolts need to be used for installing this rack.
• Additional Support: While towing, your bikes will get additional support from the upright bar in the middle of this rack.
• Bike Compatibility: Most bikes with regular frames and sizes will accommodate this rack.
• U-Bolt: This rack gets itself secured to the bumper with some steel U-shape bolts.
• Simple to Use: This rack is fairly easy to attach and use.
• Build Quality: Constructed with steel and coated with powder in order to resist corrosion.
• This product will be warranted for a lifetime at the time of purchase.
• Sometimes, the mounting holes are not in the correct alignment.
• Each of the 4 bikes needs to be in the same shape if you wish to mount them.
• The quality of the hardware is very poor and it is hard to tighten them permanently.
• Provides the minimum safety for both your bike and RV when you load all 4 bikes on the rack.

The Swagman RV Bumper Rack 4 is basically the upgraded version of the Swagman RV Bumper Rack 2 where you will be able to load 4 bikes effortlessly instead of 2. Although it is updated, most of the features are pretty much the same. For example – this rack is designed as an RV approved product, this rack has the same build quality and other features are also the same. The main difference between this rack and the Swagman RV Bumper Rack 2 is the number of bikes that can be loaded. It can load 4 bikes where the Swagman RV Bumper Rack 2 can load only 2.

Like the Swagman RV Bumper Rack 2, this rack keeps the first bike 6.25” far from the bumper. This rack will not fit any spot-welded bumper or any bumper that is made of aluminum with more than 4.5” wide. This rack has a maximum weight capacity of 120 lbs for 4 bikes where each bike should weigh approximately 30 lbs.

Swagman 4-Bike Bumper Rack

# Bumper-Mount Spare Tire On Bike Rack

6) Swagman Around the Spare Deluxe Bike Rack

Bumper-Mount Rack That Supports a Spare-Tire

• Type: Bumper-Mount (Spare-Tire On)
• Rack Weight (lbs): 22
• Dimensions (inch): 34 x 12 x 26
• Max Load Per Bike: 35 lbs
• Maximum Weight Limit: 70 lbs
• Spare-tire Compatibility: This rack can be mounted around most of the spare-tires.
• Spare-tire Access: You can remove the top half of the rack with some release-pins for quick access of the spare-tire.
• Adaptable Bike-Frame: This rack can adapt any bike-frame where the diameter is up to 1.5”.
• Anti-Sway Cradles: The anti-sway cradles reduce bike-to-bike contact and its durable rubber straps won’t let any scratches on the bike’s finish.
• U-Bolt: You need to mount this rack to the bumper of your RV with U-bolts and brackets.
• Secure Bike’s Top Tube: This rack secures your bike’s top tube with 2 Nylon straps from excessive shocks and jolts.
• Build Quality: Constructed with sturdy steel and it is corrosion-resistant for the black powder coat finish.
• All mounting hardware for attaching the rack to the bumper is included in the package.
• This product is warranted for a limited lifetime.
• May not adjust the spare-tire of current model RVs.
• Will not accommodate some mountain bikes such as some GIANT brand bikes with 28” tires.
• This rack is not very suitable for accommodating women’s bikes.
• Some people complained that this rack had ripped off their bumpers.

If your RV, 5th Wheeler, or Travel-trailer contains a spare-tire at the back and at the same time you wish to load your bike in a convenient way as there is no space inside, then the Swagman Around the Spare Deluxe bike rack will be a perfect choice for you. This RV approved rack lets you carry 2 bikes even when the spare-tire is mounted at the back. With a weight load capacity of 70 lbs, you can load 2 bikes where each bike must weigh 35 lbs at the max.

This bike rack includes anti-sway cradles that hold your bikes still. This rack can be installed onto 4”-4.5” continuously welded square-shape RV bumpers. If you are uncertain whether this rack will match your RV or not, then you should consult the manufacturer or local RV dealer. This rack provides 12.75” spare-tire clearance and the maximum diameter of your bike frame should be 1.5” in order to be mounted on this rack.

Swagman Deluxe Bike Rack

# Ladder Mount Bike Rack

7) Swagman Ladder Rack

Decent Ladder-Mount Bike Rack for Your Trailer

• Type: Ladder Mount
• Rack Weight (lbs): 6.5
• Dimensions (inch): 26.5 x 18 x 2
• RV Approved: This RV approved rack mounts quickly and effortlessly to your ladder with hooks.
• Soft Cradles: These cradles hold your bikes gently and make sure they don’t fall off.
• Rubber Strap: 2 rubber straps are included for securing your bikes to the rack and the rack to the ladder.
• Dual Arm Design: The design of this rack promotes dual arms that provide excellent support for holding the bikes.
• Corrosion and Rust Resistant: This rack is made of lightweight aluminum for resisting rust and corrosion.
• Versatility: This rack is versatile enough to fit any ladder rung shape of most RVs and motorhomes.
• Foam Pad: 2 foam pads are attached to both arms so that it doesn’t damage or scratch the ladder.
• Safety Reflectors: Both arms have integrated reflectors at the ends that ensure safety at night.
• Like all the Swagman bike racks, you will get a limited lifetime warranty with this rack.
• People have misleading comments about this rack, which hints at its inherent breakdown.
• You have to do a lot of rigging in order to secure your bikes as you expect.
• This rack stays pretty high to reach. So loading and unloading your bikes might be difficult.

The Swagman Ladder Rack is designed to adjust any RV, motorhome, or trailer’s ladder. This rack needs to be installed on the ladder. Therefore, you will get the access to use your trailer hitch and mount a spare-tire at the back if you wish. However, make sure your RV has a ladder or at least supports installing a ladder. This rack has become an RV approved rack by “Swagman” that indicates its versatility to withstand the exerted abuses.

This rack provides safety for transporting 2 bikes with soft cradles and rubber straps. With a weight-bearing capacity of 70 lbs, you can load a bike with 35 lbs of weight. It is very light for its aluminum construction that helps you to lift it up while you install it on the ladder. Its dual arm design offers great stability and the rear reflectors at each end of the arms ensure safety traveling at night.

Swagman Ladder Rack

8) Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack

Another Great Ladder-Mount Bike Rack for Your Trailer

• Rack Weight (lbs): 8.2
• Dimensions (inch): 23 x 11 x 3.7
• Fit Cradles: This rack features some fit cradles that will hold your bikes tight on any type of road.
• Outdoor Gear Support: This rack can not only carry bikes but also can carry different types of outdoor chairs.
• Folding Option: This rack makes convenient storage options by folding into a compact shape.
• Stability: This rack keeps your bikes stable with 2 adjustable straps.
• Easy Installation: Simple installation, simply just mount the rack on your RV ladder.
• Quick Removal: To access the RV ladder, you can remove this rack within a few minutes.
• Build Quality: Rack’s tubes made of strong steel material.
• Colour: This rack offers 2 different colours to choose from.
• A limited 90-days warranty will be offered with this rack.
• The overall build quality of this rack seems very cheap.
• Screws cannot hold the bottom rail properly as the hinge arrangement is not properly aligned, it has large gaps.
• This hanger type rack may bend and can possibly cause an accident.

The Camco RV Ladder Mount Rack will install onto any RV ladders. This rack can be a budget-friendly option if you are looking for something similar and you only have a few dollars to spend. 2 bikes will sit perfectly on this rack with sufficient space clearance to avoid collision between each other. This rack will stay in place on the ladder locking pins and will not scratch the ladder or cause any damage for its soft-grip handles.

Camco Ladder Mount Bike Rack

This rack comes with a folding feature so that you can convert it into a compact shape by folding it. This will access a convenient storage option. This rack can hold up to 2 bikes with a combined weight rating of 60 lbs at maximum. With this decent weight load capacity, you can load a bike that can weigh up to 30 lbs. This video will help you by providing a guideline for installing this rack –

# Towing-Ball Mount Bike Rack

9) Swagman Traveler XCS2 rack

A Fantastic Towing Bike Rack

• Type: Towing-Ball Mount (Platform-Style)
• Adaptable Towing Receiver: 2”
• Rack Weight (lbs): 36.1
• Dimensions (inch): 40 x 12 x 24
• Above the ground Storage: When you place your bikes onto this rack, they remain 17” high above the ground.
• Push-Button Ratchet Arm: Adjustable ratchet arm with push-button that promotes quick loading and unloading of your bikes.
• Locking Mechanism: A locking hitch-pin will be provided to secure the rack to the vehicle and a 100 mm security cable can be bought for your bike’s security.
• Adaptable Wheelbase: Wheel-hoops can be adjusted to accommodate most wheelbases of traditional bikes.
• Sliding Bracket: With a hand-tight knob, you can adjust this bracket by sliding it over the ball mount.
• Rear Hatch or Cargo Access: This rack will fold down easily to provide you convenient rear hatch or cargo access.
• Padded Hooks: These padded hooks ensure there are no scratches on the bike’s frame.
• Rust and Corrosion Resistant: Furnished with black powder coat to resist rust or corrosion.
• This rack is covered under a limited lifetime warranty by Swagman.
• An extra-long ball-mount might be required to mount this rack.
• The .75” set of screws can break the weld while inserting them.
• This rack is a bit heavy. As a result, the overall weight that needs to be carried increases a lot.
• While your bikes are mounted on this rack, you may face difficulties gaining rearview access.

For the towing-ball mount bike rack selection, we have chosen the Swagman Traveler XCS2 . You want to carry your bike and at the same time you want to tow a car or trailer, this rack provides the ultimate support. This rack is a fantastic bike rack with some premium features that can handle the extra pressure for being mounted on the towing ball and ensure your bikes go to their corresponding destinations.

This rack allows you to carry 2 bikes of different shapes simultaneously. This rack offers a weight-bearing capability of 70 lbs for the combination of 2 bikes where each bike weighs about 35 lbs. Bikes with different sizes of wheelbases up to 52” and tires up to 3.5” wide can be accommodated with this carrier. The length of its shank sleeve is 3”. If you want to add extra security for your bikes, then a package of anti-wobble hitch-pin and locking cable is available ( Item 64030 ) that needs to be bought separately.

Swagman Traveler XCS2

# Tongue Mount Bike Rack

10) Let’s Go Aero Jack-It (429756) rack

Provides Fine Jack Clearance

• Type: Tongue Mount (Over the A-frame)
• Rack Weight (lbs): 25 lbs
• Dimensions (inch): 30 x 20 x 8
• Max Load Per Bike: 40 lbs
• Maximum Weight Limit: 80 lbs
• V-Shape Design: This rack has a tall V-shape design that enhances stability and balance.
• Hitch or Cargo Space: This rack lets you utilize the necessity of the cargo space and access new hitch or cargo utilization space.
• SwayControl™ System: This system provides protection of your bike’s frame by enhancing natural stability.
• Adjustable Cradles: These wheel cradles hold your bikes by their wheels with soft rubber straps.
• SwayStop™ Straps: These straps hold the bikes by their wheels and keep the bike’s paint protected while transporting them.
• PowerTower Frame Protection: The tongue jack remains protected from impacts with this type of protection.
• Build Quality: Made of durable steel and furnished with black powder coating that helps it to resist rust.
• This rack is backed by a 1-year limited lifetime warranty.
• Some say the package doesn’t include what it shows in the picture. For example – In the picture, there are 2 lace loops holding the bike’s pedals; but they don’t actually come with the package.
• Check your RV’s compatibility for this rack, as this rack won’t work with RVs that have manual cranks.
• Loading and unloading of your bikes can be challenging as this rack keeps them relatively high above the ground.
• The installation instructions are a bit of a joke.

If you wish to see your bikes by looking at the rear-view mirror while traveling in your trailer or 5th wheeler, this Jack-It from Let’s Go Aero will be an excellent option that can make it happen. Its patented frame design installs over the A-frames of most trailers and it is a V-shape vertical-stand rack that keeps your bike horizontal relatively high from the ground. This rack comes with a package that includes the following parts –

4 – Wheel Cradles 4 – Lockable Pins 3 – 1.5” x .75” Mounting Bolts

Also, this rack can be suited with most electric tongue jacks as it offers 22.5” of base clearance. With an outstanding weight load capacity of 80 lbs, you can load 2 bikes of 40 lbs each. Be noted, there are 2 versions of this rack – one is for 18” jack and another one is for 22” jack. So first, measure the height of your jack for purchasing the right one.

Jack-It Bike Rack

# Tongue Mount Bike Bunk

11) Stromberg Carlson CC-275 Bike Bunk

Offers Stability of Your Rack to Carry 2 Bikes

• Weight (lbs): 15
• Adaptable Hitch Size for the Adjusted Rack: 2”
• Dimensions (inch): 8 x 4.75 x 2
• Max Load Per Bike: 50 lbs (Approximately)
• Maximum Weight Limit: 100 lbs
• Use it with your bike rack: Use this bunk on a bike rack that supports a 2” x 2” hitch receiver and also that is approved to be used with this bunk.
• Raised Receiver: This bunk creates a raised platform on the A-frame and makes a perfect place for your bikes to be put on.
• Allows Post Brackets: Its vertical tubes have a curved design that allows any post bracket to be mounted on the A-frame where the width should vary from 14” to 55”.
• Build Quality: The whole bunk is made of strong and durable steel.
• Quick Installation: The setup of this bunk is very quick and easy.
• The bolts that are included in the package may need to be replaced with 3” bolts.
• It might be very frustrating to assemble this bunk and the instructions are terrible.
• Instead of keeping the bikes higher, this bunk keeps the bikes relatively low.

The Stromberg Carlson CC-275 is the first cargo-carrying system that attaches to any type of bike rack over the A-frame. This bunk is designed for any bike rack that fits 2” hitch receivers and that is RV approved. This bunk can be mounted on any A-frame that has a width range from 12” to 52”. However, turning-radius and the racks position will determine if this application will suit your bike rack or not.

This rack allows you to transport your bikes while you are towing a trailer. This bunk provides an excellent weight load capacity to the rack which is almost 100 lbs and this bunk enables the rack to carry 2 bikes. Therefore, 2 bikes can be carried on this bunk where each bike weighs 40 lbs.

Stromberg Carlson CC-275

How to Properly Install a Bike Rack on a Travel Trailer

The installation process of any RV or trailer bike rack depends on the model you end up buying. As we have discussed earlier in this article about the three different types of trailer bike racks, each of them has different installation methods as they mount on different positions of your trailer or RV.

Thankfully no matter what type of rack you buy, you will get an installation manual that will lead you to assemble and install the rack step-by-step. Each of the three different variants of trailer bike racks is very easy to install. However, we will demonstrate the procedure for installing a bumper-mount bike rack on your trailer or RV –

• First, you need to be sure your bumper is suitable enough to adapt to a bumper-mount bike carrier. It cannot be welded with any spot or it cannot be made of Aluminum. It must have a square shape with a width ranging from 4” to 4.5”.
• When you buy a bumper-mount bike rack, you will get an adapter that needs to be screwed into the bumper of your RV. If you find there is no such adapter when you open the package, then you need to purchase it separately. This adapter rests on both the top and bottom of the bumper.
• Once you have successfully completed step-1 and step-2, now it’s time to screw the bolts and nuts. Double-check if you really tight the bracket over the bumper of your trailer otherwise, it can lead you to some serious complications.
• Now slide the rest of the carrier into the place and fasten it with a bolt.

Does that sound too difficult? Honestly, I don’t think so. The installation process for a hitch-mount and ladder-mount is also pretty easy. All of them come with installation manuals that are filled with useful guidelines and detailed images.

The most simple and effortless installation process is offered with ladder-mount bike racks. You really don’t have to do much in order to install this type of rack. Just put it on the ladder at the back of your RV and tight it with some screws, that’s it. Hitch-mount rack might not have the most simple assembly, but I am sure you will figure it out with the help of its installation manual. Again, there are a lot of useful videos you can find on the internet that can help you if you face any difficulties installing any of these bike racks.

Once you have finally attained the knowledge about the usefulness of different types of bike racks by reading this article, it will be a breeze to choose the right trailer bike rack for you. You just need to apply the learning properly while you give a search for buying a trailer bike rack for yourself. And who knows you might end up buying one of these 11 bike racks from our list. Because the racks that we have selected are all quality products and they will be beneficial for different users with different sets of requirements.

No matter what is the design of the carrier or the type of carrier, just make sure it meets all the requirements that you have desired. If you can finally select a bike rack that is close to perfect, your entire trip with your RV or trailer will become much easier and relaxed.

You don’t have to load your bikes in your trailer anymore. Your RV or trailer will be left with enough room to store any stuff you may pick up during the trips. We wish you the best of luck for finding a suitable bike rack for your trailer and as always we thank you for reading this article. We hope this article has benefited you a lot.

• 10 Best Bike Racks for Honda Civic (Updated 2023)
• 10 Best Bike Racks for Truck Tailgate (Updated 2023)
• 10 Best Ceiling Bike Racks for Garage (Updated 2023)
• 7 Best Free Standing Bike Racks for 2 & 4 Bikes…

My name is Dion Lewis.I’ve been cycling since my childhood. When I was in high school, I started racing in our local competitions.In my college life, I took a part-time job in a bicycle shop and I learned how to repair and maintain bicycles professionally.Though I love racing, mountain biking is another thing I do frequently. My friends, neighbors, and colleagues treat me as an avid rider and take my suggestions while they plan for a new bike or bike gear.

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The Savvy Campers

How To Carry Bikes On A Travel Trailer (With 10 Solutions)

Many people buy travel trailers because they are the outdoorsy type. Lots of outdoorsy types also like to ride bikes. A travel trailer doesn’t give you the best spot from the factory to carry your bikes. Having a bike on a camping trip can give your kids something to do, or provide you with transportation around the campground or city you are in. We put together this guide to help you decide which method you can use to carry your bikes safely and securely.

How to carry bikes on a travel trailer?

There are several options to carry bikes on a travel trailer including, a hitch carrier, ladder carrier, tongue carrier, bumper carrier, inside the travel trailer, inside the tow vehicle, in the bed, on the bed, on a front hitch, as well as on a roof rack on the tow vehicle.

10 Easy Ways to Carry Bikes on a Travel Trailer Trip

The options to carry bikes on your travel trailer vary greatly depending on the type of trailer, if there is any optional accessories to allow you to carry bikes, how many bikes you are planning on carrying, as well as the type of tow vehicle. If you are towing with a pickup truck, you will have the most options, if you have a SUV, you will have a few less, but still some good options.

Travel Trailer Hitch Mounted Carrier

If your travel trailer is equipped with a factory towing hitch or have one installed to the frame, which several brands are, you can buy a normal hitch carrier as you would for a truck or SUV. This will either be for a 2” receiver or 1 ¼” based on what your tow vehicle or travel trailer have. We have used a few different styles, but if you have a 2” receiver, it is not fun to use the adapter to upsize a 1 ¼” as it will wobble quite a bit. If you have to upsize your hitch, they make kits to prevent the wobble if your unit has too much play. Our favorite bike hitch carrier is made to tilt down if you need to access something, is fold away, and is locking.

We have seen many travel trailers have add on hitches that bolt on to the back of the stock bumper on the travel trailer. These are not a good idea to use, as the bumper on your travel trailer is not meant to hold any weight. Also, the weight of bikes cantilevered over the back bouncing up and down can break away the rear bumper as they are not designed to hold that much downward pressure. If you do decide to do this, make sure to strap the bikes to your travel trailer to relieve the downward pressure that this will create.

Ladder Mounted Bike Carrier

If your travel trailer has a built in ladder, an option to bring your bikes along is to purchase a ladder bike rack. These go over the rungs of your ladder and strap at the bottom. Typically these carry two bikes at a time. This is a great option as your ladder provides a secure mounting point for your bike rack and the bikes are held very close to the ladder as to not create downward pressure as a bolt on hitch mount would create. This unit folds away for storage when not in use.

Tongue Mounted Bike Rack

The tongue of your travel trailer is a good option to mount a bike carrier as you can keep an eye on your bikes when you are traveling. These mounts bolt to your A frame on your tongue and mount the bikes right above the propane tanks. With this, you are able to securely lock your bikes to the trailer’s frame so they do not get stolen. Another benefit of this style since you can watch your bikes, if they are in trouble or coming off of their mount, you can notice and re strap them down. There are a few brands that make these mounts, but our favorite holds two bikes and up to 80 pounds.

Travel Trailer Bumper Bike Rack

A RV specific bumper mounted bike rack will mount onto your stock bumper and will give you spots to mount your bikes onto. These do not cause huge downward pressure as a hitch mount would and are a bit safer than the bolt on hitch mounts. These are available to carry two bikes or four bikes at one time.

