Fitting a bike rack has become essential for motorhome and van users wanting to increase their mobility during stops. However, adding external equipment changes the dimensions and technical specifications of your vehicle. To drive with complete peace of mind and avoid penalties during roadside checks, it is necessary to comply with the legal framework.
At Mecatek (formerly Sawiko France), we help travellers ensure their equipment complies with regulations. We'll review the current regulations regarding bike racks for motorhomes and vans.
The rules to know about exceeding the bike rack
In France, the Highway Code strictly regulates the dimensions of loads. When a bicycle carrier is installed on the rear of a vehicle, it results in an extension beyond the initial length stated on the registration certificate.
The main rule states that the load must not extend beyond the front overhang of the vehicle. At the rear, the maximum permitted overhang is 3 metres. The load must be signalled by a reflective device when the overhang exceeds 1 m.
Legal obligations concerning the number plate and lighting
According to Article R317-8 of the Road Traffic Code, the rear number plate must be visible at all times. If the mounting of your Bike rack for motorhome if your bicycle rack obscures, even partially, the number plate, you must install a removable number plate on the carrier.
The same applies to the lighting signals (position lights, brake lights, indicators). Bicycles must never obscure the original optics. If this is the case, the use of a lighting ramp is mandatory. This signaling ramp must be connected via a wiring harness plug (usually 7 or 13 pins).
Please note that the use of a handwritten or precariously attached number plate is forbidden: it must be approved and securely fastened to the bracket using pop rivets.Mandatory signage: signs and safety devices
Regulations vary across European countries. In France, if the load extends more than one metre beyond the rear of the vehicle, it must be marked with a reflective device, supplemented by a red light if travelling at night or in reduced visibility. A bike carrier for vans Well-signalled significantly reduces the risk of rear-end collisions.
For travel in Italy or Spain, the legislation is stricter: the use of a square (50 x 50 cm) red and white striped warning sign is mandatory for any protruding load, even if the bike rack is empty. We recommend adopting this warning sign preventively to increase your visibility to other road users.
Load, weight and safety: the rules not to be neglected
Each vehicle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) which it is strongly recommended to adhere to. The installation of a bike rack and the weight of the bikes themselves (particularly electric models, which are heavier) directly impact the remaining payload.
Here are the two main indicators to check before each departure:
- La maximum load for the bike rack Each model has a limit (often 50 to 60 kg for standard models, more for chassis models).
- La Maximum load on the rear axle A bike rack creates an overhang that unloads the front axle and overloads the rear axle.
- It is important to check carefully tyre pressure before departure
For heavy loads or specific needs, the Sawiko bike rack are recognised for their robustness and direct chassis mounting, offering superior safety to conventional suspended models.
If you have any doubts about the technical compatibility of your equipment or the installation of a wiring harness, do not hesitate to ask for our professional expertise: Request your free quote with our technicians to secure your future motorhome or campervan trips.
