Imagine this: You’ve finally packed up your RV, the open road is calling, and you’re dreaming of exploring new trails on your trusty bicycle. But wait – how do you safely bring your bike along for the adventure? Choosing the right RV bike rack can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many types, and you worry about security, weight limits, and if it will even fit your specific RV. It’s frustrating when you just want to focus on the fun ahead.
Don’t let the wrong rack turn your dream trip into a headache. A poor choice can mean damaged bikes, wasted money, or worse, losing your equipment on the highway. That’s why we dove deep into the world of RV bike racks. In this guide, you will learn exactly what features matter most. We break down the different styles so you can easily compare them.
Keep reading to discover the best solutions for securing your bicycle adventures. We will give you the clear information you need to pick a rack that fits your RV and your lifestyle perfectly. Let’s find the perfect travel partner for your wheels!
Top Rv Bike Rack Recommendations
- EFFORTLESS RV BIKE TRANSPORTATION: Discover an easy and secure way to transport bikes on your RV with Camco's RV Bike Rack.
- COMPATIBILITY: A camping gear must-have for avid bikers, Camco's trailer ladder rack is compatible with most standard RV ladders. This camping gear may not work with some smaller framed bikes.
- HOLDS TWO BIKES: With a maximum weight capacity of 60 lb, the rack comfortably holds two bikes! Share the adventure with friends or family without sacrificing space.
- SECURE INSTALLATION: Enjoy worry-free travels with this RV camper accessory. The innovative design includes form-fit cradles to securely hold your bikes in place, giving you peace of mind. Plus, bonus straps add an extra layer of security.
- BUILT TO LAST: Invest in a long-lasting RV accessory! Made of heavy-duty steel, this bike rack for RVs is constructed to withstand your outdoor adventures.
- VERSATILE BIKE CARRIER - Easily transport up to 2 bikes on your vehicle, RV, or travel trailer. Compatible with 2" hitch receivers or 4" and 4.5" square bumpers with the included bumper adapter, perfect for family road trips or RV adventures.
- DURABLE ALLOY STEEL FRAME - Designed to withstand heavy use, this bike rack is built with a stable alloy steel frame to securely carry up to 80 lbs. of bikes. Ideal for those looking for a reliable solution for their vehicle or RV bike transport needs.
- EASY INSTALLATION - Effortlessly mount the bike rack to your car, SUV, RV, or trailer with minimal effort. This bike holder for car uses a simple hitch mount system that allows for quick, hassle-free setup, ensuring more time for your next adventure.
- SAFE & CONVENIENT BIKE RACK - Securely mount 2 bikes at once with the bike rack for hitch. The easy-to-use platform design eliminates the need for removing each bike, offering both safety and convenience for your cycling excursions.
- ABOUT STROMBERG CARLSON - A trusted name in RV accessories since 1959. Based in Traverse City, Michigan, Stromberg Carlson is committed to providing durable, high-quality products like this bike rack for cars, SUVs, and RVs.
- Conveniently carry up to two bikes from your 4" to 4.5" square bumper
- Adjustable mounting allows a fit for nearly any length bicycle
- All-steel construction, powder coated finish
- 30 lb. weight capacity per bicycle
- Will not fit fat-tire bicycles or bicycles with wheels over 29"
- 200LBS CAPACITY & V-GROOVE RAMP: The latest electric bike rack features an upgrade V-groove ramp for easy loading 2 electric bikes or bikes of up to 200lbs in total (100lbs per bike). Fits tires up to 5" wide and wheelbases up to 50". Compatible with any vehicle with a 2-inch receiver, no extra bar needed for step-thru heavy duty electric bikes or bikes.
- PATENTED ANTI-WOBBLE & ENHANCED GRIP: Our 2-inch tow-mounted electric bike rack has a patented V-shape cradle and bolt system for secure transport. Shock-absorbing hitch threads ensure stability, while upgraded semi-enclosed connection blocks on support bars provide a stronger grip on e-bikes.
- SCRATCH-RESISTANT & EASY INSTALLATION: Instead of the metal hook, our electric bike rack uses a ratchet strap system at three points per bike for stability, with soft padding and rubber covers to prevent scratches. Easy installation with the manual or E-manual.
- FOLDABLE & ANTI-RUST: Made of lightweight aluminum and steel, our foldable bike rack is easy to store and transport. A 1000-hour salt spray resistance coating prevents rust, making it weatherproof. The ramp can be easily installed and stored on the electric bike rack.
