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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.

Swagman E-SPEC

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

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

Yakima LongHaul

  • 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

Yakima LongHaul

3) Swagman Dispatch rack

RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack

Swagman Dispatch

  • 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

Swagman Dispatch

# Bumper Mount Bike Rack

4) Swagman RV Approved 2-Bike Bumper Rack

Excellent Bumper-Mount Rack for 2 Bikes

Swagman 2-Bike Bumper Rack

  • 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

Swagman 2-Bike Bumper Rack

5) Swagman RV Approved 4-Bike Bumper Rack

Heavy-Duty Bumper-Mount Rack for 4 Bikes

Swagman 4-Bike Bumper Rack

  • 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

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

Swagman Around the Spare Deluxe

  • 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

Swagman Deluxe Bike Rack

# Ladder Mount Bike Rack

7) Swagman Ladder Rack

Decent Ladder-Mount Bike Rack for Your Trailer

Swagman Ladder Rack

  • 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

Swagman Ladder Rack

8) Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack

Another Great Ladder-Mount Bike Rack for Your Trailer

Camco Ladder Mount Bike Rack

  • 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

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

Swagman Traveler XCS2

  • 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

Swagman Traveler XCS2

# Tongue Mount Bike Rack

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

Provides Fine Jack Clearance

Jack-It (429756)

  • 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 (429756)

Jack-It Bike Rack

# Tongue Mount Bike Bunk

11) Stromberg Carlson CC-275 Bike Bunk

Offers Stability of Your Rack to Carry 2 Bikes

Stromberg Carlson CC-275

  • 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

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…

Dion Lewis

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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RV Bike Rack

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

Aaron Richardson

  • Last Updated: February 28, 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

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

41CY2HgMLyL. SL350

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

41P2Zo+IQKL. SL350

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

31+NLjJeiEL. SL350

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

31vf+vKjh3L. SL250

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

31zTQewIbXL. SL350

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

41d+j1CQs+L. SL350

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

31BQHnpWsqL. SL350

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!

Aaron Richardson

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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10 Best RV Bike Racks for Safe Transportation (Spring 2024)

The RV is the ultimate adventure vehicle. Life is about exploration, and there’s no better way to hit the road than with an RV, whether it’s a weekend camping trip, cross-country road trip, or a full-on summer adventure. With that said, RVs aren’t the most efficient way to travel short distances. For quick trips for supplies, a bike is your best friend. On top of that, biking is a great way to improve your overall health Trusted Source Biking your way to better health: How to reboot your workout routine - CNN Cycling offers all the mental and physical health benefits of other forms of cardio, including weight loss, without many disadvantages. edition.cnn.com .

And instead of leaving your trusty two-wheeler behind on your next adventure, why not take it with you on an RV bike rack? Many campers and adventure-seekers have to choose between leaving their bike behind or stuffing it in an already cramped RV. But with an RV bike rack, you can safely mount your bicycles on the back while leaving the inside spacious and comfortable.

We’ve chosen the best RV bike racks on the market based on their different features and benefits. We made sure to select the top models that can safely hold your bikes when on the road and have other features that make road trips much more effortless.

Read on to learn more.

  • Quick Summary
  • Editor's Choice: HYPERAX RV Hitch Mounted Bike Rack "Our top pick offers a durable, stable, and secure surface to mount your bikes."
  • Premium Pick: Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack "A multi-purpose rack with advanced features, making it much easier to bring your bikes along with you."
  • Best anti-theft system: Futura GP RV Bike Rack "A simple RV bike rack with a robust anti-theft system to keep your bikes safe."
  • Best Anti-Wobble Design: Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack "A simple bumper rack that’s easy to install with impressive build quality."
  • Largest Capacity: Tom Tuff Bike Rack "A simple rack that can support up to 500lbs, allowing you to bring more supplies."
  • Best Anti-Sway Cradles: Swagman RV Approved "A sleek bike rack with anti-sway cradles to keep your bikes from bumping into each other."
  • Easiest to Install: Let's Go Aero "A modern bike rack that conveniently and securely holds two different bikes."
  • Best for Trailers: QPRBM2R RV 2-Bike Rack "A bumper bike rack that easily fits on just about any trailer bumper out there."
  • Most Reasonable Priced: Leadracks 3 Hitch Mount "The best hitch bike rack on the market available on a budget."
  • Best Value: Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack "A budget-friendly bike rack that holds everything in place and can last you many adventures to come!"

Top 10 RV Bike Racks Review 2023

HYPERAX RV Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

HYPERAX RV Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

  • Load Capacity (lbs.): 140
  • Load Capacity Bikes: 2
  • Max Tire Width (in.): 5
  • Max Wheel Size (in.): 58
  • Distance between Bikes (in.): not stated
  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 32.6×13.07×9.84
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 47.4
  • Material: alloy steel
  • Vehicle Service Type: trailer

Other features: comes with co-injected soft rubberized ratcheting hooks, dual-key lock, carrying handle

Our first pick on this list is by far our favorite. It’s specifically designed for mounting on an RV, which gives you much more safety when driving out on the road. It has two different racks that each support 70lbs each, which is more than enough to carry two bikes.

What sets this model apart from others on the market is its safety features. For starters, it has soft rubberized ratcheting hooks. This allows you to easily stabilize the rack on your RV without scratching the surface. The rack fits class 3 and higher fit receivers, making it the perfect RV hitch bike rack. It’s made out of alloy steel, which makes it very durable, so it can last you many RV adventures without breaking.

  • One feature we really enjoyed was the dual-key lock. This firmly secures the bikes to the rack and the rack to your RV, which can prevent people from stealing them. When you're out on the road, you never know what you might encounter, so it's better to be safe than sorry. Another neat feature is the carrying handle. When you remove the rack from your RV, you can fold it up and use the carrying handle to bring it around. It also has a storage hook built-in, so you can simply hang it up on the wall when not in use, saving you a fair amount of space. Another great feature is that this rack is durable and sturdy enough to hold e-bikes along with your standard mountain and road bicycles.
  • A common customer complaint about this rack is that some people need to buy a hitch mount stabilizer. Since the rack isn't that stable when hitched, you can use the stabilizer to keep it from rocking when you're on the road. The wheels are held down by velcro, which does its job for the most part, but some customers chose to reinforce it for added safety.

Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack

Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack

  • Load Capacity (lbs.): 100
  • Max Wheel Size (in.): 29
  • Distance between Bikes (in.): 12.5
  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 33.8×54.7×22.5
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 52.04

Other features: auto-attach system, hitch-switch lever, integrated cable lock, lifetime limited warranty

If you’re willing to invest in a premium bike rack that can last you many years, this might be the model for you. It has tons of modern features that you won’t find on other racks, has a sturdy build, and can fit just about any type of bike out there.

What sets this model apart is the auto-attach system. Through our research, we found that many bike racks on the market can be hard to install, especially for beginners. However, the auto-attach system makes it very easy to hook up the racks, mount your bikes, and hit the road. It also comes with a lifetime limited warranty, which is a testament to the company’s faith in this durable and ergonomic product.

  • The fine details are what we found most attractive about this product. For example, the hitch-switch lever is a simple yet incredibly useful innovation. When not using the rack, you can use the lever to raise it up safely, and when dismounting your bikes, you can use the lever to lower the rack and make it easier to dismount. It also has an integrated cable lock, which can keep your bikes safe when you're parked. Since it has zero-frame contact, your bike's finish is completely safe while also allowing you to mount a bunch of different bikes on top of it.
  • With that said, we would have liked the model better if it had a larger capacity. While it can fit a lot of different bikes, the maximum weight per rack is 60lbs. This can be limiting for some people, especially for those with heavier rides. And with the cost of this model, you'd expect it to have a slightly larger capacity.

Futura GP RV Bike Rack

Futura GP RV Bike Rack

  • Load Capacity (lbs.): 80
  • Max Tire Width (in.): 2-1/2
  • Max Wheel Size (in.): 30
  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 69x37x12
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 44
  • Material: aluminum

Other features: anti-theft system, rubber installed on the hooks, lifetime limited warranty

We selected this model because of its safety. Among the other RV bike racks out there, this is the one with the most sophisticated and reliable security system, so you won’t have to worry about any type of bike theft when traveling.

This RV bike rack is designed with security as a top priority. It has a robust anti-theft system with a strong padlock that will protect your bikes and the rack from any potential danger. What sets it apart from others is the fact that it can be used for a variety of vehicles. It doesn’t take that much effort to move this bike rack from an RV to another vehicle like an SUV.

  • The feature we enjoyed the most was the anti-theft system. We also love that you can use this bike rack for RV's and other vehicles. So, if you're renting an RV for a summer trip, you can still use the rack with your regular car when you get back. It has a maximum capacity of 80 lbs, which is enough for most bikes out there. On top of that, it comes with a lifetime warranty to protect you against factory and manufacturing defects.
  • While this rack can support an 80lbs bike, remember that it's designed for two bicycles. So, if you're loading two bikes on it, they need to be a maximum of 40lbs, which means it won't be able to carry the heavier bikes out there. A couple of customers have said that it would be better if this rack could handle heavier loads for its price.

Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack

Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack

  • Load Capacity (lbs.): 60
  • Max Tire Width (in.): –
  • Max Wheel Size (in.): –
  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 26.5x21x2.5
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 0.75

Other features: powder-coated, secure the steel U-Folts provided with the rack

After hours of research, we believe we’ve found the best RV bike rack for an RV bumper out there. This model works with RV campers and trailers, easily attaching to the bumper and keeping your bikes safe. It’s sturdy, secure, and can hold two separate bikes with ease.

One of the reasons we featured this rack on our list is because of how sturdy it is. It best fits RV bumpers that are 4’’-4.5″, and you attach the racks through bolts. The racks are very stable and won’t rock if you install it right, even if you’re on a rough road.

  • As we mentioned earlier, the build quality is the part of this rack we enjoyed the most. It's made out of alloy steel with a black finish to resist corrosion. It's made out of heavy-duty steel, so you don't have to worry about it bending over time. It's a lightweight and convenient bike rack that's very easy to install. And once it's hooked up to your bumper, it will stay there unless you remove the bolts. This rack also has an upright bar in the middle to add extra stability to your bikes.
  • One thing we found lacking in this rack was a locking system. Since it's such a simple bike rack, it doesn't incorporate a built-in locking system. Instead, you'll have to find your own way to secure your bikes and keep them safe from thieves. On top of that, it has a relatively light load capacity of 60lbs. This rack will work for most mountain and road bikes, but if you have heavier e-bikes, they might be too heavy for the job.

Tom Tuff Bike Rack

Tom Tuff Bike Rack

  • Load Capacity (lbs.): 500
  • Load Capacity Bikes: 4
  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 27x62x3
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 48

Other features: adjustable wheel holder, tie-down holes secure, 1-year warranty

This next model is a cargo carrier and bike rack at the same time. So, on top of loading up your bikes for a road trip, you can also squeeze in some more supplies to free up space inside the RV. It’s lightweight but has a large load capacity, which makes it a great choice for group campers and adventurers.

The defining characteristic of this cargo carrier is its strength. With a maximum load capacity of 500lbs, you can easily fit in up to four bikes with some extra cargo on the side. If you’re traveling with a group of friends or with your family, this is a great choice as it allows you to bring more valuable supplies with you.

  • This rack can fit up to four bikes. We found this feature most impressive as it allows you to bring multiple friends with you on your RV adventure. And if you only have one or two bikes with you, the extra space is perfect for extra supplies like a cooler or an extra sleeping bag. To switch from cargo carrier to bike rack, all you have to do is add in the pins that hold in the bikes and vice versa. On top of that, this rack can easily hook up to an RV or pick-up truck with ease, making it one of the most versatile options out there.
  • One thing we found missing from this rack is a locking system. This is a fair trade for the large load capacity, but it would be nice if there was a way to lock your bikes in and keep them safe when you can't keep an eye on them. Additionally, this bike rack prioritizes function over form, which isn't exactly a bad thing. However, this makes for a fairly boring design that doesn't look sleek or modern.

