bikes in the back of caravans

[gforce]

Sorry if this has been asked before, but have just changed vans. We used to put one bike on the rack on the car, which was on the centre of rear spare wheel, and then 2 in the van over the axle.

The new van has fixed rear bunks which can fold up and we thought about stowing the 3 bikes there. We discussed this with the dealer and he said it would be fine - after all, a rear kitchen would be just as/more heavy.

But we are warey of carrying the weight at the back of the van like this and would welcome advice before we contemplate doing this. Thanks.

 

[Litespeed]

Hi Gforce,

We too have rear fold up bunks on our abbey. On all our trips I carry:

2 bikes (both 14lb Race Bikes - so not that heavy!)

Waste Hog

Large Halogen Heater

Both matresses on top bunk

Fold up aluminium table

two folding chairs

a Selection of Super Soaker water guns !!!

We have never (touch wood) had stability problems loded this way.

I put the awning, poles satellite dish, 12V Beer fridge (loaded)and Bulldog Leveller over the axle.

Be aware though that your bikes might weigh more than 40lb each depending on style (Full suspension /downhill style).

We tow with a Renault Espace or Mitsubishi L200. As a note the Espace wins for stability and towing power every time!!

What van are you using and what is your match %?

 

[gforce]

Hi Litespeed

Many thanks for your reply. Van is Elddis Arundel (same layout as Avante 556) and car is Discovery 2. We are 70% towing match.

 

[Lutz]

The main thing is that you are able to maintain adequate noseweight with the bikes in the back.

 

[Jeff-Pontypridd]

We have an Abbey Aventura 330, with the rear bunks/garage. Must admit, it really worries me about placing bikes (or anything of any weight, really) in the garage space. This has to be one of the worst places to put discernible weight, and is best avoided, in my opinion. I remember a review of this layout in PC, asking why they fit restraining hooks, when you shouldn't be restraining anything big/heavy there, anyway....

I dismantle the kids' bikes and carry them in the car (Galaxy) boot, and put the adult bikes as near to the 'van axle as I can. The only real problem is getting the bikes through the 'van door - takes a bit of manoeuvering!

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello gforce,

In general it not a good idea to add weight to the rear of a caravan, a point you obviously have considered hence you question, but the ultimate criteria is if it makes your outfit have a greater tendency to become unstable.

I suggest you try it and see, take care and if its all right then fine,

Otherwise consider trying to secure the bikes in the caravan but nearer the axle to reduce the moment of inertia they create. I have done this using a polythene sheet over the bikes to prevent oil and grease contamination, then using the seat cushions to wedge them between the wardrobe and kitchen, then a couple of bungee's to suitable anchor points.