Bike Carrier on Rear Radiator Coach

[Darryl]

I want to start taking my bike with me, using a hitch carrier. Since my coach is rear radiator, I was wondering about the temperatures I might expect on the bike and if they might be too hot. I'm thinking they are probably fine, but would love to hear from a voice of experience. Anyone else using a rear bike rack on a rear radiator? Any problems?

[indiana journey]

Darryl,
We carry two bikes with a cover on the rear of our Journey on a hitch carrier. The coach has never had any overheating problems in 58,000 miles. The bikes have been there for most of the way, including several trips over the Rocky Mountains.
Indiana Journey

[Lukeaa]

I put a hitch on the rear of my toad and put the bike rack there. That way you always have your bike with you, when you are out in your toad.

Only works if you pull a toad.

Luke

[Darryl]

Thanks Indiana. I believe the coach should be fine, as your experience has pointed out. My concern is more about the bikes getting really hot. Decals and possibly the seat would likely be the most heat sensitive parts on a regular bike. I have an e-bike that also has an electronic controller that is of some concern. The battery pack would be removed before placing it on the rack.

Quote:

Originally Posted by indiana journey Darryl, We carry two bikes with a cover on the rear of our Journey on a hitch carrier. The coach has never had any overheating problems in 58,000 miles. The bikes have been there for most of the way, including several trips over the Rocky Mountains. Indiana Journey

[nodine]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lukeaa I put a hitch on the rear of my toad and put the bike rack there. That way you always have your bike with you, when you are out in your toad. Only works if you pull a toad. Luke

Same here, bike rack on rear of Honda CRV. It folds and stores in the back of the CRV when we take the bikes off.

Bob

[TurtleBack]

Darry I have a side radiator but thought I'd offer a few comments. We have a four bike carrier on the back of our rig. I purched a Blue Ox extended version which raises up the bikes about 8-10 inches higher than the normal carrier. This is handy when dealing with the tow bar. I also had a bar welded across the upright support tube so that it could be easily lifted (or at least easier) and then laid back at an angle - which is standard for the carrier. This allows access to the engine for oil checks etc. without removing the bikes. otherwise the engine door could not be opened.

[indiana journey]

Darryl,
Our bikes get hotter when the sun shines on them than when they are on the bike rack behind the motorhome going down the road. I wouldn't worry about the electronics or decals on your bike. We have a cover on the bikes now to keep the road grime off them, but they haven't always been covered.
Indiana Journey