Trailer Ball Mount Bike Rack

A ball mount hitch is a hitch which is mounted on the shank of your trailer ball mount. You will need to check the clearance to determine if your hitch ball mount provides enough space to mount one of these, but in some cases with larger weight distribution hitches, they may provide adequate space for mounting. We like this nice two bike configuration . These are a secure way to carry a bike as you can see it going down the road so there are no problems with them coming loose and you missing your bike when you arrive. These also provide easy access to lock them up.

A hitch ball mount may get in the way of opening your tailgate until everything is unloaded, so make sure to check how it mounts and if it is tilting before you decide to go this route.

Tow Vehicle Roof Rack Mount

When you are traveling with your travel trailer, typically the roof of your tow vehicle is empty. The roof of your vehicle is great for carrying your bikes as this is a good mainstream way of doing so. There are many roof mount bike carriers to choose from, but our preference is one that is backed by a good reputable brand . Your vehicle will need roof cross bars to mount these racks to. If you have them already, you are one step ahead of the game. Mounting your bikes or removing them may be a job as if you are doing this on a pickup, you may need to do this from the bed, or get a step stool. We have also seen some travel trailers with roof racks installed to carry bikes on top of them. This may put you in a height situation with bridges, so we would only recommend mounting on your travel trailer if you have a popup camper .

Front Hitch Mount Carrier

Vehicles are capable of having a front hitch installed as well as the rear hitch. There is an option to mount a hitch rack on the front of your vehicle and use a hitch mount carrier as the one we recommend . This is a very secure and safe way to tow your bikes, but if it impedes on your visuals of the road, you may want to look in a different direction. This will depend on how high your hitch sits up and the height of your hood. A front hitch if installed, can also provide you with a space to store a bumper luggage carrier, or even be a tow point if you get stuck. Here is an example of a front hitch mount for a 2009-2015 Ford F150 .

Inside The Travel Trailer

One obvious and free way to carry your bikes to a campground is to just store them in your travel trailer. Some travel trailers even have a “bike door” in their bunk bed sections for this specific purpose. This would require you to move them in and strap them down and you are set. A downside of storing your bikes inside while traveling, is that if you need to get in and make lunch or use the restroom, you may have to maneuver around your bikes to do so. Also this does not provide you with easy storage when you are at your campsite as you will be inside your travel trailer.

Truck Bed Mount

The truck of your bed, if you are towing with a truck, is a great place to stow your bikes when traveling. They have specific truck bed carriers that can be installed which provide a sturdy mount and keep your bikes safe behind the cab of your truck. This will take up the bed of your truck and if you have a tonneau cover or hard cover, will make your truck bed unusable besides your bikes.

Truck Bed Mounted Carrier

Another way to get around using your truck bed, but not carrying your bikes on the top of your cab is to mount rack bars above your truck bed and mount a roof carrier . This will provide the best of both worlds by allowing you to use your truck bed if you have a cover, as well as mount your bikes lower to the ground.

Conclusion:

At the end of the day, it is up to you to figure out which carrier will be best for your use. We prefer the frame mounted carriers which mount by your tongue jack as well as the truck bed mounted carrier route for our use. All of these options will bring your bikes to your campground safely and provide a good sturdy secure traveling spot for your bikes.

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Home » Product Reviews » 5 Best Bike Racks For Travel Trailers (2022 Review)

5 Best Bike Racks For Travel Trailers (2022 Review)

• Last Updated: Jun 14, 2024

Do you like to go on biking trips with your family? If so, you must ensure that you have the right equipment! A bike rack for a travel trailer is essential gear for any avid biker. In this blog post, we will discuss the best bike rack for travel trailer.

Best Bike Rack For Travel Trailer

Thule Range Hitch Bike Rack

Thule Range Hitch Bike Rack is a bicycle rack designed to be attached to the back of a car. It is one of the best bike rack for travel trailer . It consists of two parts: a hitch that mounts onto the car and a platform on which the bikes are mounted.

The platform can be adjusted to different heights to accommodate different types of bikes. The rack also has a built-in locking system to secure the bikes.

It is a convenient way to transport bicycles and is particularly well-suited for long trips or carrying multiple bikes at once. It has a sturdy frame that is made of aluminum and has a powder-coated finish.

The rack also has two arms that swing down to secure the bikes. The arms have a rubber grip that prevents the bikes from sliding around. The rack also has a weather-resistant cover that protects the bikes from the elements.

The cover has a reflective strip that helps to keep your bikes visible at night. The Thule Range hitch bike rack is a great way to transport your bikes safely and securely.

WHAT WE LIKE:

• Easy to install and use.
• Versatile bike rack that can accommodate different types of bikes.
• Well-made and durable.
• Excellent value for the price.

WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:

• It is not the cheapest option on the market.

Swagman Bicycle Carriers RV Bike Rack

Swagman is a name synonymous with quality bicycle racks, and this Swagman Bicycle Carriers RV Bike Rack is no exception. This rack is designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, including RVs, and can carry up to two bikes simultaneously.

It features durable steel construction and a powder-coat finish to resist corrosion. The tray-style design makes loading and unloading your bikes quick and easy, and the included anti-wobble system keeps everything secure during transport.

Whether you’re taking your bikes on a camping trip or just need a reliable way to get them from point A to point B, this RV bike rack is an excellent choice. This is why it is known as one of the best RV bike racks.

• It is easy to assemble and install, and it is very sturdy and well-made.
• This bike rack can accommodate two bikes and has a comprehensive platform that makes loading and unloading your bikes a breeze.
• It is also RV-approved, so you can feel confident it will work great with your travel trailer.
• It is a bit pricey. However, considering its quality and features, we think it is worth the price.
• It does not come with a lock, so you must purchase one separately if you want to secure your bikes.

Quick Products QPRBM2R RV 2-Bike Rack

The Quick Products QPRBM2R RV 2-Bike Rack is a great way to transport your bikes on your next RV trip. This rack mounts onto the bumper of your RV, and it can hold two bikes securely in place.

The rack is made of heavy-duty steel construction, so you can be confident that your bikes will be safe on the road. The straps have padded hooks to protect your bikes from scratches.

The rack also has a built-in reflector for safety. It is easy to install and use and comes with all the hardware you need for a quick and easy installation.

• The capacity to carry two bikes is great for couples or small families.
• It’s very easy to install and remove, so you can take it on and off your RV as needed.
• This bike rack is also very affordable, making it an excellent option for budget-minded travelers.
• Some reviewers have noted that the bikes can wobble a bit when mounted on this rack, so it’s important to ensure they are secure before hitting the road.
• If you have a larger RV, you may need to purchase an additional bike rack to accommodate all of your bikes.

Super Duty Double Rack

1UP USA’s Super Duty Double Rack is one of the best bike rack for travel trailer . It is a heavy-duty double bike rack that is designed for use with full-size trucks . The rack is made from powder-coated steel for durability and features two arms extending out from the truck’s bed.

Each arm has two slots that can accommodate up to two bikes or four. The rack also includes ratcheting straps for securing the bikes, and they can be easily removed when not in use.

It is designed for use with SUVs, minivans, and crossover vehicles. The arms are padded to protect your bike’s finish and adjustable so that you can customize the fit to your vehicle.

The rack also includes a security strap to keep your bikes secure and fold down when not in use. This is an excellent option for those who need a durable and easy-to-use bike rack for their full-size truck.

• Can carry four bikes.
• It fits most travel trailers.
• It is relatively expensive compared to other bike racks on the market. If you’re on a budget, this might not be your best option.
• It is heavy and bulky, making it difficult to maneuver and transport. You need to consider other options if you’re looking for a lighter, more compact bike rack.

Futura RV Bike Rack

The Futura RV Bike Rack is a great product that allows you to easily transport your bikes on your RV trip. The rack mounts onto the tongue of your RV and has a 2-inch receiver, so it is compatible with most RV hitches. The rack can accommodate up to four bikes and includes all the necessary hardware for installation.

The rack’s arms are adjustable so that you can customize the fit to your bike. The rack also features a built-in anti-rattle device, so you don’t have to worry about your bikes bouncing around while driving. This is great for easily transporting their bikes on their next RV trip.

• Easy to install and remove, and no tools are required.
• Comes with an anti-rattle device to keep your bikes secure and prevent noise while you’re driving.
• It can accommodate up to four bikes (80 lbs total weight capacity).
• Made of powder-coated steel for durability.
• It has a limited lifetime warranty.
• It is not compatible with RVs that have a rear ladder.
• The bikes must be removed from the rack to access the RV’s rear.

Is It Okay To Bring My Bikes While Camping?

Bikes can enhance your camping trip in many ways. They can provide transportation to get you around the campground without having to walk everywhere, or they can be used for recreation, such as bicycling or going on nature trails.

Bikes can also carry gear, such as camping equipment or groceries. However, bikes can also be a nuisance if they are not operated properly or are not adequately maintained. It is essential to check with the campground beforehand to see if bikes are allowed and the rules regarding their use.

If bikes are allowed, obey all campground rules and regulations regarding their use. Bikes not properly maintained can also create problems, such as flat tires or broken parts. Be sure to inspect your bike before bringing it on a camping trip, and bring along any tools or supplies you might need to make repairs.

Bikes are also great for getting from one campsite to another if you plan multi-day camping. So, if you’re wondering whether or not you should bring your bike along on your next camping trip, the answer is a resounding yes! Pack everything else you need, including a helmet and plenty of water.

Things To Consider In Choosing RV Bike Rack

Ease of Use

A rugged bike rack is the last thing you want to deal with when camping in your RV. That’s why it’s essential to look for one that is easy to use so that you can get your bikes on and off the rack with minimal effort.

There are a few things to remember when looking for an easy-to-use bike rack. First, ensure the rack can be easily attached to your RV. You don’t want to fumble around with straps or bolts when trying to load up your bikes.

Look for a rack that has a simple design. The fewer parts there are, the easier it will be to use. Make sure that the rack can accommodate different types of bikes. This way, you won’t have to worry about whether or not your bikes will fit.

RV Approved

It is important to make sure that the rack is RV-approved. This means that it has been tested and approved for use with RVs and meets all necessary safety standards.

There are specific racks designed for RVs, and they will have been tested to ensure that they can safely and securely hold a bike in place.

Affordability

There are many bike racks on the market, and the price can vary significantly from one model to the next. While finding a rack within your budget is important, you also want to ensure that it is of good quality and will last for many years.

Mounted racks are more affordable than other types, making them a good choice for those on a tight budget. In addition, mounted racks are typically very easy to install, saving you time and money in the long run.

High-Quality Materials

You’ll want to make sure that it’s made with high-quality materials. After all, it will be exposed to the elements and will need to be able to withstand weathering and wear and tear.

It Should Accommodate The Bikes You Need To Carry

The bike rack should accommodate the number of bikes you need to carry and the type of bikes. If you have mountain bikes, you will need a rack that can accommodate their larger size and weight.

You should also ensure that the rack is compatible with your RV’s hitch system. In addition, some racks come with features that make them easier to use, such as anti-sway cradles that help to keep the bikes stable while you are driving.

Should Be Comparable To The Weight Of Your Bike

The bike rack should be comparable to the weight of your bike. If the bike rack is too light, it will not be able to support the weight of your bike.

If the bike rack is too heavy, it will be difficult to maneuver and damage your RV. So you should look for a model that fits your bike’s weight.

You should also consider the size of your RV when you are choosing a bike rack. A larger RV will need a bigger bike rack to accommodate the size of the RV. A smaller RV will need a smaller bike rack.

What Is A RV Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack?

An RV hitch-mounted bike rack is a device attached to an RV’s hitch receiver. It holds bikes in place while the RV is in motion. There are many styles of hitch-mounted RV bike racks, but they all serve the same basic purpose. Some hitch-mounted RV bike racks are designed to hold one or two bikes, while others can hold four or more.

What Is A RV Bumper-Mounted Bike Rack?

A bumper bike rack is an excellent option for carrying your bikes on the back of your RV. These racks typically attach to the bumper via a hitch receiver and can usually accommodate two or more bikes.

Bumper-mounted racks are generally sturdy and accommodate various bike sizes and styles. One advantage of bumper-mounted racks is that they tend to be very easy to load and unload, which can be a major plus when you’re trying to wrangle kids and gear.

Bumper-mounted racks are affordable, making them an excellent option for budget-minded RVers. However, one downside of bumper-mounted racks is that they can obstruct your rear view, so choosing a model that allows you to still see behind you is essential.

Wrapping Up

To wrap it up, the best bike rack RV for travel trailer is the one that best meets your needs. There are many different racks available, so be sure to take the time to find the one that will work best for you.

If you frequently travel with your bikes, consider a rack designed specifically for this purpose. Otherwise, a more versatile and affordable option may be a better choice.

Whichever type of rack you choose, be sure to read the instructions carefully before installation. This will help ensure that your rack is installed correctly and provide years of trouble-free use. Thanks for reading!

You Might Also Want To Check These Out

• The Best RV Toilets
• How Do You Use Stabilizer Jacks? (5 Easy Steps)
• How To Jack Up A Travel Trailer: The Ultimate Guide

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The Best RV Bike Racks (Hitch, Ladder, Tire & Bumper Racks)

Writen by Tom Hank

Fact checked by Joseph Varney

The market offers a host of RV bike storage options. Shoppers can purchase RV bike racks for electric bikes and mounting options for various rigs. But what is the best RV bike rack to use?

It is important to mention that it might not matter if an RV and bicycle owner uses an ebike rack for RV, or any other bike rack for that matter, if the model does not possess top-notch features and traits.

Make sure to think about the different factors involved in shopping for the right bike rack. Some of the elements to consider are:

• Mounting type: The market typically sells RV bicycle racks in five different mounting options. These choices are hitch receiver mounts, ladder mounts, front or rear bumper mounts, tire mounts, and A-frame mounts.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the bike rack for the motorhome can cater to the different types of bicycle frames. An ideal choice would be to buy and install a rack that can fit different bicycles. For example, an RV bike rack for electric bikes might also fit mountain bikes.
• Bike capacity: Shoppers also need to think about the number of bikes they need to bring on their trips. Use that information to purchase a rack that can hold the appropriate number of bicycles to help clear the RV’s storage compartments.

Note that the three factors mentioned above are not the only important things to consider when looking for the ideal RV bike rack.

Other criteria regarding the materials used and the security provided are still necessary to ponder ưhen using a rack that will not cause doubt and worry. Check out those details in the buying guide below and see what the best products offer.

Table of Contents

Best Bike Rack for RV Reviews

1. swagman bicycle carrier traveler xc2 rv bicycle rack.

Unlike other bicycle racks with only one mounting style, this Swagman RV bike rack has two. I was able to mount this kit on my RV’s bumper or the hitch receiver. Depending on my camping trip’s specific demands, I can switch the mounting location.

However, I should mention that the hitch receiver pin is not included in the base kit. This additional accessory is not an expensive purchase. Still, I would prefer it if it came with the product’s standard packaging.

It is also fairly easy to assemble and use. The instruction manual was reasonably detailed to help me with each step of the installation process. Once installed, it only takes a few seconds to mount or dismount my bicycles to or from this Swagman bike rack.

But once I place my bike onto this rack, it stays there without giving me any worry. I attribute this benefit to the rack’s ratcheting arm and changeable hoop. These components secure my bicycle, giving me peace of mind during road trips. Plus, that hoop is usable on different-sized bicycle wheels.

• Top-notch versatility for it can act as a bumper or hitch-mounted bike rack
• Reasonably easy to assemble and use, with detailed instructions
• Secures bicycles with a ratcheting arm and changeable hoop
• Manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty
• Hitch pin is a separate purchase

2. Camco 51492 RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack

This Camco RV ladder mount is a nice surprise for a product of its class, primarily because of its alluring price point. In a sector filled with expensive ladder racks for bicycles, this model possesses a fairly reasonable overhead for budget-conscious folks.

This ladder rack comes with great features. For instance, the installation did not give me any trouble assembling the kit onto my RV’s ladder. Also, the set comes with the necessary add-ons and hardware, reducing the frequency of going back and forth to my local hardware store.

The kit also comes with additional straps. That way, I can drive my camper without the constant fear of my bicycles falling off of the mount. The straps also have rubber braces to add to the security they offer.

Still, I want to mention that the straps and their rubber braces slide down slightly. It usually happens when I am driving over rough terrain. The way I handled this slight caveat is that I marked the original area of the security straps. Then, I readjust these components whenever I have the chance.

• One of the least expensive bike racks with quality features
• Easy to install and comes with the necessary add-ons and hardware
• Additional straps for optimal security on mounted bikes
• Sufficient 60-pound weight capacity and can fit two bikes
• The straps and their rubber braces may slide down slightly

3. Swagman RV Ladder Bike Rack

I applaud the manufacturer for making this RV ladder bike rack as sturdy and as secure as possible. The kit does not budge after installing it onto my camper’s ladder. Its dual-arm design allows the mounted bicycles to stay on the rack throughout my road trip.

Adding to the list of this product’s safety features are the soft cradles. I can finally say goodbye to using racks that scratch the surface of my bicycles. Plus, the rack also has reflectors to prevent other vehicles on the road from miscalculating their distances when they are close to my RV during night drives.

Next, incompatibility is almost non-existent with this rack. I was able to fit it into most of the motorhomes during my tests. It was also possible to install it onto certain fifth wheels.

However, I noticed that some installations were better than others. Oftentimes, I found that this rack rattles when fitted onto some ladders on certain campers. The downside here is that the extra mounting method that should help reduce the rattling is not in the standard packaging.

Also, this rack can fit a maximum of two bicycles. But each mounting area has a weight limit of 35 pounds for a maximum of 70 pounds. Although most bicycles will not reach that ceiling, it is nice to know that the material will not bend or distort from the carried load.

• Secure installation, thanks to its dual-arm design
• Soft cradles prevent scratches on mounted bikes
• Compatible with many motorhomes and fifth wheel ladders
• Above-average 70-pound weight limit
• RV-approved construction with a sufficiently rugged construction
• Hardware that can help reduce rattling is not in the base kit

4. Surco 501BR Ladder-Mounted Bike Rack

While other bicycle racks on the market are heavy loads, this model is satisfyingly lightweight. At only 3 pounds, it did not require me to call for help to mount this rack onto my RV. Additionally, the relatively straightforward design makes it possible to fit this bike rack onto almost any trailer or van.

Furthermore, this RV bike rack has aluminum construction. Electrostatic paint also covers that material. With those combined features, the probability of this product acquiring corrosion and rust over time is almost absent.

Moreover, and like other quality bicycle racks, this model can carry up to two bikes. But one of the main differences found in this unit that is not present in many of its competitors is the pivoting arms. With those moveable parts, I can alter the position of the rack to give me access to my RV’s ladder without disassembling the kit.

I would also like to give my appreciation to the manufacturer for packing this rack fully assembled. Doing so cut the installation procedure significantly. The only thing that I needed to do was mount the rack onto the RV ladder then put my bicycles on it.

• Lightweight 3-pound RV-approved bike rack
• Aluminum construction with electrostatic paint resists corrosion and rust
• Pivoting arms that do not require disassembly to access the RV’s ladder
• The kit comes fully-assembled
• Some users may encounter fitting issues if their RVs have large ladders

5. HYPERAX Volt Hitch-Mounted Rack

To say that this hitch-mounted bike rack is a beast might be an understatement. It has a 140-pound total weight capacity. Therefore, this hitch mount design can support up to 70-pound loads for each bike placed onto this rack, making it ideal for heavy bicycles.

Additionally, I am happy that this rack can fit up to 5-inch fat-tire bikes. It even has little to no problem fitting wheelbases of up to 58 inches. I did have some trouble fitting some smaller bikes onto the rack. But I solved those concerns by purchasing a reasonably inexpensive bike adapter.

Another great feature of this RV bike rake is its ratcheting hooks. It has a co-injected rubberized construction that helps secure my bicycles onto the rack. But its soft nature prevents the hooks and straps from rubbing fiercely against my bicycle’s frame, unlike other hitch-mounted racks I used.

Installation and removal procedures were also incredibly easy for a hitch-mounted rack. Also, the design has a carrying handle, allowing me to easily lift and carry the entire set for storage. The kit’s design is also foldable, alleviating some storage space in one of my RV’s compartments.

