bike racks on top of popups

[tdischino]

Hello,

I have been reading a lot of these forums to prepare for a purchase. I've seen some pre-owned popups with bike racks mounted on the roof. I am going to have a couple bikes, and putting them ON TOP of the popup would sure save some space. However I am concerned as to if this is recommended or not. I worry about leaks, as well as the weight. So a couple questions...

• Are the roof frames strong enough for this?
• Has anyone done this?
• Are there specific brands of trailer or racks that work better for this?

Thanks!

[patperry2766]

http://home.comcast.net/~aslag54/bike_rack.html


I too want a bike rack, but I don't want to perm. attach it to the roof. This is about the best option for me that I have found

[Dick_B]

You see it all the time. If you fill the holes with caulk leakage should not be a problem. Two bikes and racks should be less than 50 lbs. I'm guessing.

[tatest]

I've seen a roof reinforcement for bike racks listed as a feature or option for some models, e.g. in 2013 it was a feature for the Jay Series but not available for the Sport.

So for pop-up roofs that can handle the racks, there is likely a specific place to mount them, so that you fasten to the reinforcement plates. Locations should be in owner's manual or dealer's service manual for units that have this feature.

Otherwise, you will be liking to find the roof framing, if any. Other places will be just roof skin with air behind, or at best foam insulation.

The roof is often thin enough that lacking reinforcement, you could install your own, sandwiching a section of the roof between two reinforcement plates, one inside and one outside, and installing the racks with bolts through the plates.

You prevent leaks by using sealants appropriate to what you are mounting. At the minimum, putty tape under what you mount, and you can improve with lap sealants over and around.