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gsdcajun's avatar
gsdcajun
Explorer
Jul 19, 2015

hitch mounted bike rack

We have a Swagman XTC2 bike rack, usually mounted in 2" hitch reciever on mini van.
This model can be mounted in 1 1/4" or 2" hitch receiver.
Both bike shop(where we purchased bikes and rack) and Sawgman recommend not using this rack on a 36 foot class A motorhome, because it has a 1 1/4" steel arm instead of a 2" steel arm.

They claim the rack will not with stand the extra bouncing associated with being mounted on back of motorhomes.

I see a lot of standard bike racks(1 1/4"- 2" combo bar) hitch mounted on various lengths and models of RV's.

I don't want to have to purchase another bike rack.

Any advise and GS members experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Grant
Class A
  • Dick_B's avatar
    Dick_B
    Explorer
    Jul 19, 2015
    We have a Saris Cycleon with 2 inch post on which we carry two adult bikes; rather heavy. I thought about getting a new one but it also has a 1 1/4 post which I thought was not strong enough based on the bouncing that ours does on the front of our TV.
    Part of the decision is based on the weight of the bikes. Our two bikes weigh around 70 lbs. Two really lightweight bikes might be half of that which might be OK for the 1 1/4 inch post.
    Somewhere I read that the manufacturer would not replace a broken rack because it was installed on a Class A. Seems weak but that's what I remember.
  • MountainAir05's avatar
    MountainAir05
    Explorer II
    Jul 19, 2015
    This is what our son uses on his car and our RV.

    http://www.yakima.com/shop/bike/hitch/
  • falconman's avatar
    falconman
    Explorer
    Jul 19, 2015
    Not sure what your asking. Seems the mfgr and the bike shop are telling you it's not a good idea. Are you looking for someone to tell you it's OK? You have three choices, use and take your chances, sell it and buy another, or maybe taking to a welder and have it strengthened.
  • Effy's avatar
    Effy
    Explorer II
    Jul 20, 2015
    Been using my swagman for over a year now on the back of our mh with no issues. Seems pretty solid build. I can't imagine much different results with 4 more feet. Sounds like no one wants to be liable.

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