- Manufacturer Direct: Our bike rack features 2 bars per electric bike or bike for added support and stability. Enjoy a 1-year warranty and easy setup with detailed instructions and 24/7 support.
- Designed for 4 to 4.5-inch continuous welded steel bumpers
- Transports up to 2 bikes
- Maximum load of 30 pounds per bike
- Carrier Weight: 21 pounds
- DURABLE and SAFE: Young Electric bike rack is constructed with reinforced steel and aluminum which makes it durable and powerful enough to carry 2 bikes weighing 100 lbs each. Comes with 2-arm fix, patent secure wheel cradles and anti-wobble structure, that secure your E-bikes in place without swaying and knocking against vehicle.
- 200 LB TOTAL CAPACITY: Built for durability and strength, this bike rack boasts an impressive 200lbs capacity, securely accommodating heavier electric bikes or multiple conventional bicycles with ease. Trust in its robust construction for reliable, strain-free transportation.
- RV Approved: Specially designed for RV compatibility, this bike rack is RV Approved, ensuring hassle-free installation and safe, stable transport of your bicycles while on the road. Travel with confidence knowing it's tailored for motorhome adventures.
- Easy to use: Effortlessly load and secure bikes with our user-friendly bike rack. Its intuitive design allows for quick attachment and detachment. Also equipped with a ramp so that bikes can be easily rolled onto the rack. The ramp can be easily mounted and neatly stowed in the frame when not in use. Please note: If a part seems missing from the accessory pack, it may have been pre-installed on the product for your convenience. Please check before contacting support.
- 2 INCH HITCH RECEIVER: ONLY fits vehicles with 2" receivers, the rack is sturdy and does not wobble easily. Most parts come pre-assembled for easy installation. Parts including locking hitch pins, instruction manual and hardware.
- [Enhanced Durability]: Built to last, this hitch adapter fits standard 2" hitch receivers. It features robust construction and can support up to 75 lbs, with a maximum of 38 lbs per bike
- [Versatile Hitch Compatibility]: Suitable for Class I, II, III, and IV hitches. Not compatible with RVs, campers, or trailers.”
- [Secure Bike Transportation]: This bike rack platform securely holds and transports two bicycles. The adjustable hooks and tire cradles can accommodate bike frames with wheel diameters from 20" to 26", wheel widths up to 2-1/4", and wheelbases up to 63"
- [Compact Design]: Designed with a removable vertical post, it allows for compact and space-efficient storage
- [Stable Design]: The built-in locking knob ensures the main upright remains stable, significantly reducing wobble during transport for a smoother ride
- Secure Bike Transportation: Safely transport up to 4 bikes with ease. The rack's towing capacity is 150 lbs and includes a hitch pin for secure attachment. An added reflector enhances safety during travel
- Convenient Swing-Down Feature: The swing-down feature provides effortless access to the rear of your vehicle, ensuring convenience when needed. Ideal for vans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and sedans with receiver hitches
- Easy Installation: Installing the MaxxHaul Towing Products 70210 Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack is a breeze and takes just minutes. The support arms, equipped with adjustable hold-down straps, firmly secure and transport your bikes
- Broad Hitch Compatibility: This rack fits 2" x 2" hitch receivers, offering versatile compatibility with a variety of vehicles
- Durable Construction: Built from rigid all-steel construction and powder-coated for durability, this rack is designed for longevity. The adjustable bike cradle with hook and loop straps ensures secure transportation
Choosing the Best RV Bike Rack: Your Complete Buying Guide
Taking your bikes on an RV trip opens up a world of adventure. But you need a safe way to carry them! An RV bike rack keeps your gear secure while you travel. This guide helps you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
A good bike rack must have several important features. These ensure your bikes stay safe and the rack works well with your RV.
1. Weight Capacity
First, check how much weight the rack holds. Know the weight of your heaviest bike. Make sure the rack’s capacity is higher than your combined bike weight. This prevents the rack from bending or breaking.
2. Bike Style Compatibility
Do you have road bikes, mountain bikes, or e-bikes? Some racks hold bikes by the wheel. Others clamp onto the frame. Check the product description carefully. Ensure it fits the shape and size of your specific bicycles.
3. Access and Loading
How easy is it to put bikes on and take them off? Racks that sit lower on the back of the RV are simpler to load. Some racks tilt away from the RV. This feature lets you open your RV storage doors without removing the bikes first. This is a huge time-saver!