Swagman RV Approved

Swagman RV Approved

  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 34x12x26
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 22

Other features: anti-sway cradles prevent bike-to-bike contact

This next product is a great way to keep your bikes from hitting each other. When traveling on the road with multiple bikes, having your bikes sway into each other can cause damage. However, this rack’s anti-sway cradle prevents that from happening and keeps your bikes safe the whole way through.

This is a sleek, lightweight, and modern bike rack perfect for your travels. It easily hooks up to a trailer and can handle two bicycles, which allows you and your friend to hit the road together and discover the outdoors.

  • Our favorite feature from this rack is the anti-sway cradle. Most bike racks out there don't have any mechanism in place to keep bikes from hitting each other when mounted on a rack. This can lead to damaging your bike's paint job or, even worse, damaging the bike itself. The anti-sway cradle keeps your bikes safe from hitting each other the whole trip. It's constructed out of alloy steel, so it's very durable and can last you many adventures. On top of that, it mounts around spare tires, which makes it compatible with a variety of different vehicles.
  • We found that the load capacity of this rack is lacking. While it can handle most bikes, this rack will struggle to do the job if you have heavier two-wheelers. On top of that, it doesn't have the most secure locking system, which means you have to find your own ways to lock the bikes in place and keep them safe from theft. Other customers complained that this rack was a bit too narrow. This means that the bikes can be fairly close together when mounted, which can lead to some trouble along the way.
  • Our 8 pick for the: best spare tire bike rack

Let's Go Aero

Let's Go Aero

  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 30x20x8
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 36.4

Other features: Jack-It mounts, sway-control system, noMotion pins

This rack is a modern take on a bike-carrying system and is a great pick for any RV camper looking to bring multiple bikes on a road trip. It has a maximum load capacity of 80lbs, can carry two separate bikes, and sports a sleek design that will have you traveling in style.

This RV bike rack uses a unique Jack-It mount system. This is a two-bike rack with foam bumpers installed to protect your bike’s finish and body from damage when driving, even on bumpy roads. The system allows the bikes to have more stability as it attaches to the part of the trailer with the least bounce.

  • The Jack-It mount is by far our favorite feature of this rack. The mount attaches directly to the tongue jack on A-frame trailers. This is the part of the trailer with the least bounce, so it keeps your bikes safe and stable when on the road. Because of its innovative design also protects the tongue jack from impact, adding an extra layer of safety and stability. We also enjoyed the fact that this rack carries the bikes by the wheels, which further increases the stability when biking.
  • While this rack keeps your bikes stable, it doesn't have an anti-theft system. So, you have to use your own locks and mechanism to keep it safe when you're parked or sleeping. Additionally, the instructions that come with the rack to show you how to install it are fairly difficult to understand. In fact, many customers decided just to figure out how to install it on their own as they couldn't understand the manual. On top of that, when loading two bikes, the one that goes closer to the trailer can be very hard to mount.

QPRBM2R RV 2-Bike Rack

QPRBM2R RV 2-Bike Rack

Other features: powder-coated, slotted tire wells

This next pick is another RV bike rack that you place on the bumper. It’s made out of steel, fits two bikes, and has an adjustable mounting to fit any type of bicycle. This is a simple, straightforward bike rack that would be a great choice for any RV adventurer.

This rack’s main feature is its simplicity. This bike rack doesn’t come with loads of extra features, but that can work to its advantage. Instead of struggling to figure out how to install it and mount your bike, all you have to do is connect it to your bumper, and you’re good to go.

  • Aside from the simplicity, what we liked most about this rack is the value for the money. This pick is the best choice for trailers as it installs easily and holds a decent amount of weight. On top of that, it even has a powder coating on top to prevent rust and corrosion from developing. And despite its affordable price tag, this bike rack is strong and can last you many adventures in the coming years.
  • While we enjoyed the features of this rack, it would have been nice to have some sort of security measure built-in. Since it doesn't have any security features, you have to figure out how to keep your bike safe when you aren't watching over it. Additionally, the rack can only support a maximum of 60lbs, and while that's fine if you only have one bike, it limits you to only 30lbs per bike if you plan on mounting two. This rack also doesn't fit wide-tired bikes, so if your two-wheeler has wheels wider than 29", this isn't the one for you.

Leadracks 3 Hitch Mount

Leadracks 3 Hitch Mount

  • Load Capacity (lbs.): 110
  • Load Capacity Bikes: 3
  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 27.5x14x3.8
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 22.6
  • Vehicle Service Type: trailer, minivan, SUV, truck, passenger car

Other features: arc-shaped design protect a bike from harm, removable saddles-suitable for a variety of bicycles width

This next pick is one of the best RV hitch bike racks out there. This bike rack fits on multiple vehicles, so whether you hit the road on an RV, sedan, minivan, or a regular passenger car, you can use this rack to bring your two-wheelers with you.

One of the main reasons we featured this bike rack is that it isn’t just for RV’s; it’s for just about any car out there. This rack is equipped with a hitch tightener that you can use to get a snugger fit, making your bikes more secure. That way, you can bring your bikes with you even if you’re going on a solo trip using your car.

  • The design of this bike rack is really what caught our attention. The fact that it's compatible with different types of vehicles makes this one of the best bike racks out there. On top of that, the steel construction makes for a fairly durable build, so it can easily support your bikes. They've also upgraded the straps on the rack so that they can last much longer than the old ones. This bike rack also has a built-in reflector, so it will be easier for other cars to see you when you're driving at night, making for a much safer experience.
  • One of the common complaints that customers have about this rack is its strength. While the alloy steel is very strong, the welding work could have been better. Another aspect that would've made this rack better is clearer installation instructions. There are many customers who found the rack hard to install, and the instructions did very little to help.

Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack

Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack

  • Load Capacity (lbs.): 70
  • Max Tire Width (in.): 3-1/2
  • Assembled Dimensions (in.): 5x35x11
  • Item Weight (lbs.): 39

Other features: upright arm with push-button, includes bumper mount adapter.

Wrapping up our list is one of the most convenient RV bike racks out there. It comes with a bumper mount adapter, so you can install it in many different places. It has two slots for different bikes, so you don’t have to get a separate rack if you’re driving around with two bikes.

What sets this bike apart is that it has an upright arm with a push-button. This makes it much easier to mount and dismount the bikes. This updated version also fits well with different-sized trailers and campers. So, you don’t have to worry about getting a specific size since it’s very flexible.

  • One of the key features we enjoyed was the easy installation. Whether you're installing this rack on a trailer or on a bumper, the instructions are very straightforward, and the whole process is done within a couple of minutes. And once the rack is installed, you can easily load up your bikes and be on your way. While this is a fairly light bike rack, it's very sturdy and durable, making it a great pick for adventurers.
  • One thing we found lacking with this rack is the lack of security features. It doesn't come with a lock, so you'll have to get one yourself. Additionally, bigger bikes might rub up on the rack and damage the paint job due to the design. So, it's best not to use this rack for larger bikes. This rack is also very close to the back of the RV when installed, so you have to keep that in mind if you plan to get one for yourself.

Things to Consider

  • How to Choose the Best RV Bike Rack?

10 Best RV Bike Racks for Safe Transportation (Spring 2024)

It’s always important to choose a rack that can do the job you need it to do. So, try to figure out your own needs before hitting the market. Consider how heavy your bikes are, how you want to attach the rack, how long you’re traveling, and what other extra features you’d want.

With that said, there are some features that are beneficial regardless of your needs on the road. It’s always best to get bike racks made out of durable materials, so they’ll last you many trips to come. Additionally, you always have to ensure that your bikes are safe and stable when mounted, so make sure the straps and design keep your bikes in place.

And when you combine those features with your own personal needs, it will be much easier to figure out which RV bike rack will suit you best.

Features to Consider

Here are some of the main aspects to keep in mind when shopping for the best RV bike rack based on your needs;

  • Load Capacity

Load capacity refers to the maximum weight the rack can support. It’s always best to get a rack that can handle a heavier load than your bikes. If you only plan on bringing one bike that weighs 20lbs, it would be best to get a model with a maximum load capacity of 40lbs-60lbs, such as the Swagman RV bike rack.

However, if you plan to bring multiple bikes and some other equipment on the rack, make sure to get the stronger models. We recommend the Tom Tuff Bike Rack , and the HYPERAX RV Hitch Mounted Bike Rack for large loads, both of which are great RV bike racks with large load capacities.

  • Max Tire Width

10 Best RV Bike Racks for Safe Transportation (Spring 2024)

Remember, the load capacity isn’t the only determining factor when it comes to what you can load on the rack. Before you hit the market, check out the tire width of your bike. If you plan to bring larger mountain bikes on your adventures, then make sure to get models with a max-width of at least 5″ such as the Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack . But for road bikes, you can get ones with a 2″ maximum tire width like the Futura GP RV Bike Rack .

  • Max Wheel Size

Tire width isn’t your only concern with bike racks. Remember, you need to make sure that your bike comfortably fits and mounts onto the rack, and you need to take wheel size into account. To understand the right maximum wheel size, you first have to measure your own bike wheel’s diameter. Most bike racks out there can handle a max wheel size between 29-30 inches, such as the Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack and the Futura GP RV Bike Rack .

For larger bikes, you will need a rack such as the HYPERAX RV Hitch Mounted Bike Rack , which has a maximum wheel size capacity of 58 inches, which is large enough to handle just about any bicycle or e-bike out there.

  • Distance Between Bikes

When you’re hitting the road with two or more bikes, the wrong rack can result in some heavy damage on the bikes. Damage from bike racks usually results from the bikes being too close together on the road. When they’re close together, there’s a high chance that they can rub and bump against each other when you’re driving, which can damage the paint job or even the frame.

10 Best RV Bike Racks for Safe Transportation (Spring 2024)

While it can be hard to find data on the distance between two bikes when shopping, it’s very important to make the extra effort to do so. So, if you’re traveling with multiple bikes, make sure that the rack provides ample distance between the two. A larger distance between the bikes also allows you to load up larger bikes on the rack without any worries. The Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack provides a 12.5″ distance between the bikes, which is enough to keep them from bumping into each other. There are also models such as the Swagman RV Bike Rack , which doesn’t state the distance between the two bikes, but it has an anti-sway cradle in place to make sure the bikes don’t bump each other while you’re driving. This feature could be a decent way to protect your bikes without worrying about the distance between the two.

  • Item Dimensions and Weight

When shopping for just about anything, you always have to take in the item dimensions and the weight. Additionally, for RV bike racks, it’s best to compare the item’s dimensions to your own vehicle’s measurements to ensure you get a model that fits just right. Getting an RV bike rack that’s too large can be a hassle, especially since it can be much harder to make adjustments. And if you get a rack that’s too small, you might not be able to fit your bikes, or it won’t mount properly on the RV.

Another important reason to think about the dimensions is that it plays a big role in storage. Ideally, it’s best to remove the bike rack from your RV after your adventure and store it until you need it again. Large and bulky bike racks can be hard to store and take up too much space in the garage or basement. A great way to get around this is to get a bike rack that folds up, such as the HYPERAX RV Hitch Mounted Bike Rack, which even comes with a hook that you can use to hand the rack when not in use.

We always recommend checking the weight of the rack before buying. A rack that’s too heavy might damage the RV or be hard to install, while racks that are too light might not be stable and durable enough for the job.

  • Vehicle Service Type

It’s always important to get racks that fit your vehicle service type. If you only plan to use the rack on your RV or trailer, then any of the options on this list would serve you well. However, some people want multi-purpose racks they can use on their RV in the summer and attach it to their SUV for shorter trips throughout the year.

In that case, you need a rack that can attach to multiple vehicles. Keep in mind that you might end up spending a bit more money on these racks, but it gives you much more versatility on the road. A great option for those who need multi-purpose RV bike racks is the Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack or the Tom Tuff Bike rack.

