Thule EasyFold XT Alternative Recommendation to Carry E-Bikes At Back of Travel Trailer

Question:

We bought a Thule Easyfold XT for 2 Aventon Pace 500 step-through e-bikes in June 2022. We love it and bought it for our truck Now we have a 19ft travel trailer, and want to know why this bike rack is not recommended for travel trailers? We have a rear hitch on the travel trailer for maximum weight of 180 lbs. The bikes and rack are under that weight. Could you explain why we should not use this rack on our travel trailer? Is there a bike rack you would recommend? We have an Intech Horizon River travel trailer. Thank you

asked by: Lethia C

Expert Reply:

Thule has gone back and forth about the Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack # TH903202 being suitable for use at the back of a travel trailer, but ultimately they've chosen not to give it the okay because they've had reports of the rack becoming damaged due to the exaggerated movement at the back of a trailer. You can technically still use the EasyFold XT on your trailer, but if it becomes damaged then Thule won't consider it a warranty claim.

Because of this, I recommend using a rack that's more robust and can easily handle all of that movement and weight while at the back of a trailer. There are 2 options I recommend checking out and it all depends on what you're looking to get out of this second bike rack:

- Swagman E-Spec # S94FR
- Swagman Escapee # S39SR

The E-Spec is what I recommend if you're only looking to use the rack when you're camping, and you just want to make sure it is suitable for both the travel trailer and the weight of your bikes. This is a mid-tier bike rack that gets the job done but doesn't have anything on it that's worth writing home about.

The Escapee is what I recommend if you'll be using the bike rack very often or even if you plan on replacing your EasyFold XT. This is more of a premium rack that uses wheel clamps (which will work since I'm seeing that your bikes don't have fenders) and is easier to use than the Thule you have. On top of all of this the rack is fat tire ready as-is and you can get the Loading Ramp # S59SR to easily load your heavy bikes - similar to the EasyFold XT but it doesn't store on the rack and it comes with 2 pieces to bridge the gap between the wheel cradles.

I'm linking some review videos for you to check out for each rack!