4. Security Features
You need locks! Look for racks that include built-in locking mechanisms. These secure the bikes to the rack and often secure the rack to the RV hitch or ladder. Thieves are less likely to bother a locked setup.
Important Materials for Durability
The material of the rack affects how long it lasts and how much it weighs. Strong materials mean less worry on bumpy roads.
- Steel: Steel racks are very strong and usually cheaper. However, steel rusts easily if the paint chips. Heavy steel can also lower your RV’s available weight capacity.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is much lighter than steel. It resists rust very well. Aluminum racks often cost more, but they are easier to handle and last longer outdoors.
- Plastics/Composites: These are used for trays, clamps, and padding. Good quality, UV-resistant plastics prevent cracking when sitting in the sun for long periods.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all racks are made equal. A few small design details make a big difference in the rack’s overall quality and your experience.
Quality Boosters:
- Adjustable Straps and Cradles: High-quality racks have thick, rubberized straps. These grip the bike wheels tightly without scratching the paint.
- Hitch Tighteners: If you use a receiver hitch mount, a good rack includes a mechanism to eliminate wobble. This feature stops annoying rattling sounds while driving.
- Powder Coating: A thick, baked-on powder coat protects steel racks from weather damage much better than simple paint.
Quality Reducers (Watch Out For):
- Flimsy Plastic Parts: If clamps or levers feel weak, they will likely break under stress or extreme cold.
- Poor Weld Points: Inspect where metal pieces join. Weak or uneven welds are failure points waiting to happen.
- Universal Fit Claims: Be cautious of racks that claim to fit every single type of RV or every bike frame perfectly. Customization usually means better security.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about *how* you will use the rack most often. This guides your mounting choice.
Mounting Types:
- Hitch Mounts: These slide into your RV’s standard trailer hitch receiver. They are very stable and usually offer the best weight capacity. They are excellent for heavy bikes or frequent use.
- Ladder Mounts: These attach directly to the RV’s rear ladder. They are convenient for smaller, lighter bikes. Ensure your ladder is sturdy; a weak ladder can be damaged by the added weight.
- Bumper Mounts: These bolt onto the RV’s rear bumper. These are generally the least recommended unless the rack is very light, as they put stress directly on the bumper structure.
For families going on long tours, a sturdy hitch rack that tilts open is the best experience. If you only take one lightweight bike for short weekend trips, a simple ladder mount might save you money.
RV Bike Rack Buying Guide FAQ
Q: How do I know which mounting type is best for my RV?
A: Hitch mounts are usually the strongest option, especially if your RV has a built-in receiver hitch. Check if your RV has a sturdy rear ladder if you consider a ladder mount. Always prioritize stability over convenience.
Q: Do RV bike racks affect my RV’s warranty?
A: Drilling or permanently modifying the RV body (like for some ladder mounts) might void parts of the body warranty. Hitch mounts generally do not affect the warranty because they use existing receiver points.
Q: Can I use a car bike rack on my RV?
A: You should not. RVs are much heavier than cars. The constant bouncing and wind resistance on the road will quickly damage a standard car rack or damage your RV’s rear structure.
Q: What is “sway” and how does the rack affect it?
A: Sway is when the back end of the RV wiggles side-to-side while driving. Heavy racks or racks that stick out too far create extra leverage, which increases sway. Choose a rack that sits close to the RV body.
Q: How often should I check the rack during a trip?
A: Always check the rack and all straps within the first 10 miles of starting your drive. After that, quickly check the security every time you stop for a break or fuel.
Q: Are electric bikes (e-bikes) too heavy for most RV racks?
A: Yes, many standard racks cannot handle the weight of e-bikes. You must buy a heavy-duty rack specifically rated for e-bikes. These often have lower loading trays and much higher weight limits.
Q: What is the difference between a tray-style and a platform-style rack?
A: They are very similar! Platform racks hold the bike wheels in trays and secure the frame or wheels with arms. This is the most common and stable style for RVs today.
Q: Does the rack block my taillights?
A: Hitch-mounted racks can sometimes block lower taillights. Check local laws! Some states require that you install an auxiliary set of brake and turn lights on the rack itself if it covers the originals.
Q: What is the easiest way to prevent rust?
A: If you have a steel rack, apply a coat of clear protective spray or automotive wax over the painted surfaces once a year. Store the rack inside during the off-season if possible.
Q: How much space should the rack add to the back of my RV?
A: Shorter racks are better for tight campgrounds and city driving. Long racks can make backing up tricky and increase the chance of hitting objects when turning corners.