Forum Discussion

Habs33's avatar
Habs33
Explorer
Oct 11, 2013

custom bike rack

Got tired of strapping bikes to the rear of my trailer, so I came up with a cheaper version of the Arvika bike carrier which retails in the $500 range and puts bikes on top of the propane tanks. Cost me about $20 for 4 supports I found at Princess Auto called stake pockets. Cut and fit a bunch of 2/4's, painted them up and will fasten the bike holders to the top. Likely have 3 but might try and fit 4 bikes. Has enough clearance top open front bunk. The unit also is removable so can store indoors for winter to keep dry and also access propane tanks when needed.









  • Glendale_290's avatar
    Glendale_290
    Explorer
    Dec 07, 2013
    Just to comment on the screws in the frame.....when you in stall one or two sway controls on your A frame it can amount to 8- 12 screw holes depending on brand and model.(usually installed by an rv dealer) The holes do not go through both walls of the A frame. Looking at the pictures of the mod done hear it looks to be about the same. I would suggest spraying a rust inhibitor now and again to keep the screw holes from starting to rust.

    Lou
  • 7mm's avatar
    7mm
    Explorer
    Dec 04, 2013
    Looks good. Does anyone else have any comments on the holes drilled in the frame, if it is okay or not? Do you have any pictures of it set up with the bikes on it? I would really like to see what it looks like with the bike.
  • Habs33's avatar
    Habs33
    Explorer
    Oct 24, 2013
    This is screwed together. Appreciate the cross bracing idea I have not yet fastened bikes to it so will assess how much it moves then. thanks for the suggestion
  • workhardplayha1's avatar
    workhardplayha1
    Explorer
    Oct 11, 2013
    I would consider cross bracing it. With the weight on top there is going to be quite a bit of movement which will loosen the joints. Is it nailed or screwed?
  • popupcamping's avatar
    popupcamping
    Explorer
    Oct 11, 2013
    nice looking Mod. Great job. I did the same thing looking for a rack for my pup for my canoe. To buy something made was well over 500. About 30 in lumber and built it myself even better. And as you said if it breaks or rots you are out less than 5 bucks.
  • Habs33's avatar
    Habs33
    Explorer
    Oct 11, 2013
    I meant to post this in mods and not put in separate pictures...still learning! Yes the wood might not last years, however it is sealed (painted) and will stay dry when camping and the bunk end is covering it. And I can store indoors during other periods. 2x4's are also cheap to replace if/when needed.
  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Oct 11, 2013
    You don't have to keep making a anew thread every time you post a pic. Just add it to this one.
    Looks good but wood wouldn't hold up very long around here.
  • lawrosa's avatar
    lawrosa
    Explorer
    Oct 11, 2013
    Geez.... I dont think you should of screwed anything into the tongue of the frame...

    I think you just weakened it doing that. Wait for the pros but IMO I dont think it should have been done.

    Its a good idea on paper though?

About Travel Trailer Group

44,027 PostsLatest Activity: Mar 05, 2025