• Large 140-pound maximum weight limit
• This rack can fit up to 5-inch fat tire bikes with wheelbases of up to 58 inches
• Co-injected rubberized ratcheting hooks with soft feels to prevent scratches
• Easy to install and remove, thanks to the handle and foldable design
• Only fits 2-inch Class 3 hitch receivers
• Some users may not be able to install this rack at the front of their vehicles

6. Swagman 80605 Two-Bike Rack

This Swagman 80605 Two-Bike Rack is even lighter than I imagined. It weighs less than a pound, making this kit one of the most lightweight units I encountered for a product of its class.

Despite the lightweight build, it can still comfortably hold up to two bikes, a total of 60 pounds or 30 pounds per bike.

Although this product is stupendously lightweight, the manufacturer was still able to outfit it with heavy-duty steel construction. The kit also possesses a black powder-coated finish to prevent corrosion and rust.

Security is also top-notch for this product. Take note that installing this bike rack onto my RV’s bumper is possible through the system’s U-bolts. The fit for these components is just right, making the assembly almost rattle-free in many on-road scenarios. Also, the upright bar at the center of the rack helps support the bicycles during towing operations.

The rack’s compatibility with different bicycle frames is also quite remarkable. I was able to mount different kinds of bikes onto it without experiencing significant trouble.

• Weigh less than a pound without compromising the maximum weight limit
• Stacks 2 bikes weighing 30 pounds each
• Sturdy steel construction with black powder-coated finish
• Secure U-bolts to help reduce unwanted motions during travel
• Compatible with different types of bicycles
• Might be challenging to install it on some RVs because of its design

7. Quick Products QPRBM2R RV Bumper Rack

I noticed that many stainless steel RV bike racks are quite expensive. So it is nice to see that this particular model sits at a budget-friendly price point. This reasonably low cost also comes with a powder-coated finish to help resist corrosion and rust.

Also, this particular RV bike rack can work as a bumper- or tire-mounted rack. This improved versatility allows me to move the kit’s installation, depending on the requirements presented by my trip.

The two mounts are also adjustable. This flexibility allowed me to fit any bicycle of any length, as long as the bikes do not have fat tires. Plus, the slotted wells for the tires have stabilizers to secure the bicycles and prevent them from falling while driving my RV.

I also appreciate that the weight distribution on this RV bike rack is sufficiently stable. The system stayed as level as possible even when two bikes were loaded onto it. I did not see any significant bends or dents to the unit while it held my bicycles.

• Fits within the budget-friendly price range
• Usable as a bumper- or tire-mounted rack
• Adjustable mounts for bicycles of relatively any length
• Good weight distribution to load up to two bikes without bends or dents
• May not fit fat bicycle tires
• Minor alterations might be necessary to complete the assembly

8. Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR Rear Bumper Bike Rack

Many bike racks on the market work as intended, but this model offers more than the usual functions. Unlike other frames that can only fit bicycles, this one allows users to use it as an additional storage area for other objects.

Aside from my bikes, I used this RV bike rack to carry different cargo, as long as the overall weight did not exceed the rack’s weight limit.

In fact, it can hold loads of up to 500 pounds. With that, the rack’s sturdiness can hold up to 25 20-pound bicycles.

Although carrying that many bikes on this kit are not possible, users should get an idea of the durability of this heavy-duty steel rack.

The package also has a tie-down strap, which works as intended. It keeps my bicycle and other carried objects secured to the carrier. Also, I can fit a maximum of four bikes onto this rack, provided that the bicycles possess reasonably thin frames.

I also like that this model comes with a year of the manufacturer’s limited warranty. This policy allows me to request parts repairs and replacements if certain components become damaged because of natural causes.

• Usable to carry bicycles and other loads
• Maximum weight limit of 500 pounds
• Durable, heavy-duty steel RV bike rack
• Tie-down strap securely holds objects in place
• Manufacturer’s one-year limited warranty for parts
• Heavy bike rack that may require assistance during installation procedures

9. Swagman 66684 Dispatch Hitch Mount Bike Rack

I love the fact that this Swagman hitch-mounted bike rack promotes effortless installation. Unlike other models that demanded a comical amount of time to assemble, this product only required me to use a few minutes. After setting it up, mounting my bicycles onto this rack is also quite easy to accomplish.

The next likable trait that I would like to mention is this product’s durability. Made with a sturdy metal material, this model held well as I drove through rough roads. It even stood weather tests, and it did not acquire significant damage from those conditions.

Bike security is also top-notch. I traveled in my camper for about 7,000 miles with this rack holding my bicycles. To say that this product carried my bikes well throughout that road trip might even be an understatement.

This bike rack is also compatible with different vehicles. I fit it into automobiles like a Subaru Ascent, a Winnebago Sunstar, and a Nissan Pathfinder. Moreover, I completed each installation procedure without encountering any significant issues.

• One of the easiest and fastest installation processes for bike racks
• Durable metal material that holds well against rough roads and bad weather
• Secures mounted bicycles well during long road trips
• Compatible with different vehicles, such as the Subaru Ascent
• Some bikes may not fit onto this rack securely without some modifications

10. Let’s Go Aero 429756 RV Bike Carrier

This particular bike carrier does not look like many of the other models I see on the market, which is a good thing.

It is a fully patented rack with an innovative frame that promotes utmost security and stability for mounted bicycles. Besides, this RV bike rack has 30 bolt patterns that securely attach to my RV.

I also appreciate that this carrier can hold relatively any bicycle I mount on it. It has a universal mounting system that allows me to fit different bikes, including dirt and mountain bikes.

This product can also hold up to 80 pounds of bicycle weight, and it can securely carry up to two bikes at the same time. That 80-pound weight limit is above average, considering that many competing models on the market can only hold up to 60 pounds.

Furthermore, the package comes with a complete kit with all the necessary parts and hardware to complete the assembly. Many of the components also come from this brand, which assures me that most if not all of the parts use top-quality materials.

The design did not prevent me from looking at the mounted bicycles from my RV’s driver seat. One glance at my rearview mirror, and I can see my bikes mounted securely.

• Innovative and fully-patented frame with 30 bolt patterns to secure the assembly
• Universal mounting system can hold and carry relatively any bicycle frame
• Can hold up to 80 pounds of bike weight
• The base package comes as a complete kit
• Promotes quick checkups by looking at the assembly from the rearview mirror
• Some unclear instructions might make installation jobs more challenging

11. Swagman Travel Trailer Bike Rack

At first, I was afraid that this bumper bike rack for travel trailers would collide with my RV’s spare tire setup. However, the manufacturer seems to have confidently come up with a rack with a design that does not bump into an RV’s spare tire.

With this rack, I was able to mount and bring my bicycles without the need to remove that extra tire.

I also adore that this rack has anti-sway cradles for my bicycles. That setup also has dual arms that rotate and slide when needed. My bicycles stay in their positions with these components throughout my road trips.

Also, the cradles have rubber straps that secure the bikes, and the fairly plush material also prevents unwanted scratches.

This stability is one of the best I have experienced in a bicycle rack. With this product, I could carry two bikes for over 7,500 miles.

Additionally, it might be pretty rare for me to see a visually appealing bike rack, but this model fits into that category. The setup fits well with the aesthetics of some camper vehicles.

• Assembly does not collide with an RV’s spare tire
• Anti-sway cradles with dual arms allow the bicycles to stay in place
• Top-notch stability promotes security for mounted bikes during long road trips
• Visually appealing design that should fit the aesthetics of many camping vehicles
• Long rack may promote the risk of breaking the bumper

RV Bike Racks Buying Guide

Searching for the best RV bike racks can be quite tough, particularly for beginners in the sector. Buying the wrong bike rack for RV can create compatibility issues with the bicycles of users, along with other problems.

So it is important to think about some essential factors while shopping for the right bike rack for RV. Some of the elements to think about are:

Mounting Type

Generally, interested buyers can find five types of mounting systems for the different bike racks for campers that are available on the market.

• Hitch mount: A typical RV hitch bike rack often works with most vehicles, including many travel trailers. Many trailer hitch-mounted racks tend to have the weight capacity to hold up to five bicycles at the same time.
• Ladder mount: Ladder-mounted bike racks are often ideal for carrying mountain bicycles. Quality ladder mounts can also help save rig owners some space since these mounts are usually out of the way of other storage items.
• Bumper mount: Bumper-mounted racks generally provide optimal visibility for RV drivers. Using a bicycle rack for an RV bumper typically does not obstruct a camper’s windshields.
• Tire mount: These bike racks for motorhomes typically go on the vehicles’ spare tire. Although quite useful, rigs that do not have a spare tire at the back may not be able to take advantage of this type of RV bike mount.
• A-frame mount: These camper bike racks are often best for single- and twin-axle rigs. The design of these RV bike racks will not exceed the vehicle’s nose-weight ceiling, reducing the risks of weight-related issues for rigs.

Compatibility

Remember that different bike frames exist. So it might still not be possible to install the bikes securely if these two-wheeled vehicles and the bike rack on the tow vehicle are not compatible.

Check for RV bike rack reviews before finalizing any purchasing decision. That way, buyers can check if an electric bike rack for RV can also be used as a carrier for mountain bikes.

Do not forget to think about the overall bike size and bike wheels. A bicycles’ dimensions can also adversely or positively affect its fit with the rack.

Bike Capacity

Some of the bike racks on the market can only carry up to two bikes. Make sure to ask how many bikes a particular RV bicycle rack can carry.

Take note that it is possible to find an RV bike rack 4 bikes or a 6-bike rack for RV. Using a bike rack for camper that can carry the right number of bicycles can help many rig owners enhance their rigs’ storage space.

An RV bike carrier should last a long time. Keep in mind the materials used in creating the product. For instance, a bike rack for back of camper may have a heavy-duty steel construction. But it might still be susceptible to corrosion, rust, and weather damage if it does not possess an appropriate finish.

Ease of Installation and Use

A bicycle rack for RV should not create problems for bike and RV owners. The right RV bike rack must be easy to install and use. Remember, a bike rack easily installs if it is compatible with the appropriate RV equipment. Still, certain bike racks provide better convenience than others.

For instance, bike racks for RV ladder are often great choices if bicycle users have friends or family members to help unload the bikes from their vehicles. On the other hand, an RV bike rack hitch mount can be a better option than a ladder-mount bike rack for solo camper or motorhome users.

Many bike owners dread the possibility of their bicycles falling off their racks while driving their rigs. The right bike rack will have features that keep the mounted bicycles secure.

For example, adjustable wheel ratchet straps should be on the mind of buyers when thinking of RV bike rack ideas. Doing so will help interested customers in determining a secure rack for hauling bikes to buy.

Perhaps one of the primary bases for buyers to continue and finalize their purchasing decisions is if their choice of travel trailer bike rack is affordable or not. Keep in mind that it is not ideal to spend an entire budget on buying one bike rack for travel trailer.

Also, it might not be a good idea to skimp on spending money to buy the right bike rack. A particular model with low-quality features and traits may provide more problems than benefits.

Do You Need A Special Bike Rack For An RV?

An RV approved bike rack is generally the optimal choice to store and carry bicycles on a camper, motorhome, or travel trailer. Using RV rated bike racks ensures users that these models have the durability to last a long time.

Other qualities of RV-approved bicycle racks include them being tested by the manufacturer and having warranties that promote peace of mind.

What Makes A Bike Rack RV Compatible?

Different elements are involved in thinking about the compatibility of a bike rack with a rig. Buyers should ask themselves probing questions to ensure that the bicycle rack they buy is the correct model. Certain inquiries may include (but are not limited to):

• What is the number of bikes to carry for the trip?
• Can the camper or motorhome cater to a ladder-mounted rack?
• Does the RV have a square bumper adjustable mounting system?
• Is it possible to install the chosen RV bike rack over propane tanks?
• Can the bike rack fit nearly any length bicycle?

It can also be ideal to consider the brand of the bike rack. Some companies that offer RV accessories already established their credibility in the industry after years of supplying users with quality products and customer service.

Shoppers can also use online search engines to their advantage in searching for these high-quality models. For example, using keywords like ‘Thule RV bike rack’ or ‘Camco RV ladder mount’ can supply shoppers with the search results they want to see. Otherwise, it can take more time and effort than intended to shop for the right bike rack.

How Do You Attach A Bike Rack To An RV?

Before proceeding with this task, it can be practical to check the owner’s manual that should come with the bike rack. Some models may demand unique steps for a proper installation. For example, a bumper-mounted rack often has a dissimilar installation procedure when compared to a fifth-wheel hitch bike rack.

With that said, here is a quick look at the steps to attach an A-frame bike rack to an RV:

• Search for the optimal location to attach the A-frame bicycle rack onto the RV.
• Install and secure the base of the mounting bracket onto the RV’s A-frame.
• Slide the angled posts into the mounting bracket’s poles.
• Adjust the angle and height of the rack to clear the rig’s propane tank container.
• Mount and secure the main unit of the bracket onto the angled posts.
• Load bikes onto the bicycle rack to check the fit.

How Much Weight Can An RV Bumper Hold?

Generally, installing bumper mounts on a bare RV bumper is not a safe way to store and carry pieces of equipment. Travel trailer bumpers are often flimsy and cannot handle a weight of more than 300 pounds.

On the other hand, it is possible to install bumper-mounted racks using other accessories to hold the setup safely. Still, it can be best to use a camper bumper bike rack setup that is relatively lightweight to avoid adding strain to the component.

Buying and installing the best RV bike rack promotes peace of mind for rig owners that are also bicycle enthusiasts. The right bike-carrying kit should have the ideal features and specifications to promote the most benefits.

With that said, the numerous advantages I found from a bicycle rack is the Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR Rear Bumper Bike Rack. Its 500-pound weight limit and other top-notch features make it difficult to beat within the bike rack sector.

Hi, I am Joseph. Carpe diem! Seize the day! That’s always been my life motto. If you haven’t seen some of the most beautiful places in the country, you are missing out on incredible adventures.

Last updated on: March 18, 2022

The 11 Best RV Bike Racks for the Money in 2022

by Chris Coleman

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Traveling with an RV means a world of adventure is waiting for you. People who love hiking during their camping trips find bicycles as a useful option. And, to carry a bike along, they will need a bike carrier for travel trailer . Choosing the best RV bike rack can be tricky, but with the right guideline, you will not have any difficulty selecting the right bike rack for your bike.

Top-Rated RV Bike Racks Comparison Chart

What is a bike rack for rv, benefits of bike racks for travel trailers, 1. bumper bike rack, 2. hitch bike rack, 3. ladder bike rack, 4. trailer tongue rack, 1. swagman 80630 – best of the best, 2. camco 51492  – editor’s choice, 3. swagman traveler xc2, 4. allen sports 542rr, 5. let’s go aero jack-it, 6. swagman 80605, 7. swagman dispatch, 8. quick products qprbm2r, 9. surco 501br, 10. swagman escapee, 11. swagman 80501, 1. number of bikes, 2. bike size and style, 3. person who will mount and descend the bike, 4. frequency of accessing bikes, 5. presence of roof ladder, 6. space for adding a hitch mount, 7. presence of square bumper, 8. spare tire on the trailer back side, how to install a bike rack in rv, what brands make the best bike racks for rv, how could i fit a bike rack to my rv, is it a good idea to order bike racks online, what needs to be done to keep the rack of my rig in top shape , do i have to follow certain rules once it comes to rv-rated bike racks, need more gear advice, rv bike rack basics.

People, who love biking and camping at the same time, a bike rack is a must-have for them. A travel trailer bike rack is a piece of essential equipment to carry the bike when one is traveling.

These racks are made of high-quality materials to make them long-lasting and fully-functional. These bike racks also come in different sizes and types, so people can choose the best RV bike rack according to their necessity.

There are endless benefits of RV bike racks, depending on the particular model you have bought. Here are some of the prime advantages of getting a bike rack for a travel trailer.

• Works as the storage space for the bikes without taking any internal space of the motorhome.
• Keeps the bikes in a fixed place when users are driving the RV or camping.
• Even during towing, it does not cause any disturbance.
• It gives the travel trailer a distinctive look instead of the conventional one.

Types of RV Bike Racks

Different types of bike racks are available in the market that users can attach to their RVs. It is not possible to decide which one is the best RV bike rack from the general discussion. Rather, the usefulness will depend on its ability to fulfill the users’ requirements.

A bumper bike rack is a perfect choice for those who are not willing to install a hitch receiver on the trailer. The fundamental of this rack is to clamp around the RV’s bumper with the help of mounting plates or U-bolts. These racks can be of hanging or platform style.

Make sure that the bumper is sturdy enough to handle a bike rack. It usually requires a welded steel bumper of 4 inches x 4 inches. However, bumpers of aluminum or spot welding are not suitable for handling the weight.

Usually, strong bumpers come with fifth-wheel trailers, travel trailers, and pop-up campers . Once someone chooses a model that fits the bumper size, it is easy to install. The only points of consideration should be the weight distribution and the added length. This rack tends to move the RV’s balance toward the back end, and therefore, you may find it tough to maneuver.

The hitch bike rack is the most popular rack option that also offers the maximum variety. You can seamlessly attach these to the front or back or rear of a trailer. Therefore, one can transfer the same rack to another vehicle without thinking about compatibility. The prerequisite of this rack to have a pre-installed trailer hitch with a square port for attachment in the RV. With its absence, you can get one separately and install it.

Based on the chosen model, each of these racks can accommodate two to six bikes. Its main drawbacks are offset weight balance and additional motorhome length. If you don’t consider these too big of a problem, proceed to purchase it.

These are the racks people can seamlessly hook or strap onto the ladder’s steps , even without taking any help from any additional tool. It also takes very little space, which makes it the best RV bike rack for users who cannot afford much space.

Usually, each of these racks can carry only two bikes at a time. Remember that unless someone is tall enough or the RV ladder is near the ground, it would be hard to access the bikes the rack will carry.

The rule of thumb is most of the bike racks for RV ladder will fit into a trailer that comes with a ladder. However, to avoid any size issues, check the compatibility information that comes with the product, or get a model that has a seamless return policy.

As the name suggests, one has to attach this rack to the front of the motorhome. The rack location is where the RV attaches to a vehicle hitch. Although this rack involves difficulties of purchase and installation, people who choose to have this will get peace of mind and convenience. It also becomes hard for people to select the best bike rack for RV of this type as the variety offers many options.

Reviews on The Best RV Bike Racks

New to the world of RV and feel clueless once it comes to bike racks? In that case, this article would show you the rope. To make an informed investment, you should take a close look at the features as well as reviews of best-selling racks presented down below

Why This Is The Best

Made from corrosion-resistant aluminum, Swagman 80630 is kind of light compared to its competitors but it’s still able to take on various outdoor elements. As a result, for RVers that care about ruggedness, the rack of Swagman is the best RV bike rack available for purchase on the market. Aside from that, thanks to the inclusion of dual-arm design, 80630 guarantees super support for the bikes on the move. Since the Swagman bike racks also pack soft cradles, it firmly holds onto bikes of RVers without creating unsightly marks.

Secured to the ladder of recreational vehicles through functional hooks, Swagman 80630 only requires a couple of minutes to set up. In terms of capacity, the bike rack from Swagman could accommodate 2 bikes and its max load is 35 pounds per bike. Considering the biking preference of RVers nowadays, the capacity of 80630 is by all accounts adequate. Using the convenient rubber straps included on the Swagman bike rack, it’s possible to attach and detach bikes in the blink of an eye.

For safety in low-light conditions, Swagman incorporates reflectors into its rack to make it visible to passing-by drivers. Therefore, if you have to drive overnight from time to time then you should definitely add Swagman 80630 to your shortlist.

This Ladder rack worked perfectly on my RV. I hung the bike vertically due to my ladder being located on the rear right side of the RV. The foam on the vertical bars of the rack kept the rack from vibrating during our last 1900 mile trip. When I secured the bike front wheel, I did it so as to keep downward pressure on the rack which served two purposes at the same time. If you don’t want the bike to disappear you’ll need to use a cable lock preventing would be thieves from a five finger discount. I would highly recommend this rack to others. Shared by LB

• Durable and light
• Adaptability is top-notch
• Straightforward setup process
• Ill-suited for short ladders
• Inconsistent performance between the racks

Why This Is An Editor’s Choice

Capable of holding 2 bikes securely at the same time, Camco 51492 proves to be an outstanding companion of lots of RVers from first-timers to veterans. Constructed out of steel tubing, the bike rack from Camco boasts a loading capacity of 60 pounds which makes it useful in quite a few setups. While it occupies the ladder of your rig after installation concludes, you could still remove 51492 at a moment’s notice. Moreover, the Camco rack is foldable and storage tends to be less than an issue.

