bicycle storage

[OhioMark]

I've read in more than one forum people welding or bolting the bike carrier to the frame. They basically said the heck with the frame warranty and have not had issues.

Same stories on the bumper mounts, but ended differently. Bumper failed and they ended up with multiple bikes strewn across an interstate.

[OhioMark]

Originally Posted by st.rodder2

Another option is installing a roof rack on the truck with bike racks attached to the load bars. I do this with my truck while towing my 5th wheel. Attachment 308

Wow, quite a reach to get those down! You crawl up in the bed I assume..

BTW, sharp truck!

[Tim D]

Originally Posted by OhioMark

I've read in more than one forum people welding or bolting the bike carrier to the frame. They basically said the heck with the frame warranty and have not had issues.

Same stories on the bumper mounts, but ended differently. Bumper failed and they ended up with multiple bikes strewn across an interstate.

I could deal with bikes and bumper damage, but the thought of the carnage that could happen to the innocent fool behind me gives me chills.

[st.rodder2]

Yes, I do load the bikes from inside the bed. It's pretty easy actually to load them. I also have the option if I want to bring the kayak along.

[OhioMark]

Originally Posted by st.rodder2

Yes, I do load the bikes from inside the bed. It's pretty easy actually to load them. I also have the option if I want to bring the kayak along.

Great.

You've peaked my interest here, I need a place for my kids bikes (adult size bikes). 3 mountain bikes to be exact.

Are the rails on your truck the aftermarket kind? I assume so since rails usually are not an option.

If yes, does the roof mount cause any damage/wear in the area where the mounts? Looks like they would rub over time.

[Loneoak]

OhioMark, I have also heard that shorter trailers are more difficult to back up than longer ones. Last year we sold our 30' Jayco and bought a 34' Cruiser. My husband has found the Cruiser easier to back up, I have not tried it yet. I did back the Jayco a few times. My husband said when we had the 24' travel trailer when the kids were young, he found that very easy to back up, easier than a fifth wheel. I never backed that one. I would have to say that the slower reaction time of the 5er is what most people have trouble with.

[st.rodder2]

OhioMark, Yes the rack systems is aftermarket made by THULE. I had them on my trucks for 10 years and there is no wear marks or damage to the roofs. There is a specific mounting kit made for each vehicle. Your truck is one of the most popular fits we make and sell directly to Ford as an option at the dealer. Once you get the rack system you can add type of bike or kayak carrier you want. All THULE accessories are interchangeable.

[OhioMark]

Gosh,

by the time I get the rack hardware and bike carriers for three bikes, looks like I'll be 500-600 bucks into equipment. Those Thule component run some money.

Any other brands you know of?

[st.rodder2]

OhioMark, Yes they are a little pricy but it will be the last rack you will need to buy (lifetime warranty). The rack is transferable vehicle to vehicle just by changing the fit kit. Cost also depends on the style of rack and carriers you choose. There are other racks out there for sure that are cheaper, but you get what you pay for. You may find some of the accessories on e-bay.

[Bert]

Originally Posted by Tim D

Does that attach to the bumper or the frame somehow?

When I was looking at these trailers I never got underneath to see. I have a friend with one I'm going to ask him and get back to all of you.

[Tim D]

Originally Posted by Bert

When I was looking at these trailers I never got underneath to see. I have a friend with one I'm going to ask him and get back to all of you.

Thank you.

[Loneoak]

We went camping this past weekend and our daughter joined us with her trailer. The bikes ended up on the table.

Thanks for all the suggestions.

[b727capt]

I had a receiver welded to the rear frame by a reputable welding shop and use a 4 place receiver type bike rack.

[kcandsting]

We bought folding bikes, sometimes you can find them on Craigs list very cheap or on sale at Camping World, they may fit in one of your daughters storage areas we put our in the back of the pick up and have a Theule rack for the kayaks. We have a sunset trail 25rb. It always looks to me like the 5ers have a big storage area on them.

[Loneoak]

Unfortunately her 5er does not have a lot of basement storage as the bathroom is in the rear. Just the bedroom in the front results in front storage (for hoses, wires, etc.) and storage under one of the bunks (where an optional outdoor kitchen would go). She ended up putting the bikes on the table (which was down) when we all went camping last month. She does have a folding bike so she should bring it.

[Tim D]

Originally Posted by b727capt

I had a receiver welded to the rear frame by a reputable welding shop and use a 4 place receiver type bike rack.

Any issues? Bounce and or flex?

[kcandsting]

We were up at camping world this week and looked at trailers, I still think our 25 rb are about the best laid out 25 foot trailer you can get, we have so much storage, we did not see one other trailer we liked better in our size. Plus the quality of the cabinets and with the fireplace and large sink and countertop, love our rv.