Question:
I understand how this bike rake mounts around the sparetire on my travel trailer but what concerns me is the bicycle pedals hitting the sparetire?
asked by: Tom
Expert Reply:
I use the Swagman RV Bumper Bike Rack, # S80501, to carry my bikes when I tow as well and I understand your concern about the bike pedals hitting the spare tire. There are a few ways to avoid that from happening. With my bike, I rotate the pedals so they are as far away from any part of the spare tire as possible. On my setup, this puts the inner pedal toward the middle of the wheel because it is not low enough to clear the bottom of the tire.
Then, I use a strap like part # SR54FR to secure the pedal to the bike frame so it does not spin. I also use a separate strap, similar to part # E98876, to secure the bike to the upright arms of the bike rack. This prevents the bike rack from swinging back and forth when you brake or accelerate. I also strap the second bike to the first bike to keep it from swinging as well.
etrailer Cam Buckle Cinch Strap w/ Buckle Protector - 1" x 13' - 293 lbs - Qty 1
Softride Soft Hook-and-Loop Tie Downs for Bike Racks - Qty 4
Swagman Around the Spare Deluxe 2 Bike Rack for RV Bumpers