Advisability On Using Extensions With a Tow Bar

Question:

I am trying to install a cargo carrier to be used as a bike rack on 10,000# pound receiver. I already have a 8inch extender to reduce the 2and 1/2 receiver to 2inch receiver. into that I have a double extender top for the cargo carrier and bottom for the falcon 2 tow bar for towing a chevy cruze weight approx. 3000# Now I need more clearance for the cargo carrier to clear the car hence the HE18? is this possible to do or is it too much to be safe? This is on a class a Diesel Motorhome.

asked by: Gerald E

Expert Reply:

Although it would seem like an ideal way to carry the items you wish to carry, I spoke with my contact at Roadmaster and they told me that they strongly advise against adding additional extenders to the hitch. Adding the reducer on your receiver does not reduce the towing capacity, but the double receiver does. Normally, adding extensions to your receiver reduces the towing capacity by 50%. Adding an additional extension would certainly reduce the towing capacity by another 50%. With that many attachments I would not recommend that as a solution.

If the rear of your motorhome has a ladder attached, and it has 1 in vertical bars, I would suggest a ladder mounted bike carrier like Surco 2 Bike Carrier for Vans and RVs, part # SP501BR. The arms pivot which will give you full access to the ladder. The bikes are mounted vertically, with the seat posts attaching to the cradles. This carrier has a capacity of 75 lbs.

I also recommend a cable lock like part # e98891 to secure your bikes to the rack and ladder. I have linked you to a product review video for this cable lock.

Another alternative would be a hitch and hitch mounted bike carrier for your Chevy Cruze.

I would recommend Curt Trailer Hitch for the 2013 Chevrolet Cruze, part # C11282. This Class l hitch has a 1-1/4 x 1-1/4 in receiver opening and has a 200 lb tongue weight capacity. I have linked you to an installation video for this hitch.

If you are interested in a hitch mounted carrier, I would recommend Swagman Chinook Bike Rack for 2 Bikes # S64683. This platform rack fits both 1-1/4 x 1-1/4 in and 2 x 2 inch receivers and has a weight capacity of 90 lbs. The distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest edge of the wheel hoop is 12-1/2 inches. since there is 6-1/4 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole on the hitch to the rear of the back bumper, there should be no problem with clearance. This rack also tilts with the bikes on the rack to allow access to the rear cargo area of the vehicle.