10 Best RV Bike Racks for Safe Transportation (Spring 2024)

As we mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to get a bike rack that’s made out of tough and durable materials. Opting for bike racks with sub-par materials and construction might result in you needing to replace the rack after one short trip. In the worst cases, bike racks that aren’t durable can break while you’re driving, causing you to lose your bike or even causing an accident.

We always recommend getting bike racks made of alloy steel. This is a relatively lightweight but highly durable material that can last you a very long time and take tons of different adventures. Additionally, since you can never be sure of the weather, we suggest getting a bike rack with an anti-corrosion coating on the exterior to protect it from rust.

In the event of a factory defect or manufacturing error, you would want to have your rack replaced or fixed. A warranty Trusted Source Warranty Definition Warranties often have conditions limiting the warranty. www.investopedia.com is a very important factor in buying a product as it stands as a testament to a brand’s faith in the product. Most of the bike racks on the list, such as the Futura GP RV Bike Rack, come with a lifetime limited warranty. So, in the event that the bike rack is defective, you might be able to send it back to the brand, and they will replace it for free. This isn’t a requirement for the best RV bike rack, but it’s a significant plus.

A great way to make the search for the best RV bike rack easier for you is to select a price range before shopping. Keep in mind that premium bike racks come with a premium price tag, at least for the most part. So, if you really want a durable bike rack with sophisticated features to last you years of outdoor adventures, then be prepared to spend the money for it.

With that said, there are also tons of models on the market today available on a budget. There are some sacrifices you’ll have to make when opting for inexpensive options, but you can still get a durable bike rack that can hold your bicycles securely on the RV while you’re hitting the road. And sometimes, a simpler and inexpensive bike rack might actually be the best option for you. You don’t need complex and expensive bike racks for your road trip, so always remember to buy a rack based on your price range and needs.

  • Other Features

Some RV bike racks come with extra features. Some racks serve multiple purposes, such as an RV ladder bike rack, which offers a quick and convenient way to mount your rides. Some models even come with built-in security features such as locking mechanisms to keep your bikes safe and secure even when you’re not looking at them.

Another great example of extra features is the Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack, which comes with a convenient lever that you can use to hitch the bikes with ease. These extra features aren’t exactly requirements for a bike rack. If all you need is a simple rack for your bike when traveling, then you can get options like the Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack , which keeps things straight to the point. With that said, extra features can also be very beneficial and are always worth considering when you shop for an RV bike rack.

  • Included Components

When you get the bike rack, you’re going to have to install it. And with most of the RV bike racks out there, you’ll need some additional components. For example, the QPRBM2R RV 2-Bike Rack requires bolts for its installation. This model comes with everything you need for installing it, but this isn’t always the case.

There are some models out there that don’t come with all the necessary components for installing. This might result in you having to go all the way to the store to buy additional things just to install the rack. So, make sure that the model you buy always includes everything you need to attach it to your RV.

  • Installation Tips

If you’re completely new to bike racks, then you might have a tough time installing them on your RV. In fact, even experienced DIY-ers can have a hard time installing the bike rack. So, we always recommend getting models that include clear installation tips and instructions in the package. It can be very frustrating when you try to guess how to install the bike rack, especially if you have an outdoor adventure coming up. But with clear step-by-step instructions, it will be much easier for you to install the rack and hit the road!

  • What Can I Load On an RV Bike Rack Other Than Bikes?
  • Are There Any Special Security Concerns?
  • Our verdict

With that, our list comes to an end. We made sure to do all the research and only include the best options on the market today. We also included a variety of models on the list, so it will be easier for you to find just the right option for you.

Overall, we found that the HYPERAX RV Hitch Mounted Bike Rack to be the best option on the market. It comes with all the features you need and can easily support your bikes. If you need a more premium option with advanced features, you can also opt for the Thule T2 XTR Hitch Bike Rack , which is sleek, strong, and does the job very well.

And for those looking for a real bang for their buck, the Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack is a great bike rack for those on a budget. It sports a modern design, is made of durable materials, and you can get it for an affordable price.

Everyone has different needs when going on an RV adventure. And if you found the right bike rack for you on this list, all that’s left to do is get your hands on one and hit the road! That’s why we made sure to include the best RV bike racks for different kinds of adventurers.

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5 Best RV Bike Rack Options: Ladder, Bumper or Hitch

When looking for the best rv bike rack, you'll first need to decide if you want ladder, bumper, or hitch mount. then you can consider these 5 options….

  • 1 When looking for the best RV bike rack, you'll first need to decide if you want ladder, bumper, or hitch mount. Then you can consider these 5 options…
  • 2.1 1. RV Rider E-Bike Rack
  • 2.2 2. Fiamma Bike Rack
  • 2.3 3. Allen Sports 4-bike Hitch Rack
  • 2.4 4. Swagman Traveler XC2
  • 2.5 5. Surco 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack
  • 3.1 Ladder Mounts
  • 3.2 Bumper Mounts
  • 3.3 Hitch Mounts
  • 4 Do You Have the Best RV Bike Rack?
  • 5 New Foldable Ebikes that Fit in Your RV Garage!
  • 6 Related Articles
  • 7 Mike and Jennifer's Favorite Places in Florida – all 3 ebooks!
  • 8 RV Lifestyle officially recommends The Dyrt

Many RV owners love to take their recreational vehicle off the beaten path, to places they can truly enjoy the great outdoors. These same owners also want to take along their mountain bikes or beach bikes to enjoy the gorgeous views. Not to mention cover more outdoor ground than they otherwise would be able to.

Best RV Bike Rack (5 Options)

It's time to find yourself the perfect bike rack! The following are some great suggestions for different types of bike racks.

(By the way, Jennifer and I are fans of ebikes. If you are too, check out the 5 Outstanding Hitch Racks for eBikes We've included our favorite ebike rack below, too.)

If you buy something through our links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep our lights on so we can continue to provide helpful resources for RVers. Read our  full affiliate disclosure here.

1. RV Rider E-Bike Rack

Hollywood Rack with a Lectric ebike.

Our TOP CHOICE is the RV Rider E-bike rack. The RV Rider bike rack for the back of RV's, motorhomes, and fifth wheels* carries 2 E-Bikes (up to 80 lbs. each). Special features include universal heavy-duty wheel holders for heavy load carrying capacity.

These wheel holders can fit any tire up to 5″ wide and include a ratchet wheel strap. Locking frame grabbers secure the bikes in place. The frame grabbers can attach to a bike's frame or seat tube with a diameter range of 1″- 2″; therefore, Bike Adapters are not needed .

We like it so much that we reached out to RV Rider to see if they would offer a discount to our RV Lifestyle community.

They agreed and are giving our readers 20% off the RV Rider E-bike Rack. All you have to do is click the link above and enter the promo code RVLIFE to save 20%! They also offer free shipping in the U.S. (except Hawaii and Alaska).

Please note that this discount is only for the RV Rider Rack. You'll need a 2″ hitch and it *cannot be used on a travel trailer.

2. Fiamma Bike Rack

This unique bike rack is a top choice for various reasons. Its unique design allows it to be easily mounted to the rear of your RV, but still allows you to access your rig without having to remove it.

This brand has several different options depending on your rig and how high you want or need to mount your bikes. This rack can even be specially made for your rig.

The only downside is the steep price but it can be worth it if you need customizability. Is this the best RV bike rack?

3. Allen Sports 4-bike Hitch Rack

Allen Sports 4-bike Hitch Rack

The Allen Sports hitch rack is a popular choice for families or groups of travelers. The reason it is such a common choice is because of its load capacity. Many excellent racks can only haul two bikes, while the Allen can carry four!

This makes road trips with the family a little easier!

This stable rack is constructed from high-quality materials, making it very durable for your haul. It also comes with tie-downs to be able to carry any bike.

Finally, this rack is easily maneuvered once it is installed. That means that you can load your bikes easily and get on the road faster.

4. Swagman Traveler XC2

Swagman Traveler XC2

Some consider the Swagman bike rack your best choice overall when it comes to bike racks. This particular model is an adaptable hitch rack and can work easily with a number of different sized trailers or campers.

It fits into a 2″ hitch receiver and can hold up to 35-pound bicycles (70-pound maximum load).

Even though this is a hitch-mount rack, it can be used with a steel-welded RV bumper adapter as well.

Swagman products are known for their well-crafted, high durability, and ease of use.

5. Surco 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack

Surco 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack

The Surco 501 BR is the perfect choice for those looking for a ladder mount. It features pivoting arms so that you can easily access your RV ladder without having to remove the rack.

You can also still gain access to your hitch or bumper as well, making it easy to fulfill your hauling needs.

It is also versatile and can fit any ladder on an RV or van. The good news is that you do not need any additional tie-downs, straps, or hardware to use this model.

3 Main Types of Bike Racks

Best RV Bike Rack Options Ladder Bumper or Hitch

There are several different types of RV bike racks that you can choose from. Not all types will fit your specific needs, so it is important to know the differences. There are three main types of bike carriers that you can find: RV ladder bike racks, bumper mount racks, and hitch mounts.

Ladder Mounts

Ladder mounted bike racks, sometimes referred to as a ladder rack, hook onto the ladder rungs of your RV. It can also work with most ladders that are present on the back of a tow trailer.

The ladder mount rack is set up to mount your bikes vertically on the back of your RV, with the front tire pointed down closest to the ground.

This type of rack is a popular option because it allows you to still hitch your tow vehicle or trailer.

They are also more cost-effective than other types of racks. And provide a great option for those that do not have a bumper or hitch to install different types of bike racks.

One downside with these racks is that they usually have a lower weight capacity, and usually only come as a 2-bike rack. The limited bike capacity may not be a great choice for your family.

You will also need to take down the rack when you use your ladder. Keep that in mind when looking for a rack that is a good fit for your needs.

Bumper Mounts

These racks are sometimes called a bumper rack. And that is for good reason. They get mounted to your, you guessed it…RV bumper.

This type of mount can be one of your best options because your bikes can sit lower to the ground. That helps eliminate visibility issues when looking out your rear window or using a backup camera.

A bumper bike rack gets attached to your rear bumper. that means you need a very solid, steel-welded bumper on the rear of your rig to use it.

However, since this mount type requires the bumper will be carrying a lot of weight, these racks usually only hold two bikes.

With certain models, you may also be able to attach the rack, and still access your hitch. It depends on the design of your RV.

Hitch Mounts

A third option is a hitch mount bike rack. This type of bike rack mounts directly to your trailer hitch. However, they are only a viable option if you do not plan to use your hitch to tow a vehicle or trailer.

You will also want to ensure that your hitch has a hitch receiver or you will not be able to easily use this rack.

Most hitch receivers come in a 2′ standard size. But there are other sizes out there should you need them.

One benefit of this type of rack is that you can usually carry a greater number of bikes than ladder or bumper racks. Some can even carry up to five bikes, depending on the weight capacity of the rack.

Do You Have the Best RV Bike Rack?

Please share your recommendations (or non-recommendations) for any RV bike rack you have tried. Let us know your thoughts so we can expand and improve our list. Thank you!

New Foldable Ebikes that Fit in Your RV Garage!

Like what you see in these videos?  We'd appreciate it if you would Subscribe to our YouTube Channel ( easy to do right here ) and consider “ringing the bell icon” to be notified of any new video from us. 🙂 Thanks!

We tested out the new XP 2.0 Lectric ebikes, riding along the Mississippi! These are electric, foldable bikes, offering a smooth ride at a reasonable price. We had a lot of fun riding around at our recent RV gathering!

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5 Best RV Bike Rack Options: Ladder, Bumper or Hitch 1

We RVers may wander far and wide but it’s true for most of us that we end up with some favorite “Go-To” places – places that draw us back again and again.

Florida is one of those places for us. And we know it is for many RVers looking to get away and explore during the winter. 

That's why we've created three guides, covering  Florida's Atlantic Coast, the Gulf Coast, and the Keys.  

Each of these guides is a seven-day guided exploration of one of the coasts. And each stop is a curated view of the best things that we’ve enjoyed on this trip and want you to experience.

Altogether these guides are over 300 pages of content! 