Featuring rugged form-fit cradles and an adjustable strap, Camco 51492 should get a tight hold of bikes of multiple sizes. Unsurprisingly, the Camco bike rack is deemed to be the best RV bike rack in its class for family travels. About the price,  51492 comes at an affordable cost so you don’t have to empty your wallet to grab it. If you have concerns regarding the aesthetic of your RV, it’s worth noting that Camco offers its bike rack in 2 colors: silver and black.

As for the aftermarket support, Camco 51492 is backed with a fairly decent 90-day manufacturer warranty. If you wish to have an insurance policy, the bike rack of Camco would be one of your best options.

Lightweight and easy to install. We loaded two adult bikes weighing 50 pounds combined which it held. I put wood blocking between the ladder and bike rack to make the bikes lean toward the RV for added safety and peace of mind. Straps and a bike lock secured bikes to ladder. Shared by John and Linda S.

• The price is fair
• Intuitive installation
• Fit an assortment of recreational vehicles
• The hinge needs to be redesigned
• Quality control still needs some work  

Engineered to attach to towing hitches and steel welded bumpers, Swagman Traveler XC2 is well-liked by RVers that want to keep the ladder free. Assuming that you closely follow the instructions in the manual, you could assemble then install Traveler XC2  in a heartbeat. In addition, because of the adjustable push-button ratchet arm on Swagman Traveler XC2, securing bikes to the rack is a walk in the park. Last but not least, the bike rack from Swagman may be folded too so it seldom sticks out like a sore thumb outside of use.

Packing a capacity of 2 bikes and a total load of 70 pounds (35 pounds/bike), Swagman Traveler XC2 is an apt model for typical excursions on RV. Featuring first-class black powder coat finish that resists corrosion and rust, the Swagman bike rack holds together well in a wide range of environments. Thus, full-time RVers that hit the road year-round think highly of Traveler XC2. In terms of price, the bike rack from Swagman certainly seems expensive but its rock-solid values justify the cost.

You often have to leave the bikes of your rig unattended and worry about theft? If that is your concern, Swagman also offers an optional security cable for Traveler XC2.

Mounted to my RV to the bumper with no problems. I chose to use included bumper mount rather than my 2” RV receiver to give the bikes more road clearance. I moved the spare over, and Used a 8” receiver extension I ordered with the carrier to ensure the rack cleared the spare ( highly recommended). It worked out perfectly. The rack is very well made and very user friendly with great folding features. I also used a Allen bike bar for my wife’s bike to adequately secure it. It also worked great. Good purchase I am happy! Shared by Pop Bull, Trussville, AL

• Marvelous packaging
• Dependable and reliable  
• Responsive customer service
• Slightly costly
• Require a clearance to work in some settings

Why We Love It

Boasting individual tie-down cradles that freely rotate around its carry arm, Allen Sports 542RR works with an assortment of bikes used by RVers today. Furthermore, the long carry arm of 542RR happens to be a folding design so there is no need to worry about it getting in the way as you move around. In the case that you desire complete access, it’s possible to tilt the mast of the Allen Sports rack. Naturally, Allen Sports 542RR receives lots of positive remarks from enthusiasts of RVing that look for no-nonsense bike racks.

Thanks to the use of sturdy no-wobble bolt, the level of security for the bikes in 542RR is superior to that of usual models. Since it comes alongside mounting hardware, you should be able to fit the bike rack from Allen Sports to your recreational vehicle in mere minutes. Besides that, as it features a steel construction and black powder coat finish, Allen Sports 542RR is known to operate consistently in changing weather conditions. Actually, few bike racks on the market could outperform 542RR once it comes to resilience.

Regarding loading capacity, Allen Sports 542RR is capable of accommodating up to 4 bikes simultaneously for a max load of 140 pounds. For those that keek high-capacity rack, the model from Allen Sports is considered to be the best RV bike rack at its price range.

This is the first bike rack I’ve ever purchased. I put it on the back of a Class C motorhome, loaded it with four bikes (2 adult, 2 child) and drove it from the Gainesville, GA to Spokane WA. All told, over 3000 miles. We drove on interstates, state routes, and bouncy gravel roads during the trip. With the camera on the back of the RV, I saw it bounce around hundreds of times, and there were NO problems. Great product. Keep in mind, when I say it bounced around, that was not the fault of the rack, which has a great no-wobble bolt. it bounced because i had an 8-inch hitch extender which had some play. I know because I physically moved it around and watched where it wobbled. I waited until after the trip to write the review. The rotating tie down straps worked perfectly on two odd-shaped frames, and I did not have to purchase or have to use an adapter bar. Couldn’t recommend more. Great rack that’s held up to abuse with no problems. Shared by Amazon Customer

• Long-lasting
• Sublime loading capacity
• Lifetime manufacturer warranty
• Particular component need reinforcements
• Customer service is less than ideal

Designed to match all bike frames, Let’s Go Aero Jack-It of Lippert could be put to good use by every enthusiast of RVing. Being installed over the tongue jack of recreational vehicles, Let’s Go Aero Jack-It allows RVers to utilize valuable exterior space for extra gears. That is definitely going to be a major plus for people that own modest rigs. The Lippert rack is made to hold 2 bikes for a total load of 80 pounds and its innovative BikeWing carrier would hold onto the bikes securely and firmly by the wheels.

Due to a combination of foam bumpers and the advanced SwayControl control system, the stability of Let’s Go Aero Jack-It is essentially unmatched. Therefore, if you enjoy off-roading on your rig and want to save the stylish finish of your bikes, the model from Lippert should be your best RV bike rack. Moreover, the PowerTower frame of the rack guards the tongue jack of RV against impact while traveling so it’s a superb albeit costly addition. In general, Let’s Go Aero Jack-It is one of the finest bike racks for camper money can buy.

For installation, the setup process of the RV bike rack from Lippert is intuitive so it only lasts for moments. Also, the warranty of your RV remains valid after you fit Let’s Go Aero Jack-It to its chassis.

Ordered and rec’d in time for our summer camping trip through three states. Absolutely loved it. Even went across the Bay bridge and on a ferry ride with no problems. Really appreciate the tip that one buyer gave to simply lower the tailgate of your truck to give you a stable platform from which to load the bikes. Just be sure you line your truck up to your camper as if to hitch it. Agree its easier as a two person job with your partner pass you (in this case the “wife”) the rear bike up handle bars first to load closest to the camper. I also placed an old sock on the pedal facing the camper to avoid scratches.We bungeed the bikes for extra security. Bottom line is that it worked beautifully. Folks stopped by at the various campgrounds to ask about it. I’m now on the hunt for a bike cover to protect the bikes in transit. Shared by EL

• Fast installation
• Space-saving
• Durable construction
• The instruction manual is poorly-written

Basic and practical, Swagman 80605 is often regarded as the best RV bike rack for people that prioritize straightforwardness over all. Because of the user-friendly design, setting up the rack from Swagman is a cakewalk. Packing tire rails that support common sizes, frames and wheels of bikes, 80605 makes sure that enthusiasts of RVing could load and unload bikes at will. As for the loading capacity, Swagman 80605 takes 2 bikes and its max load is 60 pounds that divide into 30 pounds per bike.

Featuring a heavy-duty construction as well as powder-coated finish, the Swagman bike rack performs admirably in challenging settings. As proof of confidence, Swagman backs 80605 with a limited lifetime manufacturer warranty which speaks volumes about its durability and reliability. Aside from bikes, Swagman 80605 would be well-suited for carrying a number of gears too. So if you want to keep your rig flexible and versatile in outdoor travels, you should think about picking up the bike rack of Swagman.

One thing that you must keep in mind about Swagman 80605 is that it’s made for continuous-welded steel bumpers. If you fit the Swagman rack to aluminum and spot-welded bumpers then it could cause a lot of headaches in use so be careful.

• Wonderful handling
• Market-leading warranty
• Support for the bikes is excellent
• Mediocre quality control
• Restricted to continuous-welded steel bumpers

Only able to accommodate 2 bikes at once, Swagman Dispatch is surely unexceptional in the matter of capacity but its total load is quite impressive: 90 pounds. In fact, once it comes to load per bike, the Swagman bike rack is second to none in its class. Naturally, Dispatch gets a shower of praise from RVers that like to carry sophisticated bikes. Furthermore, the upright mast of Swagman Dispatch folds down outside of use so it’s rarely perceived to be an obstruction by enthusiasts of RVing.

Thanks to the integration of sliding wheel trays, it’s a breeze to adjust the bike rack of Swagman to load bikes of many lengths. As Dispatch packs padded hooks, the bikes would be protected from scratches, abrasions and alike. Since Swagman Dispatch is accompanied by hitch lock and security cable, you could secure the rack to your RV and your bikes to the rack. That is why lots of people count on the rack made by Swagman for peace of mind on the road.

Unlike most of its competitors, Swagman Dispatch features a threaded hitch pin that reduces movement and keeps the noise down. Thus, if you don’t want to put up with nerve-racking noise while traveling, Dispatch is the best RV bike rack you could get.

• Well-made and rugged
• Marvelous adjustability
• Informative user’s manual  
• Loosen over time

Possessing 2 platforms that mount onto steel square bumpers of recreational vehicles, Quick Products QPRBM2R is a highly adaptable rack. Since it boasts adjustable mountings, the model of Quick Products gives RVers complete control over its width so getting a tight fit is a breeze. Also, due to the inclusion of slotted tire wells, QPRBM2R could hold the bikes firmly as your rig navigate a wide range of terrains. A top-notch stabilizer post is present on Quick Products QPRBM2R as well which provides an anchor to both support and fasten the bikes.

Engineered to take 2 bikes and a max load of 70 pounds (35 pounds per bike), the Quick Products rack is a decent choice for the average trips. At just 21.2 pounds, Quick Products QPRBM2R is relatively light compared to typical bumper-mounted bike racks for RV too. As a result, it’s unlikely that QPRBM2R would cause the bumper of your rig to deform over time. That being said, to be on the safe side, it’s strongly recommended that you recheck the load limit of your bumpers before installing the bike rack from Quick Products.

Available at a reasonable price, Quick Products QPRBM2R is possibly the best RV bike rack on the market for RVers that seek economical models. In the case that you find yourself short on funds while looking for a rack, QPRBM2R is for you.

• Lightweight
• Affordable and capable
• No-nonsense assembly
• A couple of RVers complain about missing parts
• Some racks have incorrectly spaced drill holes

So you have a hard time finding ladder-mounted bike racks that don’t make a mess of your ladder? If that is the case then you should consider getting Surco 501BR for your rig. Made out of aluminum, 501BR is known to be among the lightest bike racks for RV ladder these days: it weighs only 4 pounds. Because of that, the strain that the Surco rack imposes on the ladder of RV is by all accounts negligible. Despite its weight, Surco 501BR remains a solid rack that accommodates 2 bikes simultaneously and packs a total load of 75 pounds.

Regarding installation, the Surco rack would attach to the vertical support bars of standard back ladders found on recreational vehicles. As the brackets of 501BR camp around the tubing,  there is no need to worry about setting up complicated straps. In addition, being mounted individually to either side of the ladder, the arms of Surco 501BR get a firm hold of bikes of various designs. Moreover, the arms pivot so you could access the ladder of your vehicle after removing the bikes from the rack.

Besides the bike rack, Surco also offers an optional security cable for owners of 501BR. By making use of the cable, RVers should be able to secure bikes to the Surco rack and deter theft.

• High endurance
• Straightforward setup
• Nice loading capacity
• The cradles still need some work

No products found.

As a heavy-duty rack designed for first-class bikes, Swagman Escapee features an impressive load of 60 pounds per bike and it could hold 2 bikes. Unsurprisingly, for enthusiasts of RVing that desire premium biking experience, Escapee is the best RV bike rack money can buy. Thanks to the versatile design, the rack of Swagman proves to be a good match for an assortment of bikes. Through the handy rear-wheel ratcheting straps, adjusting the length of Swagman Escapee to fit particular bikes is a cakewalk.

One interesting thing about the model from Swagman is that it guarantees zero frame contact: its ratcheting arms strictly grab the wheels of the bikes. That means Escapee holds the bikes securely but it excels at preserving the delicate finish on the bikes as well. Furthermore, the low loading weight of  Swagman Escapee reduces the strain of mounting the bikes. In most cases, attaching and detaching the bikes only takes a few moments so you could focus on other issues.

Boasting a steel construction and silver powder coat finish, the Swagman bike rack receives lots of compliments for its ruggedness. RVers that own Escapee never have to worry it getting rusty as time passes by.

• Hold bikes firmly
• Quiet and sturdy
• Smooth operation
• Shipping service is barely acceptable
• Several racks arrive with missing parts

While bumper-mounted bike racks definitely work well in many setups, they sometimes prevent RVers from carrying a spare tire. Knowing that, Swagman introduced 80501 which is engineered to mount onto bumpers over the spare tire. As a result, by fitting the rack of Swagman to your RV, you could bring along bikes without having to leave the spare tire behind. Since Swagman sold its RV-rated bike rack alongside mounting hardware, setting up 80501 is essentially a walk in the park.

With anti-sway cradles that rotate and slide along the dual arms, it’s a breeze to get bikes into position on the Swagman rack. The cradles also incorporate rubber straps for a firm hold so Swagman 80501 secures bikes well. In the case that you need to get to the spare tire, all you have to do is to take out the removable pins on each side of the rack. Packing a steel construction as well as corrosion-resistant black powder coat finish, the bike rack from Swagman is able to take lots of abuses.

As for aftermarket support, Swagman backs its bike rack with a limited lifetime manufacturer warranty. Needless to say, to RVers that wish to have peace of mind, the warranty of Swagman is undoubtedly well-received.

• Adaptable design
• Stable and secured
• User-friendly handling
• Some customers report attaching and detaching issues
• Unable to accommodate certain bikes

How to Choose the Best RV Bike Rack

There are an ample number of factors to consider before choosing what would be the best RV-rated bike rack .

One of the very first things to consider is how many bikes you want to carry on the rack. Knowing this will automatically narrow down the choices. Generally, an average bike rack can accommodate two to four bicycles.

However, different varieties can carry up to six bikes while there are some racks for a single bicycle.

RV bike racks can be permanently fixed or adjustable. That is why one must have a good idea about the size and style of bicycles they want to carry before making the final decision. Still, some shops do offer exchange options in case a rack does not fit.

The height of the person who will deal with the bike matters in this case. Ladder racks are perfect for tall people, but people who are around 5′ or less will find it laborious to handle.

Bumper-mounted racks are easy to unhook, but it is not 100% secure. So, decide on the most convenient style before purchasing the best RV bike rack .

People who have to use bikes more frequently will need a rack that offers easy access. For them, bumper, hitch, or spare tire mount racks are the most suitable choice. Both ladder and roof-mounted racks can be challenging to access, so you can choose them if you use the bikes rarely.

If there is a ladder on the back of your RV, you can choose an RV ladder bike rack . It will allow you to mount and unmount the bikes easily, but it will carry only two bicycles. Although they are easy to assemble, height and upper body strength can be the challenges here. If there is no ladder, one has to look for other options.

These racks are easy to connect and can provide space for three bikes at max. To get one of these, check if the RV has enough room.

Bumper racks will require a square bumper in the RV. Without this, you can forget about this specific type of racks. Although it is the best RV bike rack for effortlessly mounting and unmounting bikes, there can be security issues.

If there are spare tires on the RV, pop-up trailers, and fifth wheels, one can use that to attach a bicycle rack for RV . In this case, the rack fits around or over that tire, while connecting to the bumper or frame. However, the added length can be a bit problematic.

The installation process of bike racks for camper depends on its type. Every variety and model comes with a distinct set of fitting instructions. Hence, one must follow the guideline that the manufacturer suggests for the purchased model.

Nevertheless, bumper-mounted racks usually take more time and energy than the other types. They also require more hardware and careful installation to make sure that it can take the weight of the bikes.

To install, screw an adapter to cover the steel-welded bumper of the motorhome. Then, securely lock the bracket on top of the bumper by installing screws and nuts. Finally, fasten the rest of the rack using some bolt or pin.

For installing a hitch-mounted rack, users have to slide that into the hitch receiver. Then, securely pin it to the place. In case of ladder racks, hook it over the RV ladder rungs and strap that into place properly.

If you find it troublesome to follow the instructions, contact the customer service of the company or call a technician to install the bike rack for RV trailer .

FAQs About Bike Racks Of RV

RV bike racks come from many manufacturers but if you like to stay on the safe side, get your rack from reputable names like Lippert, Camco, Swagman and so on. While models from famous brands don’t always get favorable reviews from the users, they remain preferable to racks that come from lesser-known labels. In addition to that, if some problems come up, RVers have more confidence in the aftermarket support of prominent manufacturers than that of obscured brands.

Different racks require different approaches so it’s strongly recommended that you adhere to the instructions in the manual instead of improvising on the spot. Fortunately, modern-day models tend to have undemanding installations so there is no need to find a mechanic to help you set up bike racks. Assuming that you obey the manual and use suitable tools, you should be able to finish attaching the bike rack to your rig before long. Nonetheless, in the case that you need assistance, feel free to call in the professionals.

To put it plainly, due to the extensive growth of e-commerce, people could buy an assortment of goods without having to set foot outside. Moreover, through online retailers such as Amazon, eBay and others, it’s possible to compare offers from various sellers and grab the best bargain available. All in all, if you lack the time to visit physical stores, you may order your RV bike rack online. That being said, remember that for online purchases, you don’t get to check the products until you receive them.   

Well, all models eventually break but if you look after your bike rack, it’s going to last for years. As a result, you should think about washing the rack of your RV periodically with mild detergent and soft cloths. Also, to ensure that the rack operates smoothly on the road, it’s essential that you lube the mechanisms periodically. Of course, you have to use lubricant moderately: if you go overboard, the excess lubricant would accumulate dirt, dust, debris, … and lead to multiple troubles. During off-seasons, it’s suggested that you remove the bike rack of our vehicle and put it into storage.

Usually, just by reading through the user’s manuals, RVers could grasp what particular bike racks can and cannot do. So if you refer to the manual of your bike rack while using it, there is nothing to worry about. For odd issues that the manual fails to mention, it’s widely advised that you contact the manufacturer of your bike rack for direct answers. Overall, if your money and your safety happen to be on the line, it’s impossible to be too careful.

You can also find other in-depth reviews and buyer’s guides on Outside RV  category where we provide you the handpicked list of top-rated products on the market with specific reviews, pros and cons to help you easily choose the best products for your needs and preference.

• Best RV Grills
• Best RV Steps
• Best RV Ladders
• Best RV Awning Lights
• Best RV Awnings
• Best RV Slide Out Awnings
• Best RV Folding Tables
• Best Reclining Camping Chairs With Footrest
• Best RV Outdoor Rugs
• Best RV Flag Poles
• Best RV Propane Regulators
• Best RV Propane Tank Gauges

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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The 10 Best RV Bike Rack Options in 2023

Post Updated January 22, 2023.

If you want to enjoy cruising around town on your bike on an RV vacation, you’re going to want the best RV bike rack you can find. Besides being fun, bringing your bikes along is also an ideal way to get around town. It is especially important to brin a bike if you don’t have a tow vehicle. A bike or especially an E-bike is a super nice thing to have when RVing . E-bikes especially make a great gift for RVers .

Obviously bringing bikes RVing is a fantastic idea, but the logistics can sometimes get in the way. Fortunately, there are many RV bike racks that make the process much smoother.  Keep reading to learn what you need to know to choose the best product for your situation.

Can I Put a Bike Rack on an RV?

Thinking about getting a bike rack for your RV? Sounds like fun! Just be sure to get an RV rated bike rack. Regular bike racks aren’t designed for the weight and movement of an RV. If you use one it could potentially cause failure or damage to your bikes, as well as other motorists. So make sure you invest in one that is designed with RV use in mind. There are many best RV bike racks out there, so you’ll be able to find one that fits your needs and budget.

Make Sure Your Rack is Rated for the Weight of Your Bikes

Not all bikes are created equal and not all RV bike racks are either. If you have a heavy-duty bike like a fat tire bike or especially an e-bike, you will definitely need to pay attention to weight rating. Many RV bike racks out there only support around 30 to 40 pounds. An e-bike on the other hand can easily weigh 65 pounds or more. Thankfully there are some excellent e-bike racks out there.

Make Sure It Can Hold the Correct Number of Bikes 

When selecting an RV bike rack, it is important to consider how many bikes you plan on transporting. Most racks are typically designed for either 2 or 4 bikes, so be sure to choose accordingly. You also need to think about the size of your bikes and whether they will fit in the space provided.

Where Do I Mount my Bike Rack on my RV?

