Traveling with your bikes on your RV, motorhome, or fifth wheel allows you to explore destinations in a more active and engaging way. However, safely and securely transporting your bikes requires the right equipment. A robust Bike Holder For Rv is essential, especially if you’re carrying heavier electric bikes. This guide focuses on the RV Rider bike rack, a top-tier solution designed for the unique demands of RV and motorhome travel.
When it comes to hauling bikes behind your recreational vehicle, safety and stability are paramount. Unlike standard car bike racks, bike holders for RVs must withstand more stress due to the extended length and different driving dynamics of RVs, fifth wheels, and towed vehicles. The RV Rider bike rack is engineered to meet these challenges head-on.
One of the standout features of the RV Rider is its exceptional weight capacity. Specifically designed to carry two e-bikes, it can handle up to 80 lbs per bike. This heavy-duty capability is crucial as e-bikes are significantly heavier than traditional bicycles. Its universal heavy-duty wheel holders are built to accommodate this load, fitting tires up to 5″ wide and featuring ratchet wheel straps for a secure fit.
Securing your bikes to the rack is just as important as the rack’s attachment to your vehicle. The RV Rider uses locking frame grabbers to firmly hold bikes in place. These grabbers are versatile, attaching to the bike’s frame or seat tube with a diameter range of 1″- 2″. This thoughtful design means bike adapters are unnecessary and should not be used, simplifying the loading process and ensuring a direct, secure hold. For added security, a locking cable and keyed-alike hitch pin are included, securing both the bikes to the rack and the rack to your vehicle, providing peace of mind during your travels.
Practicality is also a key consideration for RV accessories. The RV Rider is designed to fold up when not in use, minimizing its footprint and making storage easier. Furthermore, it features a tilt-down function to allow access to rear cargo areas of your RV or vehicle without the need to remove the bikes or the entire rack.
The construction of the RV Rider bike rack is built for durability and heavy use. It features a double-walled receiver tube to manage the additional weight of electric bikes, ensuring long-term reliability. An included hitch tightener is designed to reduce motion within the hitch, contributing to a more stable and quieter ride. It’s important to note that a minimum class 3 trailer hitch with a flange is required for safe and effective use of this bike rack.
While the RV Rider is incredibly versatile, it’s important to understand its compatibility limitations. This bike rack is not compatible with bumper pull, travel trailers, or bumper-mounted hitch receivers. It is specifically designed for the robust hitch systems found on Class A, B, & C RV Motorhomes, fifth wheels, and flat-towed vehicles.
Vehicle Applications:
The RV Rider bike rack is compatible with a range of vehicle types, making it a flexible choice for different RV setups:
- Class A, B & C RV Motorhomes: Perfectly suited for the structural demands of motorhomes.
Motorhome
- Flat Towing: Securely transport your bikes while flat towing a vehicle behind your RV.
Flat Towing
- 5th Wheel: Designed to work effectively with the hitch configuration of fifth wheel trailers.
5th Wheel
Key Specifications at a Glance:
- Capacity: Carries Two Bikes (up to 80 lbs each)
- Hitch Size: Requires a 2” hitch receiver (Class 3, 2″ Hitch minimum) – 1 ¼” -2” adapters are not compatible.
- Bike Compatibility: Maximum 60” wheelbase, minimum 36″ wheelbase, and up to 5″ tire width.
- Features: Extra heavy-duty wheel holders with ratchet straps and rim protectors, internally reinforced frame, external brace, keyed-alike locking hitch pin, 8’ security cable, and locking frame grabbers. Small Wheel Adapters included for 20″ fat tire bikes.
- Important Warnings: Not compatible with 1-1/4″ – 2″ adapters, hitch extensions longer than 8″, trailers, or bike covers. Not intended for motorized bikes, mopeds, motorcycles, trikes, or electric scooters.
- Front Hitch Compatible: Unique in its ability to be used with front hitches.
- Rack Weight: 63.5 lbs.
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty
Specific Requirements for 5th Wheel Applications:
- Minimum Trailer Hitch Tongue Weight: 350 lbs
- Minimum Vehicle Length: 24′
- Minimum GVW: 5,000 lbs
- Double Axle Required
Installation Resources:
For easy setup, the RV Rider bike rack comes with comprehensive installation instructions and video resources:
- Installation Instructions for HR1700 (PDF)
- Installation Video (HR1700)
- Installation Instructions for HR1600 (PDF)
- Installation Instructions for HR1655 (PDF)
- Replacement Parts for Sport Rider for E-Bikes
- Replacement Parts for RV Rider Rack 2021 Model HR1700: HR1700
Choosing the right bike holder for your RV is a crucial decision for any RV enthusiast looking to bring their bikes along for the adventure. The RV Rider bike rack stands out as a robust, secure, and user-friendly option designed specifically for the challenges of RV travel, particularly with electric bikes. Its heavy-duty construction, versatile compatibility, and thoughtful features make it an excellent investment for enjoying cycling on your RV journeys.