RV Lifestyle officially recommends The Dyrt

5 Best RV Bike Rack Options: Ladder, Bumper or Hitch 2

You can book campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, and glamping, or find free camping. The Dyrt has it all. And in case you didn't know, The Dyrt is the #1 camping app and website in the US, with over 8 million campsites, reviews, and tips — submitted by campers, for campers. And The Dyrt PRO version makes every camping trip easier. With offline map backups, offline search, exclusive discounts, and trip planning tools, PRO can improve any stage of camping.

The Dyrt app lets users with basic accounts search for camping and save favorites, completely for free. The Dyrt PRO is an upgrade that makes it easier to go camping. Try PRO for free today.

Use the code RVlifestyle for your 30-day free trial!

rv travel trailer bike rack

Published on 2022-01-21

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

8 Responses to “5 Best RV Bike Rack Options: Ladder, Bumper or Hitch”

rv travel trailer bike rack

March 15, 2024at3:10 am , Neet and Angel said:

I’ve been looking for a bike rack that will work well with my RV and this post has been incredibly helpful! I like the option of the hitch-mounted bike rack as it looks like it would be easy to install and take up less space than a bumper rack. Will definitely be considering one of these options for our next camping trip!

rv travel trailer bike rack

March 16, 2024at8:59 am , Team RV Lifestyle said:

We are so glad to hear this! Thank you for the feedback! Team RV Lifestyle

rv travel trailer bike rack

December 07, 2022at4:42 pm , Vincent Benoit said:

Have you considered the “Arvika” bike rack? They offer a product that can fit 4 bikes… The rack can fit on a A-Frame, but also on a car and RV. They have this hitch adapter that can be fit on any hitch. I also saw people mounting eBike on it! For now, I have it on my travel trailer and considering to buy the hitch adapter to travel with my car, prefer this than buying another bike rack! [Link deleted]

December 07, 2022at7:34 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Thanks for sharing this option, Vincent – Team RV Lifestyle

rv travel trailer bike rack

January 21, 2022at10:17 am , Randall Dunn said:

Check out 1UP hitch mounted racks. 1UP is based in Wisconsin. They use high quality materials and there craftsmanship is very good. Most of their product line is made in the USA and I had no “supply chain issues” when I ordered a hitch rack in November 2020.

rv travel trailer bike rack

January 21, 2022at9:10 am , Gregory Kent said:

You need to consider an even better bike rack “Kuat”. It is extremely strong and rated for E-bikes. It tilts down and has a ramp you can attach to it to help loading and unloading. This is a big plus for those of us that do not want to end up with back problems.

rv travel trailer bike rack

January 21, 2022at9:05 am , Kenneth Laursen said:

Most hitch mount 2 ebike racks are NOT designed for travel trailers even though they state for RV. Trailers have a different side to side motion than a motor home. It could leave your multiple thousand dollars investment dragging in street. I have HOLLYWOOD 2 rack system that I can load and unload by myself in 20 minutes. I am 79. It was around $500, I have traveled so far nearly 10K miles with zero problems. Very easy to work with factory direct order. If you have trailer or fifth wheel be specific when you order. We have 2 RAD bikes that are wonderful.

rv travel trailer bike rack

January 21, 2022at8:22 am , Rick Edgar said:

You need to look at the Kuat. Thule also a quality rack.

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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)

Shawn

  • Last Updated: Apr 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

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?

hanging hitch bike rack

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

right bike rack, TRAVELER Hitch Mount 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!

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Shawn

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5 Best RV Bike Racks for Camper Van Life Bike Carry Solutions During Travel In 2024

Choosing the right RV bike rack is essential for adventurers who love to hit the open road with their bicycles in tow. A reliable bike rack not only ensures the safety of your bikes but also enhances your RV camping and travel experience. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time RV living enthusiast, integrating a bike rack into your setup allows for spontaneous biking adventures wherever you park. In this guide, we have extensively researched, reviewed, and ranked the 5 best RV bike racks for camper van life bike carry solutions during travel in 2024. This ensures you can choose the right bike racks for your RV from the many choices. With the importance of RV accessories and camping gear evolving, selecting an RV bike rack that aligns with your travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome needs has never been more critical.

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Table of Contents

Our Top Picks Of The 5 Best RV Bike Racks for Camper Van Life In 2024

1. best overall: swagman bicycle carrier traveler xc2, 2. best durable option: hollywood rv rider hitch bike rack, 3. best for e-bike: young e-bike rack hitch mount platform style, 4. best versatile option: meeviz hitch bike rack 180 lbs capacity, 5. best for compact storage: lippert let’s go aero – 429756 jack-it, what is the best rv bike rack for camper van life.

Identifying the optimal RV bike rack is a critical decision that marries functionality with security. It requires finding a balance that suits your RV’s specifications and your adventurous lifestyle, ensuring your bikes are transported safely and efficiently. Moreover, the ideal rack should offer effortless accessibility and robust protection, elevating your RV camping experiences. Furthermore, choosing a rack that aligns with eco-friendly travel principles can enhance your journey, making it as responsible as it is memorable.

rv travel trailer bike rack

Quick Specifications

  • Brand: Swagman Bicycle Carrier
  • Dimensions: 5 x 35 x 11 inches
  • Load Capacity: 35 lbs per bike
  • Mounting Type: Hitch
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Weight: 39 lbs
  • Foldability: Yes

In our quest for the ideal RV bike rack, the Swagman Bicycle Carrier TRAVELER XC2 has emerged as a frontrunner. Its robust design tailored for RV travel, combined with its RV approval, reassures us of its reliability and safety for our biking adventures. The simplicity of its assembly and the user-friendly loading process allow for more time spent enjoying the outdoors and less on preparation.

Moreover, its sturdy construction ensures our bikes are securely anchored, giving us peace of mind on even the bumpiest of roads. The inclusion of a foldable upright bar for easy rear RV access when not in use, and its compatibility with a variety of hitch receivers, make it a highly versatile choice for many RV owners.

  • Quick and easy assembly and bike loading, enhancing user convenience.
  • Sturdy design ensures bikes remain securely in place during travel.
  • Versatile mounting options cater to various RV types and sizes.
  • Foldable feature provides easy access to the RV’s rear when not in bike transport mode.
  • Maximum load capacity of 35 pounds per bike may not suit heavier electric bikes.
  • The maximum tire width and wheelbase may limit compatibility with some bike models.

In our opinion, the Swagman Bicycle Carrier TRAVELER XC2 strikes the right balance between durability, ease of use, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for RV owners. Its ability to handle the rigors of RV travel, combined with thoughtful design features, ensures a hassle-free biking experience on the road. This rack stands out for its comprehensive approach to bike transport behind RVs, embodying reliability and convenience for adventurers.

rv travel trailer bike rack

  • Brand: Hollywood Racks
  • Dimensions: 39 x 20 x 9 inches
  • Load Capacity: 160 Pounds
  • Mounting Type: Wheel Mount, Hitch Mount
  • Material: Alloy Steel, Plastic
  • Item Weight: 56 Pounds
  • Foldable: Yes

From our standpoint, the Hollywood RV Rider Hitch Bike Rack stands out for its durability and robust construction. Designed to carry two electric bikes up to 80 lbs each, it’s the ideal companion for your RV, fifth wheel, or flat towed vehicle. The ease of securing bikes, coupled with the peace of mind provided by the locking security cable and frame grabbers, makes this rack a go-to for our adventures.

Moreover, the heavy-duty materials and thoughtful design, including a foldable structure for convenience and a tilt-down feature for easy cargo access, underscore its utility. The rack’s capability to support standard and fat tire bikes enhances its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of cyclists.

  • Designed to handle heavy electric bikes, ensuring safe transport.
  • Special security features, like locking frame grabbers, add an extra layer of theft deterrence.
  • The foldable and tilt-down design offers easy storage and cargo access.
  • Universal wheel holders accommodate fat tire bikes, expanding usability.
  • The total weight of the rack might be challenging for some to install or remove alone.
  • The higher price point could be a factor for some.

In our opinion, the Hollywood RV Rider Hitch Bike Rack is an excellent choice for those prioritizing durability and security in transporting their bikes. Its construction to accommodate heavy e-bikes, combined with added security features and a user-friendly design, places it as a proper standout in our list. Whether you’re exploring new terrains or heading to familiar trails, this rack ensures your bikes arrive safely and in style.

rv travel trailer bike rack

  • Brand: Young Electric
  • Dimensions: 41.73 x 69.13 x 40.66 inches
  • Foldable: No
  • Load Capacity: 200 Pounds
  • Mounting Type: Hitch Mount, Strap Mount, Tire Mount
  • Material: Alloy Steel, Aluminum

In our search for an e-bike-friendly rack, the Young E-Bike Rack Hitch Mount Platform Style emerged as a clear leader. Its robust design and 200-pound load capacity make it ideal for transporting heavier e-bikes without the worry of damage or instability. The secure 2-arm fix and anti-wobble system provide peace of mind that bikes are safe and secure, even on rough offroad adventures.

Moreover, this rack’s user-friendly features, such as the convenient handle for lifting and quick-release tilting for trunk access, set it apart. The ability to adjust cradle positions for different bike lengths ensures a perfect fit for most standard e-bikes, mountain bikes, and even kids’ bikes.

  • The 200 lb total capacity comfortably supports two heavy e-bikes.
  • Anti-wobble system significantly reduces rack movement during travel.
  • Quick-release tilting allows easy access to the vehicle’s trunk.
  • Height adjustment feature accommodates different bike sizes efficiently.
  • The rack’s non-foldable design may limit storage options when not in use.
  • Only compatible with 2″ hitch receivers, which might not suit all vehicles.

In our opinion, the Young E-Bike Rack Hitch Mount Platform Style is an excellent choice for e-bike enthusiasts who prioritize safety, stability, and versatility. Its thoughtful design caters to the unique needs of heavier electric bikes, ensuring they reach the destination as securely as they were mounted. This rack’s blend of robust construction and user-centric features make it a standout option in our list for anyone looking to transport their e-bikes with confidence.

rv travel trailer bike rack

  • Brand: Meeviz
  • Dimensions: 32.28 x 60 x 28.35 inches
  • Load Capacity: 180 Pounds
  • Mounting Type: Hitch Mount
  • Item Weight: 35.2 pounds

In our journey to find a bike rack that epitomizes versatility, the Meeviz Hitch Bike Rack has proven itself to be a standout contender. Its robust alloy steel construction offers the solidity needed to transport two bikes weighing up to 90 lbs each, making it an ideal choice for standard, fat tire, and electric bikes alike. Furthermore, its adaptability to fit a wide range of vehicle types, including RVs, SUVs, and trucks, coupled with a comprehensive range of bike sizes and styles. This ensures that it meets the varied needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

Moreover, the Meeviz bike rack’s user-friendly design, featuring quick and easy installation without the need for an arsenal of tools, significantly enhances the overall user experience. The inclusion of safety features, such as PVC padded J-hooks and a no-wobble hitch bolt, adds a layer of protection for both the bikes and the vehicle.

  • High-quality alloy steel construction ensures durability and stability.
  • Compatible with a broad spectrum of vehicles and bike types.
  • User-friendly installation and foldable design for easy storage.
  • Equipped with safety features to protect bikes and vehicle paintwork.
  • The weight capacity limitation of 150 lbs when used with an RV may require careful consideration of bike weight.
  • The rack’s weight of 35.2 pounds might be slightly cumbersome for some users to handle alone.

In our opinion, the Meeviz Hitch Bike Rack is an excellent choice within our list for those seeking a highly versatile and reliable solution for transporting bikes. Its compatibility with various vehicle types and bike styles, coupled with its robust build and thoughtful design features, make it a proper selection for anyone looking to enhance their biking and RVing experience.

rv travel trailer bike rack

  • Brand: Let’s Go Aero
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 30 x 20 x 8 inches
  • Load Capacity: 80 Pounds
  • Mounting Type: Padlocked
  • Item Weight: 36.4 Pounds

In our quest to find a bike rack that excels in compact storage without sacrificing functionality, the Lippert Let’s Go Aero Jack-It has emerged as a frontrunner. Its unique design allows it to mount over the tongue jack of an A-frame trailer, providing a novel solution to space-saving without compromising on bike security or stability. The Jack-It not only frees up space on the rear of the trailer but also positions your bikes in the least bouncy part of your trailer, ensuring a smoother ride.