There are several options for where to mount your RV bike rack. Your setup will determine what makes the most sense for your situation. 

Ladder Mount Bike Rack

One option is a ladder mount. One major benefit of a ladder mount is that it doesn’t add any additional weight to your hitch. The ladder mount bike racks are also fairly easy to install for those of us who aren’t as handy. The major drawback to ladder mount bike racks is that they usually only hold one or two bikes. The max weight for most of these is 60 pounds, which eliminates them as a possibility for most e-bikes.  From what I have found they are also often made of subpar materials. This quality means they many not stand up to the test of time. JUMP TO THE BEST LADDER MOUNT BIKE RACKS

Bumper-Mount Bike Rack 

RVers also have the option of adding a bike rack to the bumper of the rig. Most bumper-mounted bike racks have more space to bring along up to four bikes. They also generally have a higher weight capacity. Some of them have up to 120-pound or even 150- pound weight capacities. This type of rack is often a better choice for heavier e-bikes. Make sure you have a  metal bumper and double check your owner’s manual to ensure you can safely add a bumper-mounted bike rack. Typically if you have a metal bumper that is at least 4 by 4 inches it can support a bike rack and bikes.

JUMP TO THE BEST BUMPER-MOUNTED BIKE RACKS

Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack 

Another option for where to put your RV bike rack is on the hitch of your RV. If you tow an RV or have a tow vehicle behind your motorhome, you may think you are out of luck. However, you can easily install a dual hitch receiver . 

This will allow you to tow as normal and add a bike rack to the mix. Typically hitch-mounted bike racks can hold greater weight and up to four bikes. Make sure you also purchase the correct bike rake based on your hitch receiver size. There are also some hitch mounted RV compatible bike racks that you can use on the back of your tow vehicle.

JUMP TO THE BEST HITCH-MOUNTED BIKE RV BIKE RACKS JUMP TO THE BEST E-BIKE RACKS

Travel Trailer Tongue Mount RV Bike Rack 

If you are looking for an RV bike rack that is especially tailored to travel trailers, then a frame tongue mount bike rack may be the perfect solution for you. With this type of bike rack, you can typically carry up to two or four bikes on your trailer.

Before you invest in this style of bike rack, however, it is important to check your trailer and tow vehicle’s tongue weight capacity. Once you attach bikes to the frame tongue mount bike rack, that increases the tongue weight. The result? It could be too heavy for your setup.

The frame tongue mount bike rack usually attaches to the trailer tongue frame either through welding or bolting. It can often be more difficult to load and unload the bikes due to its height. So it may help to have an extra hand when you are lifting them up.

Overall, a frame tongue mount bike rack is perfect for anyone looking for an RV bike rack that is specifically designed for travel trailers.

JUMP TO THE BEST TRAVEL TRAILER TONGUE MOUNT BIKE RACKS

Other Considerations For Picking a Bike Rack for an RV

Make sure you can lift your bike to the height needed in order to load your bike rack. It would be a drag to go through all the hassle of mounting a bike rack, only to discover your massive e-bike is too heavy for you to lift. 

Another consideration to keep in mind when purchasing a bike rack is that you get what you pay for. If you buy a cheap bike rack, it probably won’t hold up as long. Pick something made of a sturdy material that is tough enough to accommodate your bikes. In the long run, you’ll probably save money because your bike rack will last longer. 

Always be sure to check the weight of your bike and the weight rating of the bike rack you purchase to ensure the combination will work safely. 

Best RV Bike Rack for Electric Bikes

E-bikes are outstanding for RVers and we see more and more of them around. E-bike racks cost a pretty penny because they ‌hold bikes that are much heavier than traditional road or mountain bikes. However, when you purchase the right bike rack for your electric bike, you can travel with confidence. No need to worry about losing your bike in the middle of the highway. 

HYPERAX Volt Hitch Mounted RV Bike Rack

The best RV approved e-bike rack is the HYPERAX Volt Hitch Mounted Carrier . 

This bike rack is designed with durability and convenience in mind. It can take on up to 70 pounds per bike, meaning even the heaviest of e-bikes can fit securely. With its 4.6 out of 5 star rating on Amazon, you know it is up to the job!

You can also attach this bike rack to a tow vehicle if you have one. That means you can bring your bikes along for any trip. Once you arrive at a campsite you can bring your bikes to and from the trails using your town vehicle. The HYPERAX Volt Hitch Mounted Carrier is the perfect companion for any RV enthusiast who wants a reliable and convenient way to transport their bike!

1Up Super Duty Double RV Bike Rack

Another heavy duty bike rack (that comes with a bit more heavy duty price tag) is the 1Up Super Duty Double . It can carry two e-bikes weighing up to 75 pounds each. It is one of the toughest options out there. The 1Up bike rack also has some added features like an anti-wobble hitch bar that helps keep your bikes safely in place even on bumpy roads. 1Up also makes the rack 100% in America.

Best Ladder Mount Bike Rack 

The ladder mounted bike racks tend not to have as high of ratings as other types of RV bike racks. They aren’t quite as sturdy, however they are affordable and easy to set up. You can’t use these kinds of bike racks with heavier bikes like fat tire or e-bikes. But if you just want to bring along road bikes for the kids it may be a decent choice for your budget. If you decide to purchase this kind of bike rack, there are two top contenders. 

Camco Ladder Mount

The first is the Camco Ladder Mount Bike Rack . Camco makes many quality RV products. This bike rack gets 4.1 out of 5 stars according to Amazon user ratings. It can hold two bikes with a total weight capacity of 60 pounds. Another nice perk is that it folds up for easy storage when not in use. The major concern is quality of materials which is a problem for most ladder mount bike racks. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly way to get your kids’ bikes to the RV park it is a fine option. 

Best RV Bike Rack for Ladder Mounts- Stromberg Carlson Ladder Bike Rack

A second choice ladder mount bike rack is the Stromberg Carlson Ladder Bike Rack . It has a 4.1 out of 5 star rating, just like the Camco. It can also hold two bikes but the max weight is only 50 pounds which is less than Camco offers. Again, the problem here is strength and durability. It can’t hold very heavy bikes so even some nice adult mountain bikes would be off the table for this bike rack. 

Best Bumper Mount Rack 

A bumper mount rack is an ideal choice for many campers. It offers easy access and secure storage of up to four bikes. With so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to choose which one is the best RV bike rack. We’ve taken the time to review and compare some of the top bumper mount bike racks. Now you can make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase one. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option, or something more feature packed, we have the perfect rack for you. Read on to learn more about the best bumper mount bike racks for RVs. 

Swagman RV-Approved 4-Bike Bumper Rack

If you want a bumper mount bike rack for your RV, the Swagman RV-Approved 4-Bike Bumper Rack is the best RV bike rack you can find. It can, as the name implies, carry up to four bikes, each weighing up to 30 pounds. This is one of the best RV bike racks for families with kids. That;s because everyone can bring their bike along. It is easy to install and has a 4.4 out of 5 star rating.  For heavier bikes, like e-bikes and some fat tire or mountain bikes, this rack won’t be able tos upport the weight. So make sure to weigh your bikes before purchasing.

Quick Products QPRBM2R RV Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack 

Coming in a close second with 4.3 out of 5 stars and a much lower price tag is the Quick Products QPRBM2R RV Bumper-Mounted 2-Bike Rack . (don’t ask why they decided to make such a hard to remember name…) 

This bike rack is for use with a 4 to 4.5-inch square bumper. It carries up to two bikes weighing up to 30 pounds each but will NOT work for fat tire bikes. If you only have two bikes, this rack may make more sense than the Swagman bumper mount option. 

Top Hitch Mount Bike Racks

Are you an RV enthusiast looking for the best hitch mounted bike rack? You’ve come to the right place! Here, we’ll discuss some of the top-rated options available on the market today. Before you make a purchase, however, it’s important to remember that not all bike racks are created equal. You can attach some to cars while others are specifically for RVs. So make sure you get the one that’s appropriate for your situation! Everything I recommend here is clear for RV use so keep reading to learn more about hitch mounted RV bike racks.

Swagman TRAVELLER XC2

Looking for a reliable and easy-to-install bike rack? Look no further than the Swagman TRAVELLER XC2 Bike Rack. This versatile rack is designed to hold two bikes up to 35 pounds each. Installation is a breeze and only takes a few minutes when you follow the instructions. 

An added bonus is that you can install it as a bumper mount if desired. Furthermore, you can upgrade the tire tray to accommodate fat tire bikes up to 35 pounds. That way you don’t have to worry about leaving anyone behind on your next biking adventure. With consistently high ratings of 4.5 out of 5 stars, you know the Swagman TRAVELLER XC2 Bike Rack is a reliable choice you can count on. The Swagman TRAVELLER XC2 is more expensive than bike racks for other mounting options. However for hitch-mounted options, it gives you the most bang for your buck.

Hollywood Racks RV Rider Hitch Bike Rack

If you’re an RV enthusiast looking for a reliable way to transport your e-bikes, look no further. Hollywood Racks has the solution for you. The RV Rider Hitch Bike Rack is perfect for motorhomes, 5th wheels and flat-towed vehicles. With its frame grabbers, this bike rack easily accommodates bikes with a diameter range of 1 to 2 inches, eliminating the need for bike adapters. It has a capacity of up to 80 lbs each. That means this bike rack can handle heavier loads than many other RV bike racks. Plus, you’ll have added security with its locking cable and keyed-alike hitch pin feature. This bike rack is not compatible with bumper pull, travel trailers or bumper mounted hitch receivers. The major downside of this bike rack is the price. It is much more expensive than a lot of of other options on the market.

Thule Range

For families of biking enthusiasts looking for an RV bike rack that is tough enough to carry everyone’s bike, there is a great choice for you. Look no further than the Thule Range RV Bike Rack . This amazing bike rack can carry up to four bikes with plenty of space between them. There are 7 inches between each bike so they won’t rub against each other causing damage. 

With a total load capacity of 150 pounds, you can be sure that your bikes will remain securely in place. The maximum individual bike weight is 37.5 pounds, so the Thule Range RV Bike Rack is best for regular bikes. It won’t support the weight of e-bikes or even some fat tire bikes. 

The Thule Range RV bike rack is more secure than ever with its integrated cable lock. This allows you to lock your bikes down when they’re stored on the rack. That way, you can rest assured that no one will be able to take them away. And when you’re not using it? No problem! The arms easily fold down for convenience and storage.

Best A Frame Tongue Mount RV Bike Racks 

If you own a travel trailer, chances are you want to take your bike out on the open road with you. However, finding the best RV bike rack for a travel trailer is difficult as there are surprisingly few RV tongue mount bike racks on the market. Fortunately, there is one that stands above the rest. Keep reading to learn more.

Futura GP for Travel Trailer Tongue 

The Futura GP RV Bike Rack for Travel Trailer Tongue will make sure your bicycle is secure! Compatible with 95% of bikes, you can trust this rack to keep your bike safe while traveling. Plus, when you buy directly from the company, they offer a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. 

With this bike rack there is no need to worry about drilling into the RV frame. There’s a special attachment available to avoid this issue! You can also rest assured knowing that this rack is made in North America with top quality materials. With the Futura GP RV Bike Rack for Travel Trailer Tongue, you can enjoy your RV adventure without having to worry about your bike’s safety. 

Amazon users give it 4.3 out of 5 stars. While this is lower than some other options, you’ll still be getting a quality product if you want or need a tongue mount. 

Tips for Safe Use of a Bike Rack on Your RV

When using even the best RV bike rack to transport your bikes, it’s important to take some basic steps to ensure the safety of all involved.

1. Before installing your RV bike rack, make sure you account for any obstructions such as a ladder.  This will ensure that you have enough space for the bike rack and that installation is safe.

2. Make sure to check all manufacturer specifications before purchasing a bike rack. This includes weight limits, number of bikes it can accommodate, and the size of your RV’s bumper, hitch, tongue, or ladder.

3. Before loading any bicycles onto a rack, always double check that you securely tightened and adjusted all hardware and it didn’t come loose.

4. When not in use, make sure to store your RV bike rack securely in an area away from excess moisture and direct sunlight. 

5. If your RV bike rack is equipped with a locking system, make sure to use it when the bikes are unattended for added security. If it does not have a locking system, use a bike lock to ensure your bikes don’t ride off. 

6. Be sure to properly use the tie down system to attach your bikes to the frame of the bike rack for extra security while driving.

7. Before hitting the road, it’s always a good idea to give your RV bike rack and bicycles a quick visual inspection for signs of wear or damage.  This will help ensure that they are safe to use and will help prevent potential hazards while driving.

8. If you’re not comfortable installing your RV bike rack yourself, consider having a professional do it for added peace of mind.

9. Once you have safely attached the RV bike rack to your bumper, make sure to drive cautiously and at slower speeds than usual. This will help reduce any potential vibrations or impacts to your bikes and bike rack while driving.

10. To minimize vibration of the best RV bike rack, make sure to properly inflate all tires before loading. 

11. Lastly, keep an eye on your RV bike rack while driving to ensure that it and your bikes remains securely attached during travel. 

Following these tips will ensure that you are using your RV bike rack safely and securely. Always make sure to double check all parts of your RV bike rack before each use, including the mounting hardware and any locking mechanisms.

Frequently Asked Questions About RV Bike Racks 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, choosing the right RV bike rack can be tricky. There are quite a few questions you should ask before you invest in one. In this article, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about RV bike racks to help make sure you’re making the right decision for your vehicle and lifestyle.

How Do I Secure my Bike on my RV?

Once you’ve chosen the best RV bike rack for your vehicle and needs, it’s time to get installing. The best RV bike racks make installation easy and straightforward, but there are still a few steps you need to follow carefully. For best results follow these steps in order:

1. Determine where you want the bike rack to place the bike rack on your RV. Be sure to read the instructions for your specific RV bike rack, as some racks may require different placement than others. As discussed earlier, different types of RV bike racks are best for different types of bikes and RVs.

2. Before installation, make sure that the surface you are attaching the rack to is clean and free from any dust or dirt.

3. Securely attach the bike rack to your vehicle or trailer using the appropriate hardware, such as bolts and screws.

4. Place the bikes onto the rack one by one, making sure that they are secure and tightly fit into the rack’s cradles.

5. Make sure you properly fasten all of the straps for securing the bikes so that they won’t come loose during your journey.

And that’s it! With the best RV bike rack installed, you’re ready to hit the open road with your favorite two-wheelers in tow.

Why Does a Bike Rack Need to Be RV Rated?

You need to purchase a bike rack that is RV Approved to keep you and other drivers safe on the road. The reason a bike rack needs to be RV rated is that bike rack moves and bounces around a lot more on the back of an RV than it does on the back of a car. Some RVers have even had non-RV approved bike racks bend significantly and almost lose their bikes during travel. 

Not only would it be a real drag to lose your bike, but you could cause a major accident as well. Do yourself a favor and don’t be tempted by the lure of a cheap car bike rack. The risk simply isn’t worth it. 

How Much does a Good Bike Rack for RVs Cost?

When it comes to investing in a good bike rack for your RV, you get what you pay for. Most decent bike racks will cost at least $70 and up but the top notch models can go up to $700-$800. 

Nonetheless, this is an investment that’s definitely worth making if you plan on taking your bikes with you as you explore the great outdoors. If you purchase a poor quality bike rack, the worst thing that could happen would be that you lose your bikes during travel. Not only would it really suck to lose your bikes but it could cause a serious accident for anyone behind you on the road. You’ll have to make sure that you get one that can handle the weight of your bikes, plus last long enough to provide reliable service for years to come. 

Can I Put Other Things on My RV Bike Rack?

No, you should not put other things on your RV bike rack. Doing so is not advisable because the bike rack is not designed to carry anything besides a bike, and you could risk damaging or overloading it.

That said, Joel and I have seen some people use their RV bike rack as a towel drying rack when they’re parked, which is actually kind of clever! However, we still wouldn’t recommend using the bike rack for anything other than its intended purpose during travel. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

So What is the Best RV Bike Rack?

At the end of the day, choosing the best RV bike rack for your specific needs is a personal decision. Before you purchase any bike rack, consider the mounting options, price, type of bikes you’ll be carrying, number of bikes and maximum weight capacity. Don’t forget to also consider if your RV bike rack is easy to mount/dismount when traveling. With all these factors taken into consideration, you’ll be able to select the best RV bike rack for your needs and enjoy an active, biking lifestyle.

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Kathryn Mancewicz

Kathryn Mancewicz is an RV expert who has been a full time RVer since 2019. She has bylines for her RV related content on major publications including MSN, MSN Canada, and AOL. She has also been featured on Yahoo and quoted on KOA. Kathryn is also a regular RV content writer for Cheapism.

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How to Choose the Best Bike Rack for your Travel Trailer, RV, Motorhome, or Fifth Wheel

Are you looking for an RV-approved rack for your travel trailer, fifth-wheel (5 th   Wheel) or RV? Swagman can help!

We make a variety of bike racks designed for use on travel trailers, RVs, motorhomes and fifth wheels that can safely transport your bikes. From budget-friendly hanging racks to full-featured zero-frame contact platform racks that even support e-bikes, Swagman has a bike rack for your next RV adventure.

Why RV-approved?

Remember back as a kid when you’d sit at the very back of the bus, hoping for the thrilling ride that came along with bumps in the road? That bumpy ride was because of the distance between your seat at the very back and the rear wheels. The longer the distance, the bumpier the ride becomes!

The same forces are at play on a trailer, except instead of fun, it means anything mounted on the rear of your trailer is experiencing significantly more force than it would on the back of a car, truck or SUV. Adding to that, most trailers have less-sophisticated suspension systems, so it can be even rougher than those school bus rides from your youth.

Any bike rack being used on a trailer needs to be engineered to withstand those increased forces to get your bikes to your destination safely. Make sure the bike rack you’re using has been designed, tested, and approved for use on a trailer, RV, motorhome or fifth wheel.

Here at Swagman, we make choosing a rack for this purpose easy — our RV-approved line of racks can all safely be used on the back of any compatible travel trailer or RV. Just look for the RV-approved logo on the rack, packaging, or product listing.

How to Choose the Right RV-approved Bike Rack

If your trailer or RV already has a hitch installed with an adequate weight rating, the first question you need to answer to help choose a rack is what frame material your bikes are.

No hitch? No problem! We sell a   bumper adaptor , an   Around the Spare bike rack   to mount on certain continuously-welded steel bumpers, or an   A-frame front-of-trailer hitch adaptor . As always, make sure to consult your RV or trailer manufacturer instructions to confirm compatibility and load-bearing abilities before purchase and installation.

Carbon Fiber Bikes

If you have a bike made of carbon fiber, you want something called a Zero Frame Contact bike rack. 

Zero Frame Contact Bike Racks for RVs

A Zero Frame Contact bike rack secures your bike to the rack with an arm that grabs the front tire, keeping your frame pristine and untouched. 

*Zero frame contact racks are not compatible with bikes that have front fenders

Non-Carbon Bikes

If you have bikes made of aluminum or other metals, you can use a Zero Frame Contact Rack, Platform Rack, or a Hanging Rack to transport them.*

*Certain frame shapes and sizes may require the use of a   Bar Adapter   for compatibility with Platform or Hanging bike racks. Bikes with front fenders are not compatible with any Zero Frame Contact rack.

Platform Racks

Platform racks have wheel trays to support the wheels. The bike is secured with a frame hook that comes down onto the frame’s top tube, snugly holding your bike in place. Some models have wheel straps for extra security when your bike is installed.

When you place your bike in this type of rack, make sure you adjust the wheel trays to ensure the frame hook contacts the lowest point of your bike’s top tube. Certain frame shapes with an aggressively sloping top tube or step-thru frames require a Bar Adapter to work with these racks.

Hanging Racks

Hanging racks work like the name suggests — by hanging your bike frame from the support arm on the rack. These racks work best with simple bicycle frame shapes. Models with sloping top tubes, step-thru frames, or other non-traditional shapes may require a Bar Adapter for use on a Hanging Rack.

Weight Capacity

Once you know what type of bike rack you’re looking for, you need to consider the weight capacity. If you plan on carrying heavier bikes, including ebikes, look for ebike-approved models, which are designed to handle the increased weight of heavier ebikes.

The weight capacities of all Swagman RV-approved bike racks can vary, so be sure to read the product details before you make your decision.

Clearance and Dimensions

Another consideration for your travel trailer, RV, motorhome, or fifth-wheel is how much horizontal and rear clearance the rack has. Departure angles can be a concern, especially on trailers or RVs where the frame extends far past the rear axle. Consider horizontal clearance if you have a rear-mount spare tire, or a trailer or RV that features a rounded rear, extending further rearward than the bike rack mounting point.

