Few motorhome owners can do without their bicycle for exploring the surrounding area once the vehicle is parked. While it's technically possible to store bicycles in the storage compartment or use a trailer, these options have major drawbacks: they take up interior storage space and limit manoeuvrability when manoeuvring.
The optimal solution consists of installing dedicated external equipment. Would you like to install a bike rack on your motorhome? We will explain step by step how the installation takes place and the technical constraints linked to your leisure vehicle.
The different types of bike racks for motorhomes
The choice of installation method depends primarily on the type of medium selected. Two main categories of devices can be distinguished:
- Chassis-mounted bike racks fixed directly to the vehicle's load-bearing structure, they offer the greatest robustness. This is the case for our flagship models such as the E-Bike (ideal for 2 electric bikes or 3 standard bikes) or the Compact-Line, capable of carrying up to 5 bikes. These models have the advantage of being foldable to reduce the motorhome's footprint when empty.
- Tow ball bike racks : models like the ST-Line and the P-Line (designed for 2 standard or electric bikes) attach directly to the ball of an existing tow hitch. This solution offers excellent flexibility if you already use your vehicle for towing a trailer occasionally.
Check compatibility with your vehicle
The success of the installation depends on the technical specifics of your motorhome.
The first point to study is the configuration of the rear section. Depending on the distance between the end of the original chassis and the plumb line of the bumper, the direct addition of a bracket may prove impossible. In this case, the prior integration of Chassis extensions and reinforcements adapted is essential.
This also needs to be taken into account payload and the Maximum Authorised Mass your motorhome. Our models of Bike rack for motorhome display a payload ranging from 60 to 130 kg. You must calculate the combined weight of the rack and bicycles (electric models are significantly heavier) to ensure it does not exceed the remaining load capacity of your vehicle.
Another point to be aware of, The weight of the entire cargo carrier and the load must be deducted from the hold's load capacity.. It is indeed essential not to overload the rear overhang of the vehicle to avoid excessive stress on the chassis or chassis extensions. For example, if your bike rack is loaded with 2 e-bikes and the total weight is 90kg, you will then need to deduct these 90kg from the payload in the boot. Furthermore, the installation of auxiliary air suspensions, such as MCK Plug & Drive may prove necessary depending on your vehicle.
Don't hesitate to contact Mecatek's experts for any advice or feasibility study regarding your motorhome's load-bearing capacities. contact us
Also, pay attention to the overhang length: too much extension risks scraping the road when going over speed bumps or driveways.
The steps for installing a bike rack on a motorhome
Installing a bike rack on a motorhome chassis involves applying a rigorous technical protocol to ensure the safety of the whole on the road:
- The chassis preparation The vehicle is positioned on a lift to inspect the original mounting points. If necessary, technicians will fit approved chassis extensions.
- The fixing of anchor fittings the mounting feet specific to your motorhome model are bolted to the chassis using high-strength bolts, tightened to the manufacturer's recommended torque.
- The assembly of the load-bearing block The main structure of the bike rack (support arms and rails) is inserted and locked into the anchor fittings.
- The electrical connection To remain compliant with the Highway Code, the lighting system and license plate holder of the bike rack are connected to the motorhome's electrical harness via a standardised plug.
Should you hire a professional?
Fitting a motorhome bike rack is tricky, as it directly affects the structural integrity of the chassis and road safety. Entrusting this task to experts removes all technical obstacles and guarantees a successful installation.
Mecatek's teams will support you from the compatibility study to the final installation in the workshop., including for heavy chassis modifications if your vehicle requires them. All our products are approved and strictly comply with current European standards.
To travel with a light heart and guarantee a flawless installation, Request your free quote with our technical services.