Moreover, the addition of foam bumpers and the SwayControl system speaks volumes about its commitment to protecting your bikes during transit. The Jack-It’s ability to hold bikes securely by their wheels, combined with its robust construction, offers peace of mind to RVers looking to maximize their space efficiently.

  • Innovative design maximizes space utilization on A-frame trailers.
  • Enhanced stability with minimal bounce, thanks to front-of-trailer mounting.
  • Foam bumpers and SwayControl system protect bike finishes.
  • Easy to see bikes from the rear-view mirror, increasing peace of mind.
  • The 80-pound load capacity may limit the number of bikes or their types.
  • Non-foldable design might require disassembly for compact storage when not in use.

In our view, the Lippert Let’s Go Aero Jack-It stands out as an excellent choice for those with A-frame trailers seeking a bike rack that combines compact storage with stability and bike protection. Its unique mounting system not only optimizes unused space but also ensures that your bikes are transported safely and securely, making it a top pick in our list for innovative bike transportation solutions.

Understanding The Basics Of RV Bike Racks

When embarking on an RV adventure, bringing along bicycles can enhance the experience, offering freedom to explore the surroundings whenever you park. RV bike racks are essential accessories for cycling enthusiasts who travel. They provide a secure and convenient way to transport bikes on RVs, campers, and trailers. In this section, we’ll dive into the essentials of RV bike racks, covering their purpose, types, and the importance of materials and durability.

What Is A Bike Rack for RV?

An RV bike rack is a specialized device designed to attach bicycles to an RV, camper, or trailer. Unlike standard bike racks, these are built to withstand the unique challenges of road vibrations and weather exposure encountered during RV travels. They ensure that bikes are carried safely without compromising the vehicle’s functionality or driving experience.

What Is The Purpose of RV Bike Rack?

The primary purpose of an RV bike rack is to transport bicycles securely and efficiently, allowing adventurers to bring their favorite outdoor gear without sacrificing internal storage space. Moreover, it frees up the RV’s cargo area, making room for other essential camping gear and RV accessories. This is particularly valuable for those embracing the RV lifestyle or full-time RV living, where space optimization is key.

Types of RV Bike Racks

RV bike racks come in various forms, each suited to different needs and vehicle types. Hitch-mounted racks are popular for their ease of use and compatibility with many RVs. Bumper-mounted racks offer a sturdy solution for vehicles with capable bumpers, while ladder-mounted racks utilize the RV’s ladder for mounting. Lastly, roof-mounted racks might be preferred by those with sufficient roof space and the ability to lift bikes overhead. Each type offers its own set of benefits, from compact travel to off-grid power solutions for digital nomads.

Materials and Durability

The materials used in RV bike racks play a crucial role in their durability and longevity. Alloy steel and aluminum are common for their strength and resistance to rust and corrosion, essential for outdoor survival gear. Durability ensures that the rack can endure long journeys and harsh weather conditions, making it a reliable piece of equipment for RV camping and adventure travel.

Choosing the right RV bike rack involves understanding your specific needs, the types available, and the importance of materials and durability. Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking freedom camping opportunities or a family exploring national parks, the right bike rack can significantly enhance your RV travel experience. Furthermore, it’s an investment in convenience, safety, and the ability to bring a piece of home wherever you roam.

Do You Need Bike Racks for Your RV?

Incorporating a bike rack into your RV is more than just an upgrade; it’s a transformative addition that elevates your entire travel experience. For enthusiasts who revel in the spontaneity of exploring new trails or the simple joy of a bike ride at a scenic stop, a bike rack is indispensable. This section navigates through the essentials of bike racks for RV enthusiasts, highlighting how to assess your needs, the advantages of owning one, and key considerations before making your choice.

Assessing Your Needs

The first step in determining the right bike rack for your RV is to reflect on your biking habits. How often do you bike? What types of biking adventures do you prefer? The frequency of your biking adventures and the variety of bikes you own will significantly influence your choice. Moreover, the number of bikes you plan to carry can dictate the size and model of the rack, ensuring it matches your RV’s capacity and your ambitions on the road.

Benefits of Having a Bike Rack on Your RV

Installing a bike rack on your RV brings several key benefits. It offers a secure and streamlined way to transport your bikes, guaranteeing they’re always at hand for any impromptu or planned biking excursion. Additionally, it optimizes space within your RV, allowing for more efficient organization and storage of essentials. Specifically designed for RV use, these racks are engineered to endure the demands of travel, providing reassurance that your bikes are securely anchored throughout your journey.

Considerations Before Adding a Bike Rack to Your RV

Adding a bike rack to your RV requires thoughtful consideration. Evaluating the rack’s weight capacity against the weight of your bikes, ensuring compatibility with your RV model, and considering how the rack will affect access to your RV are all critical. The installation process and the rack’s design should align with your RV lifestyle and storage preferences. Opting for a design that complements your RV’s aerodynamics can further improve fuel efficiency, aligning with sustainable travel practices.

The decision to add a bike rack to your RV hinges on a detailed assessment of your biking needs, the tangible benefits it offers for your travel experience, and various logistical considerations. A carefully selected bike rack not only enhances convenience but also significantly enriches your travel, bringing your love for biking into every journey. It highlights the essence of preparedness and adaptability, ensuring that your biking adventures are seamlessly integrated into your RV lifestyle.

How To Choose The Right Bike Rack for Your RV

Choosing the right bike rack for your RV is pivotal to enhancing your travel experience and ensuring the safety and accessibility of your bicycles. With the myriad of options available, pinpointing the perfect rack that complements your RV lifestyle and meets your biking needs requires careful consideration. Here, we delve into the crucial factors to guide you in selecting the ideal RV bike rack, intertwining functionality with your love for adventure.

Compatibility With Your RV

Firstly, assess the compatibility of the bike rack with your RV. Not all racks fit every vehicle type, so it’s essential to verify that your choice aligns with your RV’s specifications. Whether you own a class A, B, or C motorhome, a travel trailer, or a fifth wheel, ensuring the rack can be securely attached is paramount.

Furthermore, consider the type of bikes you plan to carry. From mountain bikes and road bikes to e-bikes, each has its own set of requirements in terms of support and security. E-bike owners, in particular, should note the weight limit of the rack, as these bikes tend to be heavier than traditional models.

The number of bikes you wish to transport also plays a critical role in your decision. Whether you’re bringing along a pair for solo rides or enough for the entire family, ensure the rack can accommodate the quantity without compromising on safety or accessibility to your RV.

Installation and Accessibility for Your RV

Installation and accessibility are further considerations that can’t be overlooked. A rack that’s cumbersome to install or makes accessing your RV a challenge can detract from the overall convenience. Look for models that offer easy installation and hassle-free access to your RV’s cargo areas, even when the bikes are loaded.

Material durability is yet another critical aspect. Alloy steel and aluminum are preferred for their strength and resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring your rack withstands the elements and the rigors of the road.

Selecting the right bike rack for your RV is a nuanced process that requires balancing various factors. From compatibility with your RV, accommodating your bike types and quantities, to ensuring easy installation and robust durability, each element contributes to finding the perfect match. By prioritizing these considerations, you can embark on your adventures with confidence, knowing your bikes are securely and conveniently transported, ready for whatever trails or roads lie ahead.

Installation and Maintenance Process for RV Bike Racks

Ensuring the proper setup and upkeep of your RV bike rack is more than just a task; it’s a commitment to the safety of your bicycles and the integrity of your rack over time. A correctly installed bike rack provides peace of mind, securely transporting your bikes wherever your RV journey takes you. Moreover, adhering to a routine maintenance schedule prolongs the life of your bike rack, making it a dependable piece of equipment for your outdoor explorations and RV excursions. This guide delves into the essential steps for both installing and maintaining RV bike racks, catering to RV enthusiasts who value both the functionality and durability of their travel accessories.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

The process of installing an RV bike rack can be straightforward with the right instructions and a bit of patience. First and foremost, select a rack that aligns with your RV’s specifications and your cycling preferences, be it hitch-mounted, bumper-mounted, ladder-mounted, or roof-mounted. Assembly should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to the letter. Securely fasten the rack to your RV’s designated attachment point, ensuring all connections are tight and secure. For those opting for hitch-mounted racks, incorporating a hitch tightener can mitigate any wobble, enhancing stability. It’s crucial to ensure the rack is securely affixed and does not obscure any essential vehicle signage or lighting.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

The longevity of your RV bike rack hinges on consistent maintenance. Regular inspections for tightness in all connections are vital, as the vibrations from travel can lead to loosening. Lubricating moving parts not only wards off rust but also guarantees smooth functionality. A simple cleaning regimen, using mild soap and water, especially after exposure to harsh conditions, can stave off corrosion. Be vigilant for any signs of wear, such as cracks or the onset of rust, and address them immediately to avert further deterioration. Utilizing a bike rack cover when not in use can also offer additional protection from the elements.

Proper installation and meticulous maintenance are the cornerstones of leveraging the full potential of your RV bike rack. By embracing these practices, you secure a worry-free travel experience with your bikes safely in tow, enhancing your adventures. This dedication not only keeps your RV accessories in prime condition but also ensures you’re always prepared for the next adventure, be it boondocking in the wild or traversing scenic national parks.

Safety and Security Considerations

Ensuring the safety and security of your bicycles and RV during travel is paramount, especially when incorporating an RV bike rack into your setup. As you embark on adventures, the last thing you want is for your cycling plans to be thwarted by damaged equipment or compromised security. This segment delves into the essential safety and security considerations every RV enthusiast should prioritize when choosing and using an RV bike rack. By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure that both your bikes and your RV are protected, allowing you to focus on the joy of the journey and the thrill of exploring new trails.

Ensuring Safe Transit

The foundation of a worry-free journey lies in the safe transit of your bicycles. Opting for an RV bike rack with a robust anti-wobble system is crucial to minimize movement and prevent potential damage to your bikes or RV. Furthermore, selecting a rack that offers lockable features and sturdy construction aligns with best practices for RV camping and outdoor adventures, safeguarding your bikes against theft and loss. It’s also essential to regularly inspect the rack’s attachments to your RV, ensuring everything is tightly secured and that the bikes are mounted correctly before each trip.

Protecting Your Bikes and RV

Beyond ensuring the safe transit of your bikes, it’s vital to consider how the bike rack interacts with your RV. Choosing a rack that fits your specific RV model without causing undue stress on the vehicle’s structure is paramount. RV accessories like bumper-mounted racks should be used with caution to avoid damage to your RV’s bumper or frame. Additionally, employing bike covers and padding can prevent scratches and wear, both on your bikes and the areas of the RV that come into contact with the rack. This attention to detail not only preserves the appearance and integrity of your RV and bikes but also contributes to their longevity.

When it comes to integrating an RV bike rack into your travel setup, prioritizing safety and security is non-negotiable. By ensuring safe transit and protecting your bikes and RV, you safeguard your investment and peace of mind. This allows you to fully embrace the RV lifestyle, exploring national parks and boondocking sites with confidence. Remember, the right preparation and equipment are your best allies in creating memorable adventures without the worry, making every trip a seamless blend of exploration and enjoyment.

Maximizing Space and Efficiency

In the world of RV travel, where every inch of space counts and efficiency can impact the journey’s quality, selecting the right RV bike rack is crucial. This choice not only affects how you transport your bikes but also plays a significant role in maximizing the usability of your living space and improving your RV’s overall performance. Here, we explore essential strategies for maximizing space and enhancing aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, ensuring that your adventures are as enjoyable as they are practical.