Every Swagman RV-approved rack has a clearance-dimensions graphic in the product images – use this to confirm compatibility.

Other Considerations

Do you need any extra features from your bike rack? There are a variety of convenience features available on select Swagman racks. For increased security, look for racks that include integrated locking hooks. 

If you're planning to transport a fat bike on your trailer, motorhome, RV, or fifth-wheel, make sure your chosen rack is compatible with wider tires. Aftermarket wheel trays compatible with tires up to 5" wide can be purchased separately for select Swagman RV-approved Bike Racks. 

Ready to shop for a bike rack for your travel trailer, RV, motorhome, or fifth wheel? Let us help you get started on our webstore. 

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Travel Trailer Bike Rack Kit

The Arvika Bike Rack 7000 series is the ideal bike storage solution for your travel trailer! Designed with both convenience and durability in mind, this kit allows you to transport your bikes easily and securely wherever you go. Say goodbye to the hassle of trying to fit your bikes inside your trailer or on the roof of your vehicle. With the Arvika bike rack kit, you'll have more space and less stress on your travels. Enjoy your next adventures with this RV approved rack.

Pickup available at 600 Rue Bériault, Longueuil, QC J4G 1S8

Usually ready in 24 hours

Everything you need to know on this product,

Description.

• Protected 360° clamps allow attachment to bike
• Maximum capacity of 200 lbs
• For tires under 2" : Our standard gutter is suitable (Lenght 55")
• For tires between 2" and 4.5": See our  3" gutters (Lenght 60")
• For tires over 4.5": See our  5" gutters (Lenght 60")

What's included

• Reinforcement arms
• Straps (2 per bike)
• Steel trailer mounting bracket
• 7000 series base for 2-4 bikes
• Gutters (depending on number of bikes)
• Bike mounting arms
• Wheel stoppers (2 per kit)

Specification

• Made of aluminum
• Product weight: 55 lbs
• 26" wide hoop base
• 20" long horizontal hoop
• 33" high vertical hoop

Choose our Hitch Adapter option

Our bike rack can even fit on your car. By choosing our trailer hitch adapter based on the size of your hitch, you will be able to use the same bike rack for your trailer and your vehicle!

Start your journey here

Most frequently asked questions

Do you have any other questions? Go to our FAQ page

The standard 7000 series is compatible with a wide variety of trailers such as Forest River, Grand River, Coleman and others. If you have any questions, please contact a product specialist to check compatibility with other models. Either [email protected] or Ricky at the bottom of your screen.

This way, we ensure a better stability of the bikes and avoid possible breakage. There is therefore no risk of losing your bikes when you travel.

No. All you need to do is buy kit 3 or kit 4 depending on the number of bikes you plan to install on your rack. You can buy them on the KIT3 and KIT4 components page.

Attaching the bike rack to the front of your trailer improves the stability and balance of your bikes. This means there is less chance of the bikes swaying and flipping while you are traveling. By distributing the weight of the bikes towards the front of the trailer, it helps to improve the maneuverability and maneuverability of your trailer. Our bike rack for the trailer tongue is designed with the safety of your bikes in mind. We advise you to watch this video to understand the weight distribution of your travel trailer: Pulling a trailer can be dangerous if the weight distribution is not correct

The use of a protective cover for bicycles is strongly discouraged with our trailer bike racks. The cover does not allow air to escape, resulting in excessive pressure on the rack due to the combination of road travel and wind, which can cause breakage and potentially a traffic incident. Our warranty does not cover breakage caused by a protective cover.

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RV Bike Racks: How To Take Your Bike With You Anywhere

If you have a motorized RV , you could always secure your bikes inside while traveling between destinations. And we’ve certainly known owners of new and used travel trailers that transport bikes in the bed of their tow vehicle or on a roof rack.

Toy haulers are perhaps the easiest because they have a garage that can be used for gear storage. But fifth wheels make it tough because the pin box takes up so much space in your truck bed, and your 5th wheel cap needs room to pivot as you go around corners.

While there are ways to transport bikes without a rack, here are the major benefits of RV bike racks : 

• Dedicated bike storage. Don’t worry about having to navigate around bikes that are stored inside your RV if you’re making a one-night rest stop between destinations.
• Increased storage space. Leave the room in your truck bed or toy hauler garage for other travel toys and camping equipment .
• Maintain a clean living space. Avoid bringing dirty bikes inside your RV if you don’t have time to clean them after a muddy ride.
• Less tangling. Bikes stored inside your RV or in a truck bed can shift while driving. Each bike has a dedicated spot with a bike rack, so you don’t have to untangle them when you get to camp.

RV Bike Rack Types

There are four main types of RV bike racks, categorized by how they mount to your RV. It’s fairly straightforward, but here’s a little more about each type of rack.

Ladder-Mount Racks

Ladder-mount racks are best for RVs with permanent rear ladders. They hook over ladder rungs to provide a stable place to transport your bikes. They are a great option for all types of motorized and towable RVs with ladders, and they also allow you to keep your tow hitch free to pull a second vehicle.

Hitch-Mount Racks

Motorhome campers traveling without an extra vehicle, a “toad, ” can still use their RV’s trailer hitch mount. Hitch-mount racks are easy to install in your motorhome’s hitch mount. They come in two-bike and four-bike varieties and can accommodate bike rack covers if you want to protect your bikes from road dirt, moisture, and other potentially harmful elements.

Bumper-Mount Racks

Usually best for travel trailers and fifth wheels that don’t have a rear hitch receiver, these racks mount directly to your trailer’s rear bumper. They appear similar to hitch racks from afar, but they are secured by bolting around your welded bumper rather than inserting them into a hitch.

Trailer Tongue-Mount Racks

This rack type is great for toy haulers and trailers because it mounts on the front of your trailer’s tongue. This placement of a bike rack is out of the way, convenient, and doesn’t block any doors, ladders, or storage areas. It’s also nice to keep an eye on your bikes when you drive. They usually come in the shape of an upright Y and can accommodate two to four bikes.

How to Choose the Right Bike Rack for your RV

Your decision begins with considering the rack types above and deciding which mounting option is best for your RV. Aside from that, here are a few more factors to choose an RV-approved bike rack:

Number of Bikes

For starters, you’ll need a bike rack that can accommodate the number of bikes you hope to bring on your next RV road trip. Most racks carry two or four bikes, so you won’t have much to consider here.

But remember that having more bike storage can come in handy in certain situations. Your RV family might expand in the coming years, or you might plan a road trip with guests who want to bring their bikes along. Or, perhaps you have several bikes of your own: a road bike, a mountain bike, and an e-bike.

If it’s not too much of a price difference between the two-bike racks and four-bike racks, having a rack with more space than you’ll normally use can be useful.

Weight and Weight Capacity

Consider how much weight you’ll be adding to the location of your bike rack and how much your bikes weigh. Some of today’s e-bikes can weigh as much as 80 pounds, which can be a problem for a rack with a maximum capacity of 35 pounds per bike.

When considering a rack’s weight capacity, you can look at the rack’s total capacity or capacity per bike. Knowing the weight of each bike you’ll transport will benefit you. A rack that’s rated for 35 pounds per bike (and a total capacity of 70 pounds) may be able to hold a 50-pound e-bike if your other is a 15-pound road bike.

The weight you add to your RV can impact fuel economy and towing performance. The location of your bike rack makes a difference, particularly with tongue-mounted racks that increase your overall tongue weight, which must be accounted for when calculating how much your vehicle can tow safely .

Rear-mounted racks add weight to the back of your trailer, which may increase trailer sway (if heavy enough). This extra weight should always be factored in when considering how to load your trailer safely .

The last thing to consider is how easy loading and unloading your bikes will be. The hitch-mount racks that extend upward from your hitch require you to lift your bikes to shoulder height (or higher) to load them on.

This can be restrictive for some RVers, but those racks have the benefit of carrying your bikes up higher to minimize the chance of dragging them on the road if you’re pulling into a gas station with a steep entry.

The alternative is the tray-style rack, which sits at the same height as your hitch mount. Loading and unloading bikes from a tray-style rack requires less lifting, but your bikes may ride a little lower behind your RV.

Finally, the Y-shaped tongue-mounted racks are great for maintaining the ease of going in and out of a rear entry trailer or toy hauler. But it might take a little longer to get used to loading and unloading these racks. Additionally, you’ll find it cumbersome to load and unload when your trailer is still connected to your tow vehicle.

How To Install an RV Bike Rack

Fortunately, most RV bike racks are easy to install. They come with instruction manuals that offer simple, easy-to-follow instructions. This is certainly one of those RV upgrades you can do alone, even with minimal experience.

But if you aren’t comfortable installing your new bike rack, you can always schedule an appointment at your nearest Camping World Service Center . Our techs can quickly install your rack, and they might even help you load up your bikes so that you can get back on the road in no time.

Best RV Bike Racks from Camping World

Here are a few of our best-selling RV bike racks:

Best Value Bike Rack: Ladder-Mount Bike Rack

• Number of Bikes: 2
• Weight Capacity: 60 pounds
• Rack Weight: 6.6 pounds

Made for hooking onto RV ladders , this rack is a super affordable way to improve your RV’s bike storage while maintaining your hitch for towing. It’s made of lightweight anodized aluminum, and it’s super easy to install by hooking over your ladder’s rungs and securing it with tie-down straps.

Best Hitch-Mount Bike Rack: Stromberg Carlson 4-Bike Rack

• Number of Bikes: 4
• Weight Capacity: 160 pounds
• Rack Weight: 76 pounds

For those that don’t tow a vehicle behind their RV, this rack can slip right into your hitch mount and secures with a standard hitch pin. It’s a great family bike rack and easily folds up and out of the way when it’s not in use. Plus, the wheel mounts are adjustable to any size bike frame.

Best Bumper-Mount Bike Rack: Swagman Traveler XC2 Bike Rack

• Weight Capacity: 70 pounds
• Rack Weight: 41 pounds

This rack is a great option for travel trailers and fifth wheels without a rear hitch. It mounts right to a 4.5-inch steel RV bumper and features push-button ratchet arms to quickly and easily carry up to two bikes. That removes the need for tie-down straps, and the entire rack folds up for easy storage if you remove it when winterizing your RV .

Best Tongue-Mount Bike Rack: Jack-It Double Bike Carrier System

• Weight Capacity: 80 pounds
• Rack Weight: 25 pounds

Jack-it is one of the industry’s most trusted names if you want a bike rack that secures to the tongue of your trailer. This rack is designed to fit all bike frames and features adjustable wheel cradles with SwayStop straps to secure your bikes while in transit.

Adding a bike rack to your RV is essential if you enjoy two-wheeled transportation once you reach your destination (or just casually pedaling around the campground). It will make storing and transporting your bikes so much easier.

Shop all Camping World bike racks.

Which type of bike rack appeals most to you and your RV lifestyle? Tell us in the comments below!

• Comment (8)

You show a bumper mount bike rack for the travel trailer using a clamp on hitch. I thought those would break the bumper and void the warranty?

Your safest bet is to contact the manufacturer or dealer to inquire about whether a bumper-mount bike rack installation would void any existing warranties.

I bought an e trike to use with my Class C. Then found out that racks shouldn’t be used with RV’s. Is there anything for a trike?

Hi Margaret!

Have you considered an option like this one: https://www.campingworld.com/tow-tuff-ttf-2762acbr-aluminum-cargo-carrier-with-bike-rack-140223.html

I have a recumbent that I would like to take with me when I travel. Is there a rack similar to ones hauling electric scooters that I can adapt to my bike? Thank you for any response.

Best e-bike rack for fifth wheel hands down is Swagman e-rack. It is rated not only for e- bikes but also for trailer mount. 2 bike Rack is rated for 70 lbs. Each bike. The locking hitch pin eliminates any sway and wobble.

I had a Thule and found out the hard way it was not rated for use on a trailer.

Go Swagman!

Any bike rack that holds the bike by a clamp pushing on the frame will eventually over time of bouncing around the back of the RV, scuff up the paint on the bike frame. Use a bike rack that clamps down on the front tire instead. Swagman makes a good model that works in that manner and won’t damage the paint on the bike frame.

Hi Beverly!

I’d invite you to check out our complete collection of RV bike racks: https://www.campingworld.com/active-sport/cycling/bike-racks

Something like this scooter carrier may work, depending on the size of your recumbent: https://www.campingworld.com/mighty-lite-folding-scooter-carrier-78533.html

But I’ve also seen folks adapt multi-bike racks like this one for a single recumbent: https://www.campingworld.com/stromberg-carlson-platform-mount-4-bike-rack-112263.html

Hopefully this helps, but please let us know if you have additional questions!

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Lippert BikeWing Double Bike Rack Carrier for Trailers and Towing Vehicles, 2 Bikes, Adjustable Wheel Cradles, Sway Control Technology, Fits Most Adult, Kids Bicycle Frames, 80 lbs. Capacity - 731137

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• VERSATILITY - The Bike Wing double bike carrier makes it easy for you to haul your gear from on a trailer or your vehicle's hitch
• PROTECTS BIKES - Foam bumpers and the new SwayControl system enhance the rack’s natural stability and protects the bicycle finish
• ENHANCED STABILITY - The adjustable wheel cradles and SwayStop straps secure the bike wheels to the bike carrier for a secure ride
• SECURITY - NoMotion pins minimize wobble and can be padlocked for security
• DOUBLE ADVENTURE - This carrier lets you haul two bikes with a load capacity of up to 80 lbs.

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From the manufacturer

From customizable awning assemblies for your patio, slide out, or windows to upgrades like screen rooms, lighting, Slide Toppers, and smart hardware, our Solera Universal line of awnings and accessories has got you covered.

Entryway Upgrades

Create the perfect entryway for your RV with our selection of premium steps, entry and screen door upgrades, portable patios, handrails, locks, window shades and more!

Leveling And Stabilization

Our team has developed a range of leveling and stabilization solutions to enhance set up for your RV. We’ve made it faster, easier and simpler to get your 5th wheel RV or travel trailer up and running at the campsite.

Product Description

Haul two bikes from your trailer or vehicle's hitch with a Let's Go Aero® Bike Wing™ from Lippert™. This versatile carrier gives you the freedom to choose how you haul your bikes. When combined with a BikeBase™ adapter, you can hook your bike up to a boat, cargo, rental, personal, watercraft or commercial trailer. And when attached to a Bump-It receiver, you can easily haul with your vehicle's hitch.The Bike Wing double carrier comes fully equipped with foam bumpers and the new SwayControl™ system enhance the rack’s natural stability and protects the bicycle finish, adjustable wheel cradles and SwayStop™ straps secure the bike wheels to the bike carrier for a secure ride, NoMotion™ pins to minimize wobble and can be padlocked for security and comes with two extra SwayStop™ pins and rubber straps and the optional Stinger™ attachment assembly.Whether you’re on the road or on the water, Lippert supplies a broad array of premium RV, towing, and marine products designed to enhance all of your recreational pursuits. Our team is committed to always thinking about your next journey — pushing the possibilities of our products and services, all to better your time spent outdoors, whenever, wherever, for years to come.

Product information

Technical details, additional information, warranty & support, what's in the box.

• BikeWing™ Y-Base
• (2) BikeWing™ Arms
• (4) Foam pads
• (6) SwayStop™ pins
• (8) SwayStop™ rubber straps
• (4) SwayControl™ curved bike cradles
• (2) NoMotion™ pins
• (2) flat washers
• (2) lock washers
• (2) snap pins
• (6) cotter pins
• Installation manual

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Best Hitch Mount RV Bike Rack (Travel Trailer & Camper) 2024

What RV Hitch Bike Rack Should I Get For My Camper?

You want to bring your bike on the next camping trip, but where do you put it?

I’ve seen some people just throw their bikes into their travel trailer or RV and head off. But once the bike is used and covered in dust or mud, that method doesn’t seem so great.

Related Product: Protect your bikes during travel with a Team Obsidian Transport Bike Cover (click to view on Amazon)

You aren’t allowed to use just any hitch bike rack behind a camper or trailer. It has to be rated for RV use.

Because of how long RVs are, a lot of force is being put on the back with every bump and turn. Regular bike racks aren’t made to hold up against that extra pressure.

RV approved bike racks usually have a lot thicker parts and a more sturdy design to make up for the added force.

If you put a regular bike rack on the back of your RV, it could end up sagging forward and eventually break off. That’s why you should get an RV bike rack.

Luckily, there are RV approved hitch mount bike racks that can go in the hitch receiver behind your RV or travel trailer.

In this review, I’ll go over some of the best hitch RV bike racks out there that are made for RV use.

The bike racks that go in RV hitch receivers range from upright hanging racks to platform style.

I’ve also included some RV bike racks you can mount over the propane tanks on the front of a travel trailer.

Sometimes that style works better for travel trailers with large back windows.

If none of these are exactly what you are looking for you can check out the best ladder and bumper mounted RV bike racks in this article here (click to view) .

Summary (Links to Amazon)

• Best Hanging – Yakima Long Haul Hanging RV Bike Rack
• Budget Friendly – Hyperax Hanging RV Bike Rack
• Best Platform – Swagman Dispatch Platform RV Bike Rack
• Alternative Option – Tow Tuff Cargo Carrier with Bike Rack
• Best Front Mounted – Futura GP Travel Trailer Bike Rack
• Lightweight – Let’s Go Aero Travel Trailer Bike Rack

Table of Contents show What RV Hitch Bike Rack Should I Get For My Camper? Hitch Receiver RV Bike Racks Reviews & Info 1. Yakima Long Haul Hanging RV Bike Rack 2. Hyperax Hanging RV Bike Rack 3. Swagman Dispatch Platform RV Bike Rack 4. Tow Tuff Bike Rack Cargo Carrier 5. Futura GP Travel Trailer Bike Rack 6. Let’s Go Aero Travel Trailer Bike Rack What To Look For In A Hitch RV Bike Rack Conclusion & My RV Bike Rack Recommendations Frequently Asked Questions About RV Hitch Bike Racks Are hitch RV bike racks better than RV bumper mounted ones? How do I choose a hitch receiver for my RV bike rack? What is the easiest RV hitch bike rack to use?

Best Hanging

Best Platform

Best Front Mounted

Last update on 2024-06-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Hitch Receiver RV Bike Racks Reviews & Info

1. yakima long haul hanging rv bike rack.

Check Price at Amazon

Yakima is a big name in the bike industry. Its products are known for their quality, durability, and design.

The Long Haul is an RV approved hitch bike rack built to withstand bumps, highway speeds, and miles of rough roads.

The rack can hold up to 4 bikes that are secured using Yakima designed SuperCush Zipstrip cradles.

There is also an integrated anti-sway cradle for use when the rack is filled with bikes.

See Also:  RV Truck & Trailer Towing Capacity – How Much Can I Tow?

As a special feature, Yakima has placed a bottle opener at the end of both arms. The hitch fits 2 inch receivers.

The arms of the RV hitch bike rack fold down so you won’t accidentally run into them when not in use.

There is also an SKS cable for locking the rack to the hitch and an integrated cable lock to secure the bikes to the rack.

The RV bike rack weighs 32 lbs and can carry 4 bikes weighing up to 37.5 lbs each.

That’s 182 lbs total the RV bike rack can weigh loaded down.

The Yakima Long Haul RV Hitch Bike Rack is the best of the best when it comes to this style of hitch bike rack for campers.

There are also platform RV bike racks available, but if you like the simple hanging style that can fit a lot of bikes, Yakima is the way to go.

RV Approved

• Holds 4 Bikes
• Arms Fold Down
• Bottle Opener On Arms
• Integrated Bike & Hitch Locks
• Anti Sway Cradles
• May Dent Thin Bike Frames
• Requires Frame Mounted Hitch Receiver

2. Hyperax Hanging RV Bike Rack

Hyperax makes a simple, budget friendly hanging RV bike rack that’s rated to be used behind campers and trailers.

It’s not as fancy as some of the other options in this review, but if it’s used right, it’s a great way to bring up to 4 bikes on your next camping trip.

Each bike spot has rubber cradles that are made to fit different sizes of bike frames perfectly. Each cradle has a simple strap to anchor the bike.

The RV bike rack weighs a very manageable 28 lbs. Being lightweight is one reason to choose a hanging bike rack over a platform one.

Platform bike racks are very heavy and can easily put your hitch receiver over its weight rating.