Space-Saving Tips for Small RVs

For owners of small RVs, campervans , or conversion vans, finding a bike rack that doesn’t eat into precious living or storage space is a priority. Opting for foldable or detachable bike racks can be a game-changer, allowing you to reclaim the area when the rack is not in use. Vertical bike racks offer another space-efficient solution, utilizing the height of the RV to store bikes. Moreover, choosing a bike rack with a compact design that can carry multiple bikes in a tight configuration minimizes the footprint, leaving more room for other RV accessories and essentials.

Enhancing Aerodynamics and Fuel Efficiency

The design of your RV bike rack can significantly impact your vehicle’s aerodynamics and, consequently, its fuel efficiency. Hitch-mounted racks that allow bikes to be stored close to the RV’s body can reduce drag, as opposed to rear-mounted racks that may extend beyond the vehicle’s profile. Additionally, aerodynamic bike racks, designed with sleek lines to cut through the air, can further reduce resistance. Implementing bike covers that streamline the shape of the bikes being transported can also contribute to a smoother ride and lower fuel consumption, aligning with eco-friendly travel practices.

The journey to finding the perfect RV bike rack involves a careful balance between practicality and performance. By employing space-saving strategies and opting for racks that enhance your RV’s aerodynamics, you can significantly improve your RV camping experience. Furthermore, these considerations not only increase your living and storage space but also promote fuel efficiency, ensuring that your travels are as cost-effective as they are adventurous. Remember, the right RV bike rack can transform your travel experience, making every trip more enjoyable and efficient.

Accessorizing Your RV Bike Rack

Accessorizing your RV bike rack is not just about adding extra bits and pieces; it’s about enhancing the functionality, safety, and longevity of your biking equipment while on the road. With the right accessories, your RV bike rack can transform from a mere transport tool into a robust, versatile companion for all your outdoor adventures. In this detailed exploration, we delve into the essential accessories that elevate the utility of your bike rack and discuss how these additions can significantly improve both usability and protection for your bikes during travel.

Essential Accessories for RV Bike Racks

A few key accessories can make all the difference in how effectively your RV bike rack serves you. Locking cables and hitch locks ensure your bikes remain secure, deterring theft and providing peace of mind. Bike rack covers offer protection from the elements, keeping your bikes clean and dry, which is especially important for eco-friendly travel and maintaining your equipment in top condition. Additionally, bungee cords and straps can be invaluable for stabilizing bikes against movement or vibration during transit, ensuring they arrive at your destination just as they were when you set off.

Enhancing Usability and Protection

To further enhance the usability and protection offered by your RV bike rack, consider investing in frame adapters for unconventional bike frames, ensuring a secure fit for all types of bikes. Wheel stabilizers or cradle attachments can prevent bikes from swaying and hitting each other or the RV, minimizing the risk of damage. For those concerned about visibility, reflective tapes and lights can be added to the rack, improving safety during night travel. These accessories not only extend the life of your bike rack and bikes but also enhance the overall RV camping and travel experience, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead.

Accessorizing your RV bike rack is a step towards optimizing your RV travel experience. Essential accessories add layers of security, protection, and functionality, making every journey smoother and worry-free. Furthermore, by investing in these enhancements, you’re not just protecting your bikes; you’re ensuring that every aspect of your outdoor adventure—from boondocking in remote locations to exploring scenic routes—is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Remember, the right accessories are key to unlocking the full potential of your RV bike rack, making it an indispensable part of your RV lifestyle.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Navigating the journey with an RV bike rack can sometimes present unexpected challenges, both during the initial setup and over the course of its use. Understanding how to effectively troubleshoot common issues can greatly enhance your RV travel experience, ensuring that your adventures remain uninterrupted. This section is dedicated to addressing typical hurdles encountered with RV bike racks, offering practical solutions to both installation challenges and maintenance problems, thus keeping your focus on the joy of exploration and the freedom of the open road.

Common Installation Challenges

One of the first obstacles many RV enthusiasts face is the installation process. Issues such as incompatible hitch sizes, RV bumper limitations, or ladder strength can arise, hindering the smooth setup of your bike rack. To overcome these, always verify your RV’s specifications and the bike rack’s requirements before purchase. Adapters for hitches and reinforced mounting brackets can resolve compatibility issues, ensuring your bike rack fits securely. Furthermore, consulting the manufacturer’s installation guide or seeking advice from RV communities can provide additional insights and solutions.

Resolving Maintenance Problems

Maintaining an RV bike rack in top condition requires regular attention to prevent and resolve common maintenance problems. Rust, wear and tear, and loosened components due to vibration are frequent concerns. Regularly cleaning your rack, especially after exposure to harsh weather or salt, and applying protective coatings can combat rust. Checking and tightening all fasteners before each journey can prevent the loosening of parts. For wear and tear, inspect your rack periodically for any signs of damage or fatigue and replace any compromised parts promptly to maintain safety and functionality.

Effectively troubleshooting the common issues associated with RV bike racks not only enhances the longevity of your equipment but also ensures the safety of your bikes during transit. By addressing installation challenges and maintenance problems head-on, you can enjoy seamless adventures, confident in the knowledge that your biking gear is secure. Remember, a well-maintained bike rack is a key component of a successful RV camping experience, enabling you to explore the great outdoors with your bikes in tow, ready for whatever trails or roads lie ahead.

Wrapping It Up!

In the realm of RV travel, the inclusion of a bike rack emerges not just as a convenience but as a pivotal component that significantly enhances the overall travel experience. From the initial selection process to installation and ongoing maintenance, the journey of choosing and utilizing an RV bike rack is marked by considerations of safety, space optimization, and efficiency. Furthermore, the ability to securely transport your bikes opens up a world of exploration and fitness opportunities, seamlessly integrating the joys of biking into the fabric of your RV lifestyle.

The importance of selecting the right bike rack—one that aligns with your specific RV type, biking preferences, and travel needs—cannot be overstated. Whether navigating the installation challenges or addressing maintenance concerns, each step taken ensures that your adventures on the road are both safe and fulfilling. The accessories and troubleshooting tips highlighted throughout underscore the commitment to not just enduring the journey but thriving in it.

Moreover, the incorporation of a bike rack speaks to a broader theme of adventure and exploration, enabling RV enthusiasts to embrace the spontaneity of discovering new trails and scenic routes. It enhances the RV camping experience, offering a blend of mobility and convenience that is unparalleled.

In conclusion, the journey of selecting, installing, and maintaining an RV bike rack is integral to maximizing the enjoyment and possibilities of RV travel. It’s a testament to the adventurous spirit of those who seek to explore the open road and beyond, offering a seamless bridge between the freedom of the road and the thrill of the trail. As such, an RV bike rack stands as an essential ally in the quest for adventure, ensuring that your travels are as limitless as your passion for exploration.

Related FAQs

Can bike racks be used on all types of rvs.

Yes, bike racks are designed to fit various types of RVs, including motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels, but always check compatibility.

How Much Weight Can RV Bike Racks Typically Support?

RV bike racks can typically support between 35 to 200 pounds, depending on the model and design.

Are There Bike Racks That Can Carry Electric Bikes on RVs?

Yes, there are bike racks specifically designed to carry heavier electric bikes on RVs, featuring robust construction.

Can I Install a Bike Rack on the RV’s Ladder?

Yes, ladder-mounted bike racks are available, but ensure your RV’s ladder can safely support the weight of the bikes.

Is It Necessary to Remove the Bikes from the Rack When Not Traveling?

While not strictly necessary, removing bikes when not traveling can reduce wear on the rack and prevent potential theft.

rv travel trailer bike rack

As outdoor enthusiasts ourselves, we understand the significance of reliable gear that can withstand the elements and support you throughout your journey. Our honest and transparent reviews of essential outdoor gadgets and products are rooted in real-world testing and experience. We take great satisfaction in offering unbiased evaluations, ensuring that you can make informed decisions when investing in outdoor gear. As an affiliate website, we may earn a small commission from some of the products we feature. However, rest assured that our opinions are not influenced by this, and your trust is always our top priority.

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

rv travel trailer bike rack

Writen by Tom Hank

rv travel trailer bike rack

Fact checked by Joseph Varney

best-rv-bike-rack

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.

rv travel trailer bike 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

rv travel trailer 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

rv travel trailer 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

rv travel trailer 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

rv travel trailer bike 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

rv travel trailer 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

rv travel trailer bike 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

rv travel trailer 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

rv travel trailer 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

rv travel trailer bike rack

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

rv 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

electric-bike-rack-for-rv

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.

best-bike-rack-for-rv

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.

Joseph-Varney

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.

RV Talk

Last updated on: March 18, 2022

The 11 Best RV Bike Racks for the Money in 2022

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by Chris Coleman

www.rvtalk.net is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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.

travel trailer bike rack

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

Swagman LADDER RACK RV Approved

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

Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack - Easily Installs on Standard RV Ladders, Holds Two Bikes at Once,...

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  

Swagman Bicycle Carrier TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack , Black

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

Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2-Inch Receiver) , Black

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

Let's Go Aero - 429756 Jack-It Double Bike Carrier System

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

Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack

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

Swagman 64684 Dispatch Platform Bike Rack - 2-Bike, Grey, 2'

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

Quick Products QPRBM2R RV Bumper-Mounted 2-Bike Rack with Adjustable Width and Stabilizer Post

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

Surco 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack

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

Swagman RV Approved Around the Spare Deluxe Bike Rack

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

bike racks for camper

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.

bike carrier for travel trailer

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.

rv bike rack reviews

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

best bike racks for 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
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  • Best RV Propane Tank Gauges

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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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HYPERAX Volt RV -Approved Hitch Mounted 2 E Bike Rack Carrier for RV,Camper,Motorhome,Trailer,Toad with 2" Class 3 or Higher Hitch Receivers -Fits Up to 2X 70lbs E Bikes with Up to 5" Fat Tires

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HYPERAX Volt RV -Approved Hitch Mounted 2 E Bike Rack Carrier for RV,Camper,Motorhome,Trailer,Toad with 2" Class 3 or Higher Hitch Receivers -Fits Up to 2X 70lbs E Bikes with Up to 5" Fat Tires

2023 VOLT RV

VOLT RV lite

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

  • EXCLUSIVE DESIGN FOR RV: This series features a strengthened hitch mount designed carrier to fit Class 3 or higher hitch receivers (front and/or back), giving you extra safety on the road. Please note that hitch receivers must be CHASSIS MOUNTED. Mount the hitch rack to BUMPER MOUNTED HITCH RECEIVER may lead to bumper tearing off and result in SERIOUS DAMAGE to the RV and even DEADLY INJURY. Caution: Due to tight space, please do not install the Volt RV between front vehicle and the trailer.
  • 140 LB TOTAL CAPACITY: Supports up to 70 pounds per rack, our rack is compatible with mountain bikes, electric bikes, road bikes with up to 5-inch fat tires, and up to 58-inch wheelbase. For step thru or lady bikes, bike adapter required (not included)
  • SAFE AND SECURE: Comes with co-injected soft rubberized ratcheting hooks that secure the frame of your bike in place without scratching the metal surface. Featuring dual key locks to prevent bikes and bike rack from being stolen. Adjustable wheel holders allow you to easily accommodate bikes of different sizes. Tighten the wheels with reflective velcro straps that help improve visibility in the dark. Additional security straps included, ensuring your bike stays firmly on the rack
  • CARRYING HANDLE / INTEGRATED WALL MOUNT: When the rack is fully removed from the vehicle and folded up, simply grab the carrying handle to easily move the rack around. The integrated storage hook allows you to hang the rack on the wall, saving you valuable space
  • FITS 2 INCH HITCH RECEIVER: Works with vehicles with 2-inch class 3 receivers and above. Secured by an anti-wobble ½ inch steel pin and a key lockset (Patent pending), the rack is sturdy and built to last.
  • TIRE TRAY LIMITATION: FIT 20" TO 29" WHEELS, AND 1" TO 5" TIRE WIDTH
  • Two bike rack converts to one bike rack easily by removing one set of wheel holders

rv travel trailer bike rack

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Product description.

VOLT RV

HYPERAX RV Compatible E Bike Rack Carrier / VOLT RV

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About Hyperax

Hyperax gets your gear to the places that define you: mountains, rivers, trailheads, campsites, or outdoor destinations. We build sturdy, easy to use racks that transport lifestyle gears with features that make your outdoor life easier. Our roof and hitch racks are engineered with a with a durable box beam construction that will last for years, enriching your life with defining moments, journey after journey.

HYPERAX Hitch Mounted Bike Rack for RV / Volt RV

140lb max load.

Featuring a strengthened hitch mount, designed to fit Class 3 or higher hitch receivers, Hyperax bike rack gives you extra safety on the road. Enjoy your camping trips on your RV trailer, and let us do the heavy lifting.

  • Designed For Camper RV Trailer
  • 140lb Max Load (70lb per side)
  • 2” Class 3 Hitch Receiver Compatible
  • 2 Bike Capacity
  • Comes with Pin Lock and Frame Lock
  • High Carbon Steel Construction

volt rv

Product information

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

  • Safety strap
  • Hitch pin lockset & key

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the performance, quality and fit of the transport rack. For example, they mention it works great, is solidly built and easy to assemble. That said, opinions are mixed on the lock and weight.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the transport rack. They mention it's very solidly built, holds bikes great, and is beefy. They also say it'll hold their e-bikes perfectly and is easy to assemble and mount on their trailer hitch.

"...It's very solidly built , easy to use, fits into our trailer hitch, is easy/intuitive to use and comes with all the straps etc...." Read more

"Pricey, but a well designed, manufactured and packaged. Beefy , with tight-fitting parts-no slop and no wobble...." Read more

"This rack seems to be what they advertised. It's very strong and safe...." Read more

"Excellent product, good quality material ." Read more

Customers find the transport rack easy to assemble. They say the instructions are easy to follow, and the rack is sturdy. They also mention that the instructions in the booklet are nice to follow.

"...solidly built, easy to use, fits into our trailer hitch, is easy/intuitive to use and comes with all the straps etc. to secure your valuable bikes...." Read more

"...Ramp makes it easy to load/unload my two large 70 lb e-bikes. Only issue (other than price) is weight...." Read more

"...Easy company to deal with. Easy to assemble and mount the bikes on the rack." Read more

"...I think it’s pretty easy to put onto your RV but again would not have been for me, scrambling around on the ground, and twisting myself in..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the bike rack. They mention that it is easy to assemble, works great, and holds their bikes well. Some say that it works great for a few months, and others say that they have used it for e-bikes. Overall, most are happy with the quality and performance of this travel trailer-rated rack.

"...Overall, great rack, very strong, practical and we're glad to own it." Read more

" Excellent product , good quality material." Read more

"...This bike rack worked great for a few months . While traveling home from our last RV road trip my wife's bike almost fell off the rack...." Read more

"...That’s just a minor flaw, it is well built, it traveled on a motorhome well and was easy to load the ebikes...." Read more

Customers like the fit of the transport rack. They say it's easy to adjust for different bike sizes, and it holds bikes great and firm. Some mention that it fits into their trailer hitch and that it folds up so it're not so big.

"...It's very solidly built, easy to use, fits into our trailer hitch , is easy/intuitive to use and comes with all the straps etc...." Read more

"... Actually fits 4 bikes . Families bikes usually mean you need a 5 bike rack and a degree in jenga...." Read more

"...Tires one 1 are 5" wide. This carrier accomodates both bikes with no issue ...." Read more

"...about, the rails/ramps are horizontal to the ground...so it won't fit through a doorway ...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the security of the bike transport rack. They mention that it holds bikes still, doesn't wobble, and is well-made. The locking slides are prone to jamming when pulled too tight. The threaded pin gives it extra stability.

"...Beefy, with tight-fitting parts-no slop and no wobble . Ramp makes it easy to load/unload my two large 70 lb e-bikes...." Read more

"...the purchase and feel like the bike rack adequately carries and supports the bikes ." Read more

"...But like I said it is well made and sturdy and does lock the bikes securely in place ." Read more

"...My fat bike tires fit right in and the hook secures it quite well ...." Read more

Customers like the value of the bike rack. They say it's an excellent investment for your bikes, car, truck, or motor home. Some say it holds 2 65lb ebikes securely.

"... Worth the money !" Read more

"Very Durable and Great Price ! Highly Recommend !" Read more

"...I’ve experienced poorly designed racks. This one is by far the best for the money .I put my very expensive bikes on this rack with confidence." Read more

"...This bike rack is an excellent investment for your bikes , car, truck or motor home. Please check with the manufacturer on that last statement...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the lock of the transport rack. Some mention that the hook bars not only secure both bikes but lock as well. They say that it has a lock feature built in so no one can remove it without unlocking it. However, others say that the locking mechanism was a bitch to unlock, the locks are a little testy, and the hand turn locks do not hold.

"...Good news is the rack has two sets: each bike arm is lockable to deter people from swiping the bikes off your rack and then there is another lock..." Read more

"...If I had one issue to complain about it would be the built in locks . They work but they are a bit tough to turn...." Read more

"...It's very strong and safe. The locking brackets hold my bikes down but I always put an extra strap just to be sure...." Read more

"...The hitch is also not user friendly to secure and takes quite some time to get the locking pin secured...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the weight of the transport rack. Some mention that it seems heavy and sturdy, while others say that it's relatively lightweight for the size and strength. The handle allows you to easily carry and store this rack when not in use.

"...Positives:- Relatively lightweight for the size and strength- Easy to lock down bikes-..." Read more

"...The handle allows you to easily carry and store this rack when not in use. On inspection, all parts went together well...." Read more

"Electric bikes, very strong and sturdy, a little heavy " Read more

"... Handles the weight of the bikes well ." Read more

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Best Bumper & Ladder RV Bike Racks (Camper & Trailer) 2024

best-bumper-and-ladder-rv-bike-racks-camper-trailer

What Are Bumper RV Bike Racks?

Some travel trailers, pop-up campers, and small RVs don’t have a hitch receiver for an RV bike rack.

You can buy one that clamps onto the bumper like the Towever bumper hitch receiver (click to view on Amazon) and get an RV hitch bike rack, or you can go with a bumper bike rack that clamps directly to the bumper.

RV bumper mount bike racks work well and they are a more basic option when compared to receiver hitch bike racks.

I have a bumper RV bike rack on my travel trailer because I didn’t want to install a hitch receiver, and I needed something that would fit over my spare tire.

It was easy to install and both of our large mountain bikes fit perfectly. So far we’ve been happy with it and had zero issues.

Related Product: Check out the Swagman Bumper Bike Rack (click to view on Amazon) here.

Bumper RV bike rack on the back of a travel trailer

What Are Ladder RV Bike Racks?

Some RVs don’t have a bumper you can clamp a bike rack around, but many motorhomes, travel trailers, and 5th-wheels have ladders.

If you want to use that ladder space, you can get a ladder RV bike rack that hangs from the already installed ladder.

You can even use these to hang chairs and other camping gear from, so there’s a multi-use capability.

You hang your bikes vertically from it, so if you prefer the horizontal way you should go with a bumper mount style or a hitch receiver one.

This is a review of the best bumper and ladder RV bike racks you can get for a motorhome, pop-up camper, 5th-wheel, or travel trailer.

Even if you have a ladder, you may decide on a bumper bike rack. Each kind has its benefits and I’m here to help you decide which is best for you.

If you prefer a hitch receiver mount bike rack for your RV you can check out the best ones in this article here.

Summary (Links to Amazon)

  • Best for RVs with Bumper Mounted Spare Tires – Swagman Around The Spare Delux RV Bike Rack
  • Best Bumper Mount Platform Style – Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack with Bumper Mount Adapter
  • Best RV Ladder Bike Rack – Swagman Ladder RV Bike Rack

Table of Contents show What Are Bumper RV Bike Racks? What Are Ladder RV Bike Racks? Bumper Mount RV Bike Racks Reviews & Info 1. Swagman Around The Spare Delux RV Bike Rack 2. Quick Products Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack 3. Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack with Bumper Mount Adapter RV Ladder Bike Rack Reviews & Info 1. Swagman Ladder RV Bike Rack 2. Camco RV Ladder Bike Rack What To Look For In An RV Bike Rack Conclusion & My RV Bike Rack Recommendations Best RV Bike Rack For Back Spare Tire Best Platform RV Bumper Bike Rack Best Ladder RV Bike Rack Frequently Asked Questions About RV Bike Racks Are RV ladder bike racks safe? Can I put a bike rack on my travel trailer? Are hitch mount RV bike racks better? What is the easiest RV bike rack to use? How much weight can an RV bumper hold?

Swagman RV Approved Around the Spare Deluxe Bike Rack

Best For Spare Tire

Best Platform Style

Best For Ladder

Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Bumper Mount RV Bike Racks Reviews & Info

1. swagman around the spare delux rv bike rack.

Check Price at Amazon

The Swagman spare tire RV bike rack carries up to two bikes and is one of the few around the spare tire bumper mount bike racks for RVs, travel trailers, and pop-up campers on the market today.

It secures bikes horizontally using two anti-sway cradles that use 4 thick rubber straps for each bike.

It mounts around most RV spare tires and fits onto 4 to 4.5-inch steel bumpers. It can carry up to two bikes that weigh up to 30 lbs each.

This is the one I have for my travel trailer. I got it because my spare tire is also mounted to the bumper and it takes up a lot of space.

It didn’t seem possible to put another bike rack next to the spare tire, and Swagman is one of the only companies that make an around the spare RV bike rack.

See Also:  Best Lightweight Hiking & Backpacking Chairs Reviewed

It was easy to install and fit around the spare tire like a dream.

There’s plenty of room for our 2 mountain bikes and as an added security, I strap the bikes, the bike rack, and the spare tire together, which makes everything solid and very secure.

I highly recommend the Swagman Around the Spare Delux RV Bike Rack to those who have a bumper with a spare tire mounted to it behind their camper or travel trailer.

It makes it so you can easily see the license plate even with 2 bikes on the back there and it’s not too crowded.

To top it all off, it’s also very budget-friendly.

  • Fits Around Spare Tire
  • Can Strap Bikes To Rack & Spare Tire Mount
  • Durable Rubber Straps
  • Anti-Sway Cradles
  • Won’t Scratch Bike Frames
  • Fantastic Basic Option
  • No Hitch Insert Required
  • Front Bike Tires Need To Be Removed To Fit Right
  • May Bend Forward If Bikes Exceed Weight Limit
  • Must Remove Entire Bike Rack To Use Spare Tire

2. Quick Products Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack

Some people dislike the kind of bike rack where you hang the bike from the frame, and I get that.

There are stories of bikes flying off them on the freeway or having their frames dented.

While I think adding a couple of straps is a good way to stop that from happening, sometimes having a platform RV bike rack gives peace of mind.

Normally a platform bike rack, where the bikes stand on something instead of hanging, is the more premium option.

But because we are mounting the RV bike rack to a bumper, Quick Products has made a secure platform bike rack that is very budget-friendly and easy to install.

The way it works is you get two separate steel platforms that mount to a 4-4.5 inch camper bumper.

The cool thing about this RV bike rack is you can change the distance between the platforms, making it custom to your bike’s length.

See Also:  Best Pop Up Screen Tents & Camping Shelters

Each platform has slots for holding bike tires. One platform has a stabilizer bar you can use to secure the bikes.

The only downside to the slots is fat tire bikes and wheels over 29 inches will not fit in them. Most standard mountain and road bikes will fit fine though.

The platform RV bike rack can carry up to two bikes weighing up to 30 lbs each.

The Quick Products Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack is an excellent product for RVs with no hitch receiver.

But if you have a spare tire mounted to the bumper like a lot of RVs, travel trailers, and pop-up campers, make sure it won’t be in the way.

You may need to move the spare tire or make adjustments to make it fit.