See Also: 6 Best Oversized Camping Moon Chairs For RV Campers

The Hyperax can take individual bike weights up to 45 lbs and a total of 180 lbs.

Add the weight of the RV bike rack to the total weight capacity to get a 225 lbs total weight.

Make sure your hitch receiver is rated to hold at least 250 lbs if you are going to use this hitch bike rack.

The hitch part fits 2 inch receivers. There’s a 1/2 inch locking pin and a steel cable to secure you bikes included with purchase.

Like most hanging bike racks, the arms can fold down and out of the way.

The Hyperax RV Hitch Bike Rack is a fantastic option for RVers who mostly bring two bikes camping, but want the ability to bring more if necessary.

If you always bring 4 bikes and you travel a lot, you may want to get something a little more heavy duty.

• Lightweight
• 4 Bike Capacity
• High Bike Weight Capacity
• Bike & Hitch Lock Included
• Flimsy Anchor Straps
• No Bike Sway Feature

3. Swagman Dispatch Platform RV Bike Rack

Swagman makes a few RV specific bike racks and products. The Dispatch is one of their best.

It’s a heavy-duty RV approved platform bike rack that weighs 54 lbs on its own and can carry up to 2 bikes weighing as much as 45 lbs each.

That means the entire set-up can weigh as much as 144 lbs.

Because of the overall weight, I suggest using this with a frame mounted receiver instead of a bumper mounted one.

It fits 2-inch hitch receivers and a locking pin is included to lock the rack to the camper.

There are also locking straps to lock the bikes to the rack.

See Also:  The 5 Things You Must Do When A Trailer Starts To Sway

The wheel trays can slide to adjust to the length of different bike frames and can take wheel sizes from 16-29 inches.

There are ratchet straps to secure the wheels to the trays as well as adjustable padded hook clamps to secure the bike frames.

The vertical bar used to secure the bikes folds down in case it’s blocking the view from a rear window or to make the rear of the trailer more accessible

The Swagman RV Dispatch Hitch Bike Rack is a high-quality platform style bike rack.

It’s perfect for those of you who prefer the peace of mind that comes with having bikes sitting on a platform instead of hanging by their frames.

It’s also easier to fit bikes with oddly shaped frames.

The Swagman is very adjustable to fit most bikes and it’s fast and easy to take them on and off.

The only downside is it can only carry two bikes and the rack itself is a little heavy.

• Adjustable Length Wheel Trays
• Integrated Hitch & Bike Locks
• Vertical Bar Folds
• Secure Straps Wheels
• Padded Clamps For Frame
• High Weight Capacity
• Only Fits 2 Bikes

4. Tow Tuff Bike Rack Cargo Carrier

The Tow Tuff cargo carrier is a cool idea for campers because it’s a cargo rack and a bike rack with a very high weight capacity of 500 lbs.

It weighs 62 lbs on its own and if you’re planning on loading it down you are going to want to use a frame mounted 2 inch hitch receiver and not a bumper mount one.

The carrier is 27 inches long 62 inches wide and has a 3 inch lip. The extensions for holding bike wheels are removable.

It’s great for camping because you can put a couple of bikes on it, then load the space leftover with wood or anything else you might need.

See Also:  Best Portable Quiet Inverter Generators For RV Camping

The RV bike rack part can carry up to 4 bikes. If you have heavy E-bikes this is a good option. A tie-down strap is included with purchase.

The Tow Tuff Cargo Carrier with Bike Rack isn’t technically an RV-approved bike rack but that’s because it’s not just a bike rack.

The heavy-duty build of it can withstand being behind a trailer or RV, just make sure the bikes are strapped down extra tight.

The only downside to this style is there’s more risk of the bikes rubbing together as there is no vertical bar to sit between them.

It’s also very heavy even when there isn’t anything loaded onto it.

• Can Carry Cargo & Bikes
• 500 lbs Weight Capacity
• No Vertical Bar For Securing Bikes

5. Futura GP Travel Trailer Bike Rack

This RV-approved platform bike rack is something special.

It only works if you have a bumper or tongue pull travel trailer which makes it unusable for 5th-wheel, van, and motorhome users, but the concept behind it is pretty genius.

Instead of letting your bikes bounce around on the back of your trailer, you can use this kit to mount them on the tongue over the propane tanks instead.

To top it all off, you can transfer it from your trailer to your tow vehicle’s 2 inch hitch receiver and use it as a regular hitch bike rack.

It comes with a 26 inch tall frame that clamps to the A-frame or tongue of the trailer.

The frame sits over the propane tanks and has a receiver on the top you slide the rack into.

See Also:  Best Weight Distribution Hitches With Sway Control

Storing your bikes in front of the trailer not only keeps your bikes safer it also helps with towing.

Having more weight up front makes bumper pull trailers more stable.

The platform hitch mount bike rack is lightweight and made of aluminum.

It has rubber-coated hooks to secure the bikes to the rack and the vertical bar can fold down.

It is compatible with almost all bikes and is 69 inches wide. It can take bike wheels from 20-30 inches and tire widths up to 2.5 inches.

Things that are not included with this RV bike rack are safety cables and hitch pins.

The is a great product for travel trailer owners and a fantastic idea for expensive bikes.

You can see them the entire time you are driving and they don’t get bounced around near as much.

To top it all off you have a very lightweight bike rack for your vehicle when you aren’t using your travel trailer.

• Can See Bikes While Towing
• Has Hitch Receiver For Vehicles
• Pad-Lockable
• No Hitch Receiver Required
• Creates More Wind Resistance
• Must Be Able to Lift Bikes High

6. Let’s Go Aero Travel Trailer Bike Rack

If you really like the type of RV bike rack that goes on the front of a travel trailer, but you want a more lightweight option than the one reviewed above, the Let’s Go Aero might be just what you’re looking for.

The Let’s Go Aero is a hanging bike rack that fits perfectly on the A-frame of a travel trailer.

It has enough clearance to go over propane tanks and its made to fit over electric front jacks.

The design is very simple. There’s the main frame, they call it the Jack-It,  that mounts to the travel trailer via the front trailer jack bolts.

To install the bottom frame you will need to remove the front trailer jack first, then you put on the Jack-It frame, followed by the tongue jack.

This makes it so you don’t need to drill any new holes, and the trailer jack is actually protected by the bike rack.

There are a few features your travel trailer jack must have to use this RV bike rack.

First, it needs to be small enough to fit inside the Jack-It mounting frame.

It’s made specifically to fit a Lippert Power Jack (click to view on Amazon) .

So long as your travel trailer jack is similar to the Lippert, the Let’s Go Aero RV bike rack should be compatible.

If you don’t have an electric jack, now is a good time to install one !

But if you want to keep using the manual jack, the crank has to be facing out, not sideways.

If it’s a side crank this RV bike rack will not work.

Once the frame is installed, the arms of the handing bike rack can be put on top of it.

The bike rack part has cradles on each side to fit two bikes. There are also some anchor straps towards the bottom that will keep the bikes from swaying.

All the straps are the nice rubber kind.

On each arm there are cushions placed strategically to keep it from scratching or damaging the bike frames.

The entire RV bike rack weighs 25 lbs. It can hold up to 80 lbs, two 40 lbs bikes.

As far as design goes, this is one of the best travel trailer bike racks out there.

Even though it’s a simple hanging bike rack, the Let’s Go Aero Travel Trailer Bike Rack has enough straps and padding to keep your bikes safe and secure.

It might be a little difficult to get your bikes up there, especially if you’re hitched to your trailer.

But if you are able to lift your bikes onto a tall hanger, this is a fantastic way to bring bikes camping.

• Very Secure Straps
• Easy Install Over Jack
• Only for Travel Trailer

What To Look For In A Hitch RV Bike Rack

Hitch Receiver Tongue Weight Rating

All hitch receivers are rated to take a certain amount of weight directly on them.

They can pull thousands of pounds, but weight that’s actually on the receiver won’t be that much.

Most frame mounted hitches will be fine with any size of hitch mount bike rack or cargo carrier but it’s always a good idea to check.

Bumper mounted hitch receivers like this (click to view on Amazon) have a much lower tongue weight capacity because they are not mounted directly to the frame.

The bumper on a camper is also not made to carry very much weight.

It’s difficult to find the exact weight capacity of a 4 by 4 inch RV bumper but not going over 150 lbs seems to be what most RVers say.

It’s unsafe to overload hitch receivers and bumpers because they can bend or break while driving.

Make sure you do your research and know how much weight the receiver can take before you load it up.

For more information about tongue weight capacity check out this article .

Individual Bike Weight Limit

If your bike rack has a weight limit of up to 37.5 lbs per bike and it can take up to 4 bikes, that doesn’t mean you can put one bike weighing 60 lbs on the rack, even though it can take up to 150 lbs of bikes.

The bike rack is engineered to take 150 lbs of distributed weight, that’s why the individual bike weight is important.

Total Weight

When choosing an RV bike rack make sure your hitch receiver can take the weight of the bike rack plus the weight of all the bikes it can carry put together.

Most of the bike racks in this review plus all the bikes they can carry doesn’t go over 200 lbs. Except for the cargo rack that can be well over 500 lbs if loaded down to full capacity.

Having a hitch with a tongue weight rating of 350 lbs should be plenty.

Not every hitch mount bike rack will work on an RV, travel trailer, or pop-up camper.

Bike racks on the backs of trailers and RVs take a lot more of a beating and have more force pressed on them than those behind a car or truck.

Because of this, you need to buy a bike rack rated to go on the back of an RV.

If you buy just any old bike rack it may start to wear and bend after a short amount of time and the company will often void the warranty.

It’s safer to buy an RV-approved bike rack than risk dragging your bikes down the road.

Platform style RV hitch bike racks don’t have the same problem as the hanging kind of bike rack with bikes rubbing together while the vehicle is in motion.

Higher-end bike racks, like the best options in this review, have extra cradles and straps in place to stop bikes from swinging around and damaging each other.

Ultra-lightweight road bicycles can get dents in them just from bikes rubbing together on the rack.

Bikes on the back of an RV or travel trailer bounce around even more than when they are on the back of a car or truck.

It’s a concern and something to think about when buying an RV bike rack.

Conclusion & My RV Bike Rack Recommendations

RV bike racks that go into hitch receivers are often the more premium option and for good reason.

They are made with sturdy parts and are mostly made by reputable companies.

The best thing about hitch RV bike racks is they can also be used on any vehicle that has a hitch receiver.

They are multi-use and a great investment for campers who love to ride bikes.

See Also: Best Portable Power Station/Solar Generator For Camping

Best Hanging RV Bike Rack – Yakima Long Haul RV Hitch Bike Rack

Yakima makes amazing, high quality bike racks. There aren’t many companies that compare.

It’s lucky for RVers that they make an RV approved one.

The Yakima Long Haul RV bike rack can hold up to 4 bikes, has lots of space for each.

It uses strong ratcheting straps, and there are locks on it for the bikes and the rack.

It’s going to be the perfect hitch RV bike rack for both your camper and vehicle.

Best Platform RV Bike Rack – Swagman Dispatch RV Hitch Bike Rack

There’s only one traditional platform style hitch bike rack in this review that is RV approved and luckily it’s one of the best.

The Swagman Dispatch has fully adjustable wheel trays, strong but gentle frame clamps, and extra wheel straps for added security.

The rack is built with durable materials that will hold up against anything you put your camper through.

It’s not only a fantastic choice for regular bikes but with a 45 lbs weight capacity for each one, it may also be a great choice for smaller E-bikes.

Best Travel Trailer Bike Rack – Futura GP Travel Trailer Tongue Bike Rack

The Futura GP RV bike rack is not only made to store bikes in front of a travel trailer above the propane tanks, it’s also a hitch bike rack you can put on any vehicle with a receiver.

The great thing about transporting your bikes in the front of your trailer is they have less pressure being put on them from bumps and hills and you can see them from the cab.

It’s a huge bonus if you to worry about your bikes while driving.

This over propane tanks bike rack is built to last with anti-rust aluminum that is durable but lightweight.

It’s the secure and easy to use platform style most people prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions About RV Hitch Bike Racks

Are hitch rv bike racks better than rv bumper mounted ones.

Normally the hitch bike racks are the more premium option when it comes to RV bike racks.

They are nice because you can use them behind both a camper and a car or truck.

Are they going to be the best options for you?

That depends on a couple of things, the main one being does your camper have a hitch receiver?

If it doesn’t and you don’t want to install one there are other options like the front travel trailer bike rack in this review or bumper and ladder mount RV bike racks you can read about in this article here (click to view) .

How do I choose a hitch receiver for my RV bike rack?

There are two kinds of hitch receivers you can get for RV bike racks.

The heavy duty kind that are mounted to the frame of the camper or one that bolts around the bumper.

The bumper style has more limitations than the frame mount kind.

You should never put more than 150 lbs of weight on a 4 by 4 inch RV bumper.

That means if you want a heavy RV bike rack that can hold more than two bikes, you may want to consider getting a frame mounted hitch receiver with a tongue weight rating of at least 300 lbs.

What is the easiest RV hitch bike rack to use?

The platform style like the Swagman Dispatch RV Hitch Bike Rack are the easiest to get your bike on and off of.

The only downside to them is they often weigh more than a regular bike rack.

If you are planning on leaving your RV bike rack on the back at all times this won’t be a big issue.

If you’ll need to move your RV hitch bike rack around, a lighter style like the Yakima Long Haul RV Hitch Bike Rack will be easier remove, but it takes a little more time to put bikes on.

Have questions about hitch RV bike racks? Leave a comment below.

1 thought on “Best Hitch Mount RV Bike Rack (Travel Trailer & Camper) 2024”

I’m using Saris 3 trunk rack to carry three bicycles on a 4-door Toyota Corolla. After my last ride, I found out that the trunk door wasn’t fitting the trunk well, and was actually shifted by about 1 inch from where it is supposed to be. The repairman claimed that the arm carrying the trunk door has slightly changed shape because of the weight of the bicycle, and recommended not to use such carrier anymore.

Have you heard of a similar case before? I’m carrying three reasonable-weight bicycle, all hard tail, no electronics.

I love using the Saris trunk rack, and would like to find solutions to allow me to use that. My repairman suggested using a single bar roof rack, and mount the top straps or the Saris rack to it, such that the major weight moment will not hit the trunk door’s arm anymore.

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7 Best Bike Racks For Travel Trailers [2023]

Having a travel trailer is a great way to explore. But, an even better way to explore when you’ve parked up your trailer is by bike. However, you may be thinking what’s the best way to transport your bikes when you’re traveling with your travel trailer?

Of course, you can throw your bikes inside, but securing your bikes inside your trailer so they don’t move around can be tricky. Plus they’ll just be in the way if you plan on using your trailer during a short stop. Never mind the dirt after a wet ride!

This is where the best bike racks for travel trailers come in. The best travel trailer bike racks allow you to hitch up your bikes so that you can transport them safely and securely to your destination.

But with so many bike racks available, how do you choose the best bike rack for travel trailers? To help you on your way, we’ve put together a list of the best bike racks for travel trailers on the market today. So keep on reading for our top picks

Table of Contents

Best Bike Racks for Travel Trailers This Year: Our Criteria and Results

The best bike racks for travel trailers come in 3 different types, hitch bike racks, bumper bike racks and, if your trailer has one, ladder bike racks. While there are many of each type available you need to make sure they are compatible with your trailer before you buy.

Most RV rated racks are compatible with travel trailers, but not all. So fortunately for you, the following list gives you some great options of the best bike racks for travel trailers. 

So there you have our top picks, but keep reading for all the details about how we made this selection.

How We Select The Best Bike Racks For Travel Trailers

While there are many different bike racks available today, if you are looking for the best bike rack for your travel trailer there are certain things to consider. The most important factors include, but are not limited to the following:

Type Of Bike Rack For Your Travel Trailer

Your trailer bounces around a lot more than the vehicle you drive, which creates extra stress on a bike rack. That’s why you need to use a bike rack that is specifically rated for RVs, travel trailers, or 5th wheel campers.

These include hitch bike racks, bumper bike racks and ladder bike racks, which work only if your trailer has a ladder installed. The best type for you will depend on your needs and the compatibility with your travel trailer.

Number Of Bikes You Plan To Carry

Each of the racks listed have a specific number of bikes they are designed to carry, from 1 up to 4 bikes. Having an idea of how many bikes you want to transport is a major factor when making your choice.

Overall Weight Capacity

Make sure you know the weight limit of each rack and the weight of the bikes you plan to carry. Each rack will have a specific weight limit – you really don’t want to overload your rack as an overloaded bike rack could fail, resulting in damage to both your bikes and your trailer.

Design & Ease Of Use

The different types and brands of bike racks for travel trailers have different ways to attach to your trailer and to load your bikes. Some are more simple than others. We look at the design and quality of each rack and its components, and how quick and easy it is to install.  

Ensure that the bike rack you select has a secure locking system to keep your bikes safe while traveling. Some brands and models include a locking system, whereas others you will need to buy your own cables and locks.

Customer Reviews

While the team here at Mudbike test most of the bike racks ourselves, we also take into account customer reviews across a number of the most popular cycling websites. Afterall, who better to get the dirt from than the very riders themselves.   

If you use our criteria as a reference then you should have no problems choosing the best bike rack for your travel trailer. So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the best travel trailer bike racks that made it onto our list.

Best Bike Racks for Travel Trailers [2023]

The first place to start when looking for the best bike racks for travel trailers is to consider the type of trailer you have and which type of rack will be compatible.

Bumper bike racks, as the name suggests, attach to the bumper of your travel trailer and are suitable for carrying one or two bikes. They are lightweight and easy to install but may not be as sturdy as other types of bike racks.

Hitch bike racks attach to the hitch receiver on your travel trailer (if it has one) and can carry 1, 2, 3 or more bikes. They are easy to install and remove and are suitable for most travel trailers. However, you will need to watch the weight distribution on your trailer.

Ladder bike racks attach to the ladder on your travel trailer and can carry one or two bikes. They are easy to install and remove and are a good and generally affordable option if you have a ladder on your travel trailer.

Best Bike Rack for Travel Trailer Option: Swagman TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack

The Swagman TRAVELER XC2 is a hitch-mounted bike rack specifically designed for RV and travel trailer use. It can carry up to two bikes and has a maximum weight capacity of 35 lbs per bike.

Advantages:

• Compatible with a 2″ Class 3 hitch receiver or mounts to a 4.5″ continuous steel welded RV Bumper
• Works with bike tires from 20” to 29” in size.

Disadvantages:

• Locking hitch pin and security cable sold separately
• Can be tricky to install

One of the key features of the TRAVELER XC2 is its RV and trailer approved design which is compatible with various sizes of trailers & campers. Plus it’s a hybrid bike rack that works with either a 2” hitch or it can also be secured to a 4.5” steel-welded bumper. 

Another advantage of the TRAVELER XC2 is its adjustable wheel hoops, which can accommodate a variety of bike sizes and styles weighing up to 35 lbs each. The rack also features ratcheting arms that securely hold the bike frames in place.

Overall, the Swagman TRAVELER XC2 is a well-designed and durable bike rack that is ideal for RV or travel trailer use.

Like this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.

But don’t jump in and buy the first one! Keep reading for some more options.

Best Value Bike Rack for Travel Trailer Option: Quick QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack

Quick Products might not be as well known as some of the other bike rack brands, but if you’re looking for a budget option then look no further. The Quick QPRBM2R is a bumper mounted bike rack designed for use on trailers and RVs and can carry up to two bikes.

• Super affordable
• Quick and easy to install
• Doesn’t fold away when not in use
• Only carries 2 bikes weighing up to 30 lbs each

One of the key features of the QPRBM2R is its lightweight and compact design. It is easy to install and remove, making it a convenient option for use with travel trailers with a 4″ to 4.5″ square bumper.

Other features include adjustable cradles that can accommodate wheels up to 29”, but please note, the weight limit is only 30 lbs per bike. However, it does allow you to adjust the tire slots so that it can accommodate bikes of many different lengths, even tandems!

The Quick QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack is an affordable option for those who want a lightweight and easy-to-use bike rack. However, its design may not be suitable for all types of bumpers, so make sure you check its compatibility with your trailer before you buy.

So if you’re looking for the best budget option, click on the link below for the latest price.

Or keep reading for some more options.

Honorable Mention Bike Rack for Travel Trailer: Let’s Go Aero – 429756 Jack-It Double Bike Carrier System

While Let’s Go Aero is another lesser known bike rack brand, the company has been coming up with all kinds of innovative travel carriers and accessories since 1998. Their unique Jack-It Bike Carrier System might just be the solution you are looking for.