  • Secure Platform Style
  • Can Customize Length
  • No Risk Of Denting Bike Frame
  • No Hitch Receiver Required
  • Front Bike Tired Don’t Need To Be Removed
  • Won’t Work For Fat Tire Bikes
  • May Not Work With Bumper Mounted Spare Tire
  • Vertical Secure Post Not Padded

3. Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack with Bumper Mount Adapter

The Swagman Traveler is technically a platform hitch receiver RV bike rack, but I added it to this bumper mount bike rack review because it comes with a bumper hitch receiver adapter.

It still mounts to an RV bumper, but the bike rack can also be removed simply by pulling a pin like a hitch receiver RV bike rack.

The huge pro to this camper bike rack is you can also use it on your tow vehicle, which comes in handy if you want to take your bikes to a trail or town for exploring.

It’s easier to take bikes on and off of than the simple bumper mount platform RV bike rack reviewed above because it requires no straps and has a better vertical bar and clamp secure system.

There are a lot of features on this RV bike rack that make it user friendly and a fantastic choice for travel trailers or campers.

See Also: 6 Best Roll-Up Camping Tables For Dining & All-Around Use

First, after you’ve installed the bumper mount hitch receiver, you can take the bike rack off easily.

The stabilizer bar that sticks up in the middle also folds down if you need quick access to rear storage or if it’s blocking the view.

The bumper mount part is compatible with 4-4.5 inch RV bumpers and uses a 2 inch receiver. The receiver is a good size because it’s probably the same size your tow vehicle has.

Once you unhitch your trailer, you can transfer the bike rack to your tow vehicle so you can transport your bikes that way.

The platform’s wheelbase is up to 52 inches, it can take tire widths from 0.5 – 3 inches, and each bike can weigh up to 35 lbs.

The upright arm uses two padded hooks to clamp onto the bike frame for a quick and very secure connection.

Swagman Bicycle Carrier TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack...

The only downside to this platform RV bike rack is the bikes will be close to the back of the camper.

If you have a large rear window, the handlebars of the bikes may bump up against it, which may shatter your window while you’re driving.

This is only a problem for a few kinds of RVs. It shouldn’t be an issue for most people, but it is something to think about if your camper has a rear window.

The Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack with Bumper Mount Adapter is very versatile because you can use it on your tow vehicle and the back of your camper.

The vertical secure bars are padded and easier to use than the strap down systems.

All things considered, this really is one of the best RV bike racks you can get for 2 bikes.

  • Safe & Secure Platform Style
  • Bumper Mount Hitch Receiver Included
  • Can Be Used On Vehicles With 2 Inch Receivers
  • Fast & Easy To Use
  • High Weight Capacity
  • Center Bar Folds Down
  • Doesn’t Fit Well With Bumper Mounted Spare Tires
  • May Not Work With Low Rear Windows

RV Ladder Bike Rack Reviews & Info

1. swagman ladder rv bike rack.

Ladder mount RV bike racks are a simple way to go if you have a ladder on your camper.

The Swagman RV ladder bike rack is very simple to install. Just hook it onto your ladder.

The aluminum rack is very lightweight and has two arms that stick out for you to hang your bikes on.

There are two anti-sway rubber cradles for each bike with a rubber strap on them to secure the frame. That’s two rubber secure straps per bike.

The Swagman ladder rack can hold two bikes up to 35 lbs each.

The bikes will hang vertically off the ladder, so make sure you place the rack high enough so the bikes will have space to hang.

See Also: 5 Most Portable RV Waste Tanks Reviewed & Rated For Travel

I recommend using a strap or bungee to secure the bikes to the ladder as well for added security. You can never be too careful.

You can also use it to hang chairs and other camping gear, which makes it versatile and multi-functional.

The Swagman Ladder RV Bike Rack is simple to set up, but it can be harder to take bikes on and off because they are mounted higher up.

It saves a lot of space and you can secure bikes to your trailer by using the rest of the ladder as anchor points.

It even works well for campers that have a spare tire on the back.

If you want to turn your RV ladder into a bike rack, the Swagman is one of the best options for RVers out there.

  • Easy Install
  • Takes Up Less Space Behind RV
  • Works With Rear Mounted Spare Tires
  • Lightweight
  • Low Weight Capacity
  • Must Also Strap Bikes To Ladder To Make It Secure Enough
  • Must Remove Bikes To Use Ladder

2. Camco RV Ladder Bike Rack

Camco also makes an easy to install RV ladder bike rack.

There’s even a handy feature that makes it so you can fold the rack arms up so you can use the ladder while the bike rack is still on it.

It’s a little heavier than the Swagman reviewed above because it’s made of steel and not aluminum.

The steel makes the parts themselves stronger, but the hinge at the elbow used to fold up the arms weakens it slightly.

It can’t handle over 2 bikes weighing 30 lbs each.

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There are two form-fitting rubber cradles for each bike that have a rubber strap. That’s two rubber straps per bike.

The bikes hang vertically from this RV bike rack.

Like the Swagman RV ladder bike rack, you can secure the bikes to the ladder at multiple points for extra security when driving down bumpy roads.

The Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack is another lightweight and basic RV bike rack that saves a lot of space on the back of your trailer or RV.

Taking bikes on and off of it is a little more difficult, but sometimes it’s worth it to save on space and weight.

  • Arms Fold Up

bike that was transported using a bumper mounted rv bike rack on a motorhome

What To Look For In An RV Bike Rack

Travel trailers and RVs can only be so wide and bikes can fill up that space quickly, especially if you have more than one.

There’s often a spare tire you have to worry about back there too, and don’t forget about the license plate.

Most states require the license plate to be visible on an RV or trailer.

For more info about license plates on recreational vehicles by state, check out this table here .

Number of Bikes

For bumper and ladder mounted RV bike racks, they are usually only for up to 2 bikes.

You can find some for more than just 2, but they normally aren’t very secure.

If you need a bike rack for over 2 bikes, I suggest getting a hitch mount bike rack instead ( click here to go to best hitch mount RV bike rack article )

Weight matters for RVs, campers, and travel trailers.

You don’t want a bike rack to weigh too much and you don’t want your bikes to go over the total weight limit rating.

Most bike racks can take bikes that are 30-35 lbs.

If you have ebikes or just hefty bikes, you may need to get a heavy-duty platform bike rack that has a very high weight capacity.

Just make sure it’s rated to be used on the back of an RV.

Secure Straps

Most of these RV bike racks come with rubber secure straps.

I think just a few rubber straps aren’t enough security for going down a freeway or a bumpy washboard road.

I always take an extra ratchet strap and secure my bikes to the rack and the spare tire.

It also keeps my bikes from swaying and protects the frame of the bike.

Some platform RV bike racks have a heavy-duty hook that clamps down the bike.

These are nice because they are very secure and make it easy to take the bike on and off.

If you don’t want to mess with extra straps or just want to know that your bikes will not fall off a platform bike rack is a good way to go.

Conclusion & My RV Bike Rack Recommendations

There are three basic kinds of RV bike racks out there.

The classic hitch receiver style you can read more about in this article here (click to view) , the kind that bolts right to the bumper, and the ones that hang off of the RV ladder.

Deciding on the right style for you mostly depends on what the back of your camper looks like.

If there is a large bumper mounted spare tire back there, you may want to consider getting the around the spare RV bike rack by Swagman.

If your RV has a ladder you want to use, that option is there as well.

If you have lightweight road bikes that dent easily, the platform style might be the safer option.

No matter what your RV bike rack needs are, the good news is there are lots to choose from. Here are my recommendations.

Best RV Bike Rack For Back Spare Tire

Swagman Around the Spare Delux RV Bike Rack

Tons of trailers and campers have a spare tire mounted to the bumper. That’s why the Swagman around the spare RV bike rack is my first recommendation.

It’s easy to install, and it works with the spare tire instead of against it.

The mounting bracket used to secure spare tires to the rear of an RV is usually very heavy duty and is a fantastic anchor to strap your bikes to for extra security.

Because it’s mounted around the spare tire, there’s no risk of the bikes hitting the rear of the camper, which is a big pro if your RV has a large rear window.

Saving space by mounting bikes around the spare tire is genius and it makes this RV bike rack even better for pop-up campers, travel trailers, and 5th-wheels.

I highly recommend it for anyone with a spare tire on the back of their camper.

Best Platform RV Bumper Bike Rack

Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack with Bumper Mount Adapter

Sometimes the platform option is the better way to go, especially if you don’t like hanging your bikes for fear of damaging the frame.

The Swagman Traveler has platforms for two bikes and is a fantastic lightweight option.

The main thing that makes this one of the best RV bike racks is the high quality padded lock bars you use to anchor the bikes to the platforms.

It also can be used in a vehicle’s hitch receiver, which really comes in handy because campgrounds can be far from the local towns or mountain bike trails you may want to explore.

Best Ladder RV Bike Rack

Swagman Ladder RV Bike Rack

The Swagman may not fold up like the Camco, but it’s very easy to remove if you need to move it out of the way.

I like how lightweight it is. Sometimes simple is better, and that’s exactly what this RV ladder bike rack is.

A lot of RVers buy these for more than just bikes.

You can hang chairs, ladders, and other camping gear from them and you can get multiple racks to hang from the same ladder for lots of storage options.

Just make sure you don’t go over the recommended weight limit since it is made of aluminum, which isn’t as strong as steel

bikes mounted to a travel trailer using a spare tire bumper mount rv bike rack

Frequently Asked Questions About RV Bike Racks

Are rv ladder bike racks safe.

Like any bike rack, the RV ladder kind is safe, if used correctly.

They often have lower weight capacities than regular bike racks and you need to be careful not to go over what the manufacturer recommends.

One way you can make mounting bikes to an RV ladder bike rack safer is to strap or bungee your bikes to different parts of the ladder as well.

This not only stops them from moving around, it also adds some backup security in case any part of the RV bike rack fails.

Can I put a bike rack on my travel trailer?

Yes, there are many styles of RV bike racks you can put on the back of a travel trailer.

If it has a ladder, there is an RV bike rack for that. If the bumper is strong enough, you can mount one directly to that.

Last but not least, you can also have a hitch insert installed on the frame and use an RV approved hitch receiver bike rack ( click here to go to post on the best hitch RV bike racks ).

Are hitch mount RV bike racks better?

Hitch mount RV bike racks are normally considered the more premium option when it comes to camper bike racks.

They are nice because they can also be used on the back of your tow vehicle and they are easy to install if your camper already has a hitch receiver.

That being said, they aren’t necessarily better for every kind of camper.

Sometimes a ladder or bumper mount RV bike rack will work better depending on things like the spare tire location, windows, and storage compartments.

Also, not just any hitch mount bike rack will work on the back of an RV.

It has to be an RV approved bike rack since the forces are stronger behind large vehicles and a more heavy duty bike rack is required.

What is the easiest RV bike rack to use?

The platform style RV bike racks with vertical clamp bars are the easiest and fasted to use.

Most of them don’t require any extra straps and the hitch receiver ones can be removed quickly by releasing a pin.

How much weight can an RV bumper hold?

Trying to figure out how much an RV or trailer bumper can hold is often a topic for discussion since not many RV manufacturers give out exact information.

The general consensus seems to be 150 lbs on 4 by 4 inch RV bumpers, but some ultra light travel trailers have bumpers that are not made to take any weight at all.

The best thing to do is to look at how the bumper on your RV is connected to the frame.

If it has thick steel and good welds, chances are it will be able to handle a few bikes.

Make sure you test it before you start driving. You don’t want to end up dragging your bikes and bumper down the road.

Have questions about RV bike racks? Leave a comment below.

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  3. How to Find the Best RV Bike Rack for You

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  4. Arvika RV Bike Racks carry your bicycles on RVs and fifth wheels

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VIDEO

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  6. How to install the Best E-Bike Rack For Your RV, Camper, Motorhome for Under $300. Fat-bike, ebike

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    Bumper Mount RV Bike Racks Reviews & Info. 1. Swagman Around The Spare Delux RV Bike Rack. Check Price at Amazon. The Swagman spare tire RV bike rack carries up to two bikes and is one of the few around the spare tire bumper mount bike racks for RVs, travel trailers, and pop-up campers on the market today.

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