• Attaches to the front of your trailer freeing up space in the rear
• SwayControl system protects your bikes
• Bikes need lifting relatively high to load

The beauty of this rack is that it doesn’t require a ladder, hitch, or bumper for secure installation. Instead, it secures to the tongue of your travel trailer in between the trailer and the vehicle you’re towing, freeing up space in the rear.

The Jack-It is designed to fit most A-frame travel and cargo trailers and is compatible with all bike frames. And by installing it on the tongue of your trailer, this rack will experience much less bounce than a rack installed on the back of your trailer.

Plus this carrier system can hold up to two bikes and offers a maximum weight capacity of 80 lbs or up to 40 lbs per bike. And it secures your bikes by the wheels so there is no risk of any damage to the frames.

Sound good? Then click on the link below for all the details.

Or keep reading for our next option.

Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack

Camco has been making quality outdoor products and accessories since 1966. Their Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack easily installs onto standard RV ladders and holds up to 2 bikes with a maximum combined weight of 60 lbs.

• Easily installs onto standard RV ladders
• Lightweight rack that folds for easy storage
• Reports that this rack feels flimsy
• Maximum weight limit only 60 lbs

The Camco RV Ladder Mount bike rack features “Form-Fit” cradles that securely hold your bikes in place, and the supplied straps provide added security. It also has soft grip handles and locking pins to keep it in place. 

This bike rack will securely hold 2 bikes and there is enough distance between them to limit any contact. Another bonus feature is that it only weighs 8.2 lbs and it folds for easy storage. But please note that it may not be compatible with some smaller framed bikes.

The only downside we can see is if your ladder is on the side of your travel trailer, the bikes will stick too far out. But if your ladder is on the back of your trailer then there’s no problem at all.

But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below for all the details and the latest price.

Still not found what you’re looking for? Then keep reading, we’ve still got more to come.

Swagman RV Approved 2 Bike Bumper Bike Rack

The Swagman RV 2 Bike Bumper Rack is a popular choice for travel trailers and RVs due to its affordability and easy installation. The rack can hold up to two bikes and fits most 4” – 4.5” continuous welded steel bumpers.

• Heavy duty steel construction
• Specifically designed for use with travel trailers, 5th wheelers and RVs
• Maximum load only 2 bikes weighing up to 30 lbs each
• Some reviewers complain of poor quality

This rack is made from heavy duty steel and has a powder-coated finish to prevent rust and corrosion. Despite this, some reviews complain of the rack rusting after a few months. However, at less than 1 lb it’s a lightweight rack that is easy to install.

The Swagman RV Bumper Rack consists of 2 individual wheel holders that are installed separately and adjust to fit different bike frame sizes. It is installed with 6.5″ and 8″ long bolts around your travel trailer’s steel bumper, so it’s not going anywhere.

The wheel holders have 2 slots each so that you can carry 2 bikes, but the weight limit is a maximum of 60 lbs. It doesn’t come with any straps or locks so if you want to secure your bikes from theft you will need to purchase straps and a locking mechanism separately.

Not your thing? Then keep reading for another good option.

YAKIMA LongHaul Premium Hitch Bike Rack for RV and Travel-Trailer

Yakima needs no introduction as a premier bike rack brand and their LongHaul Premium Hitch Bike Rack lives up to their reputation. The LongHaul is a bike rack designed, built, and tested to stand up to the long miles and rigorous demands of travel trailer use. 

• Can carry up to 4 bikes
• Maximum weight capacity 37.5 lbs per bike
• At 32 lbs this rack is the heaviest on the list

The Yakima LongHaul is a hanging hitch mount rack that can carry up to 4 bikes. One of the standout features of the Yakima LongHaul is its adjustable cradles, which can be moved to accommodate different bike sizes, including kids’ bikes and fat tire bikes. 

The SuperCush ZipStrip™ cradles also protect your bikes from any damage during transport and the anti-sway cradle design holds your bikes in place and minimizes any bike-to-bike contact.

Plus this rack comes with a full SKS (Same Key System) security package –  a HitchLock locks the rack to your travel trailer and a LockDown cable secures your bikes to the rack giving you extra peace of mind.

The price is a bit on the high side, but click the link below to check – your budget might just stretch that far.

Or carry on reading for our final option.

SURCO 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack

Surco is a family-owned American company that makes all kinds of racks and accessories. Their SURCO 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack ticks all the boxes but unfortunately doesn’t get the best reviews.

• Pivoting arms allows use of the ladder even with the rack installed
• Doesn’t need straps to install
• Can only be used with a 1” tube ladder
• At just under 4 lbs it’s a bit too lightweight

Overall, we were quite impressed with the SURCO 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack . It’s a great solution for anyone who wants to take their bikes on the road without sacrificing precious cargo space inside your travel trailer. 

It’s easy to install, feels pretty sturdy, and holds the bikes securely in place with rubber straps and padded cradles without the need for adding extra straps. Plus it’s advertised to fit on any RV or van ladder. Sounds good right?  

Well, that’s where the buck stops. There are many complaints that this ladder bike rack does not fit any ladder, even a SURCO ladder which is the same brand! It’s advertised to fit any ladder, but the small print says it only fits ladders with 1” tubes, and that’s why we don’t recommend this one.

However, if you have a 1” tube ladder on your travel trailer then it’s worth a shot. So click on the link below for more details and the latest price.

So there you have our top picks. Still unsure which one to buy? Then keep reading for our final results.

Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Bike Racks for Travel Trailers Per Section

So, which is the best bike rack for your travel trailer? Only you can decide as per your needs. However, the following table lists our top picks.

There are clearly a lot of bike racks for travel trailers in the market today, but we’ve identified the best price points from each brand so you don’t have to. 

Make sure you click on the link of the bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price because you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.

People Also Ask

Can i put a bike rack on my travel trailer.

Yes, you can put a bike rack on your travel trailer. However, because of the extra forces involved, the bike rack you use needs to be designed to handle the increased stress. 

So always make sure the bike rack you choose is designed, tested, and approved for use on a travel trailer.

Where do you store bikes in a travel trailer?

If you have the space, of course, you can store your bikes inside a travel trailer. These days some travel trailers and RVs even come with “gear garages” that are large enough to not only store your bikes, but to also work on them too.

However, if your travel trailer is on the small side, it will be difficult to store your bikes in a travel trailer as they will be difficult to secure, constantly in the way, and will bring all kinds of dirt and debris inside.

Can you put a bike rack on the back of a camper trailer?

Yes, you can put a bike rack on the back of a camper trailer, but the type of rack you use will depend on your travel trailer. If you have a hitch fitted then you can use a hitch mount bike rack, no problem.

Otherwise, you will need to check the strength and size of your bumper to see if a bumper rack will work and if you have a rear facing ladder then a ladder bike rack will also work.

Can you mount a bike rack to a camper bumper?

Yes, you can mount a bike rack to a camper bumper as there are specific bumper bike racks that are designed especially for this. These racks use U-bolts or mounting plates to clamp around your travel trailer’s bumper. 

However, it’s important to make sure that your travel trailer’s bumper can handle the weight of a bumper bike rack. Typically, this means your bumper should be continuous welded steel that measures 4″ x 4″. 

It’s good to note that aluminum or spot welded bumpers will not handle the extra weight of a bumper rack plus your bikes. 

Make sure you click on the link of the bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price, because you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.

Jo Charnock — Mud Bike Writer

Jo biked overland from Cairo to Cape Town on a folding bike, then set up a bike shop selling Dahon folding bikes in South Africa when she got home and opened a MTB tour company in Zanzibar. She resides in Cape Town or Zanzibar, where she has been writing professionally since 2018.

Read Jo Charnock’s Full Writer Bio

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Bike Racks for Pop Up Campers: Top Options for Secure Transportation

I f you’re planning a camping trip with your pop-up camper, you’re likely considering the best way to bring your bikes along for the ride. Fortunately, there are several bike racks designed to fit pop-up campers, making it easy to transport your bikes safely and securely. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top bike rack options for pop-up campers, including bumper-mounted, tongue-mounted, and roof-mounted racks.

One of the most popular bike rack options for pop-up campers is the bumper-mounted rack. These racks attach to the rear bumper of your camper and can typically hold up to four bikes. They’re easy to install and remove, making them a convenient option for campers who want to bring their bikes along for the ride. However, it’s important to note that bumper-mounted racks can add extra weight to your camper, so it’s important to ensure that your bumper is strong enough to support the weight of the rack and bikes.

Another option for pop-up camper bike racks is the tongue-mounted rack. These racks attach to the front of your camper’s tongue and can hold up to two bikes. They’re a great option for campers who want to keep their bikes out of the way and easily accessible. However, tongue-mounted racks can also add extra weight to your camper, so it’s important to ensure that your tongue is strong enough to support the weight of the rack and bikes.

Understanding Pop Up Campers

Basics of pop up campers.

Pop up campers, also known as tent trailers, are a popular choice for camping enthusiasts who want to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing the comforts of home. These trailers are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to tow and maneuver on the road. When parked, they can be expanded to provide additional living space, including sleeping areas, kitchenettes, and even bathrooms.

Pop up campers are typically made with a soft-sided canvas top that can be raised or lowered using a crank or electric motor. They are also equipped with collapsible frames that can be folded down for easy storage and transport. Some models even come with off-road capabilities, allowing them to be taken on more rugged terrain.

Importance of Bike Racks

Bike racks for pop up campers come in a variety of styles, including tongue-mounted, bumper-mounted, and roof-mounted options. Tongue-mounted bike racks are designed to attach to the front of the trailer, while bumper-mounted racks attach to the rear bumper. Roof-mounted racks, as the name suggests, are mounted on the roof of the trailer.

If you’re planning on taking your pop up camper on a camping trip, it’s important to consider how you’ll transport your bikes. While some pop up campers come with built-in bike racks, others require additional accessories to safely and securely transport your bikes.

When choosing a bike rack for your pop up camper, it’s important to consider factors such as weight capacity, ease of installation, and compatibility with your specific model of camper. By investing in a high-quality bike rack, you can ensure that your bikes are transported safely and securely, allowing you to enjoy all the outdoor adventures that your pop up camper has to offer.

Types of Bike Racks

When it comes to transporting bikes with your pop up camper, there are three main types of bike racks to consider: roof-mounted, rear-mounted, and hitch-mounted. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Roof Mounted Bike Racks

Roof-mounted bike racks are a great option for those who want to keep their bikes out of the way and have plenty of room on the ground. These racks attach to the roof of your pop up camper and allow you to transport your bikes safely and securely.

One major advantage of roof-mounted bike racks is that they don’t take up any space on the ground, leaving plenty of room for other gear. However, they can be difficult to install and remove, especially if you have a tall pop up camper. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure your bikes are securely fastened to the rack to avoid any damage or accidents while driving.

Rear Mounted Bike Racks

Rear-mounted bike racks attach to the back of your pop up camper and can be a great option if you don’t have a lot of roof space or if you want easy access to your bikes. These racks are generally easy to install and can be removed quickly when not in use.

One advantage of rear-mounted bike racks is that they are easy to access, making it simple to load and unload your bikes. However, they can be heavy and bulky, which can make them difficult to maneuver. Additionally, they can block your view when driving, which can be a safety concern.

Hitch Mounted Bike Racks

Hitch-mounted bike racks attach to the hitch on the back of your pop up camper and are a popular option for many campers. These racks are easy to install and can be removed quickly when not in use.

One major advantage of hitch-mounted bike racks is that they are easy to access and can be used with a variety of different vehicles. Additionally, they don’t take up any space on the roof of your pop up camper, leaving plenty of room for other gear. However, they can be heavy and bulky, which can make them difficult to maneuver. Additionally, they can block your view when driving, which can be a safety concern.

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a bike rack for your pop up camper, there are several key features to keep in mind. These features include weight capacity, ease of installation, security features, durability, and material. In this section, we will discuss each of these features in more detail.

Weight Capacity

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a bike rack for your pop up camper is the weight capacity. You need to ensure that the rack you choose can safely support the weight of your bikes. Most bike racks have a weight capacity of between 2 and 4 bikes, with a weight limit of around 30-40 pounds per bike. It’s important to check the weight capacity of the rack you’re considering and make sure it meets your needs.

Ease of Installation

Another important factor to consider is the ease of installation. You don’t want to spend hours trying to figure out how to install your bike rack. Look for a rack that is easy to install and comes with clear instructions. Some racks require drilling or modification of your camper, so make sure you’re comfortable with the installation process before making a purchase.

Security Features

When you’re traveling with your bikes, you want to make sure they’re secure. Look for a bike rack that has good security features, such as locking mechanisms or straps to hold your bikes in place. Some racks even come with locks to secure your bikes to the rack and prevent theft.

Your bike rack will be exposed to the elements and rough roads, so it’s important to choose a rack that is durable and can withstand the wear and tear of travel. Look for racks made from sturdy materials like steel or aluminum, and check reviews to see how well they hold up over time.

Finally, consider the material of the bike rack. Steel racks are sturdy and durable, but they can be heavy and prone to rust. Aluminum racks are lightweight and rust-resistant, but they may not be as durable as steel. Consider your needs and preferences when choosing the material of your bike rack.

In summary, when selecting a bike rack for your pop up camper, consider the weight capacity, ease of installation, security features, durability, and material. By keeping these key features in mind, you can find a bike rack that meets your needs and ensures a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Top Bike Rack Brands for Pop Up Campers

When it comes to choosing a bike rack for your pop up camper, it’s important to choose a brand that is known for quality, durability, and ease of use. Here are three of the top bike rack brands for pop up campers:

Thule is a well-known brand in the bike rack industry, and for good reason. They offer a wide variety of bike racks for pop up campers, including roof-mounted, hitch-mounted, and trunk-mounted options. Thule bike racks are known for their durability and ease of use, making them a popular choice among pop up camper owners.

Another top brand in the bike rack industry is Yakima. They offer a range of bike racks for pop up campers , including hitch-mounted and roof-mounted options. Yakima bike racks are known for their versatility and ease of use, making them a great choice for pop up camper owners who want a reliable and easy-to-use bike rack.

Swagman is a popular brand among pop up camper owners, offering a range of bike racks that are designed specifically for pop up campers. They offer hitch-mounted and bumper-mounted options, as well as bike racks that can be mounted on the front of your pop up camper.

Swagman bike racks are known for their durability and ease of use, making them a great choice for pop up camper owners who want a reliable and easy-to-use bike rack.

No matter which brand you choose, it’s important to do your research and choose a bike rack that is compatible with your pop up camper and meets your specific needs. With the right bike rack, you can easily transport your bikes on your next camping adventure.

Installation Guide

Installing a bike rack on your pop-up camper can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and some basic knowledge, it can be a simple and straightforward process. Here are some steps to follow to ensure a successful installation:

Choose the right bike rack: Before you start installing a bike rack on your pop-up camper, you need to choose the right one. Consider the type of bikes you want to transport, the number of bikes you want to carry, and the weight of the bikes. Look for a bike rack that is specifically designed for pop-up campers, as they are built to withstand the unique conditions of camping.

Determine the mounting location: The next step is to determine the mounting location for your bike rack. Most pop-up campers come with a hitch receiver, which is the most common location for mounting a bike rack. However, if your camper doesn’t have a hitch receiver, you can mount the bike rack on the roof or on the front of the camper.

Install the bike rack: Once you have chosen the right bike rack and determined the mounting location, it’s time to install the bike rack. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, making sure to tighten all bolts and screws securely. Use a torque wrench to ensure that all fasteners are tightened to the correct specifications.

Test the bike rack: After installing the bike rack, it’s important to test it to make sure it’s secure and stable. Load your bikes onto the rack and make sure they are securely fastened. Take a test drive around the block to make sure the bikes don’t wobble or sway.

Regular maintenance: To ensure your bike rack lasts for many camping trips, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. Check the bolts and screws periodically to make sure they are tight. Lubricate moving parts to prevent rust and corrosion. And always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for care and maintenance.

Overall, installing a bike rack on your pop-up camper can be a simple and easy process if you follow these steps and choose the right bike rack for your needs. With a little bit of effort, you can transport your bikes safely and securely on your next camping trip.

Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance of your pop-up camper bike rack is essential to ensure its longevity and functionality. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Regular cleaning: Dirt, debris, and road grime can accumulate on your bike rack during your travels. Regular cleaning can help prevent rust and corrosion. Use a mild soap and water solution to scrub the rack, and rinse it thoroughly with a hose. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the finish.

Inspect before each use: Before you load your bikes onto the rack, take a few minutes to inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. Look for cracks, rust, loose bolts, or missing parts. Tighten any loose bolts and replace any damaged parts before using the rack.

Proper loading: Make sure to load your bikes onto the rack properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for securing the bikes, and make sure they are evenly distributed to prevent the rack from becoming unbalanced.

Secure the rack when not in use: When you’re not using the bike rack, make sure to secure it properly. Some racks can be locked to prevent theft. If your rack doesn’t have a locking mechanism, consider using a cable lock or other security device.

Store the rack properly: When you’re not using the bike rack, store it in a dry, covered area. This will help prevent rust and corrosion and extend the life of the rack.

By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your pop-up camper bike rack stays in good condition and provides safe and reliable transportation for your bikes.

Final Thoughts on Bike Racks for Pop Up Campers

Choosing the right bike rack for your pop-up camper is essential for a successful camping trip. You need to consider the type of camper you have, the number of bikes you want to carry, and the type of bikes you have.

The best bike racks for pop-up campers are hitch-mounted racks that fit into the hitch receiver of your camper. They are easy to install and remove, and they offer a secure and stable way to transport your bikes.

Our top picks for the best pop-up camper bike racks are the ProRac Tent Trailer Bike Rack, the Swagman Bike Rack, the CURT Clamp On Trailer Hitch Bike Rack, the Swagman Traveler XC2 Bike Rack, and the Pro-Series Reese Eclipse 4 Bike Rack. These bike racks offer different carrying capacities, mounting options, and features to suit your needs.

Remember to always check the weight limit of your bike rack and make sure it can handle the weight of your bikes. Also, make sure your bikes are properly secured to the rack before hitting the road.

Investing in a quality bike rack will ensure that your bikes arrive safely and securely at your destination, so you can enjoy the great outdoors without any worries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to haul bikes with a pop-up camper.

When it comes to hauling bikes with a pop-up camper, there are a few options available. One of the most popular options is to use a hitch-mounted bike rack. These racks attach to the back of your camper’s hitch and allow you to transport your bikes safely and securely.

Another option is to use a roof rack. Roof racks are a great option if you have limited space on the back of your camper or if you want to keep your bikes out of the way while you’re driving.

What are some good pop-up camper hitch options for carrying bikes?

Some good pop-up camper hitch options for carrying bikes include the Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack, the Yakima RidgeBack Hitch Bike Rack, and the Thule T2 Pro XT Hitch Bike Rack. These racks are all designed to fit on the back of your camper’s hitch and can carry multiple bikes securely.

What are some reliable pop-up camper roof rack options for bikes?

If you’re looking for a reliable pop-up camper roof rack option for bikes, consider the Yakima Jetstream Crossbars or the Thule Aeroblade Roof Rack System. These roof racks are both designed to fit a variety of pop-up camper models and can carry multiple bikes safely and securely.

What are the features of the Prorac bike rack?

The Prorac bike rack is a popular option for pop-up camper owners. This rack is designed to fit on the tongue of your camper and can carry up to two bikes. It features a lightweight aluminum construction, adjustable wheel holders, and a locking mechanism to keep your bikes secure while you’re on the road.

How to build a DIY roof rack for pop-up campers?

Building a DIY roof rack for your pop-up camper can be a great way to save money and customize your setup. To build a DIY roof rack, you’ll need to measure the dimensions of your camper’s roof and purchase the necessary materials, such as aluminum bars and brackets. You can then attach the bars to the brackets and secure them to your camper’s roof using bolts and screws.

What are the benefits of the Prorac RVPB-020-1 2-bike carrier tent trailer bike rack?

The Prorac RVPB-020-1 2-bike carrier tent trailer bike rack is a great option for pop-up camper owners who want to transport their bikes safely and securely. This rack is designed to fit on the tongue of your camper and can carry up to two bikes.

It features a lightweight aluminum construction, adjustable wheel holders, and a locking mechanism to keep your bikes secure while you’re on the road. Additionally, the Prorac RVPB-020-1 is easy to install and can be used with a variety of pop-up camper models.

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The post Bike Racks for Pop Up Campers: Top Options for Secure Transportation first appeared on Crazy Camping Girl .