When you’re a young family traveling in an RV, few things rival the joy of exploring new destinations together on two wheels. Whether you’re cruising coastal trails, hitting national park paths, or biking into nearby towns for breakfast, having your bikes along for the journey transforms every stop into a mini adventure. No more boring field trips! That’s where reliable RV bike racks becomes a game changer.
In Outrig’s comprehensive guide to RV bike racks, we’ll cover everything you need to know about finding the best RV bike rack for your family’s adventures. We’ll help you choose the right model for your needs, ensure it’s compatible with your rig, and even look at the best electric bike rack for RV travelers bringing heavier e-bikes along for the ride.
Why You Need an RV Bike Rack
Families who RV know that space is limited. Storing bikes inside your rig or tow vehicle just isn’t practical. RV bike racks solve that problem by offering secure, convenient, and safe ways to bring your bikes along. Whether mounted on the rear bumper, hitch, ladder, or roof, they free up space inside your RV while keeping your bikes ready for action.
Key Benefits:
- Save space inside your RV
- Keep bikes secure and protected
- Access bikes quickly at any stop
- Enable spontaneous family biking adventures
Types of RV Bike Racks (And Which One Is Best for You)
Before you buy, it’s important to know the main types of RV bike racks. Your choice will depend on the size of your RV, how many bikes you’re bringing, whether you have electric bikes, and your budget.
1. Hitch-Mounted RV Bike Racks
These attach to a 2-inch receiver hitch on the back of your RV or tow vehicle. They are among the most stable and secure options, especially for families.
Pros:
- Easy to install and remove
- Holds up to 4-5 bikes depending on the model
- Best for heavier bikes, including e-bikes
Cons:
- May block rear access
- Can add extra length to your rig
Top Pick: Hollywood Racks Sport Rider for Electric Bikes
Great for e-bikes and heavy-duty use.
2. Ladder-Mounted Bike Racks
Ideal for Class C RVs and trailers with rear ladders, these racks hook onto the ladder rungs.
Pros:
- Affordable and space-efficient
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Not for heavy bikes
- Limited to 2 bikes
Top Pick: Stromberg Carlson LA-102 A budget-friendly favorite for families with lighter bikes.
3. Bumper-Mounted Bike Racks
Designed for square steel bumpers (usually 4" x 4") on travel trailers.
Pros:
- Sturdy and simple
- Keeps bikes at a low lift height
Cons:
- Not compatible with all RVs
- Limited capacity
Top Pick: Swagman Around the Spare Deluxe Holds 2 bikes while accommodating your rear-mounted spare tire.
4. Roof-Mounted Bike Racks
More common for tow vehicles or camper vans. These free up the back of your rig but require lifting bikes overhead.
Pros:
- Doesn’t interfere with RV access
- Can be used on SUVs or vans
Cons:
- Difficult to use for heavy bikes
- Not practical for large families
Top Pick: Yakima HighRoad Roof Rack Ideal if you’re towing your RV and want to carry bikes on your tow vehicle.
What to Look for in the Best RV Bike Rack
Not all racks are created equal. Here’s what to consider when evaluating your options:
1. Weight Capacity
Check the maximum weight per bike and total load. For electric bikes, you’ll need a higher-capacity rack, often with a ramp for easier loading.
2. Number of Bikes
Plan ahead. Will it be just you and the kids? Or will friends or extended family join your trip? Look for a rack that holds 3-4 bikes minimum.
3. Compatibility
Make sure the rack is rated for RV use. The forces on bike racks during RV travel are higher than on a car, especially at the rear of trailers.
4. Security Features
Look for integrated locks or the ability to add your own padlocks. Family vacations shouldn’t be marred by stolen gear.
5. Ease of Loading and Unloading
Can your kids help? Will you need to lift e-bikes? Consider models with ramps, trays, or lower loading heights if only one or two people are lifting the bikes.
Best RV Bike Racks for Young Families in 2025
We’ve rounded up a few of the best models on the market for young families hitting the road in 2025:
1. Hollywood Racks RV Rider
Best Overall for E-Bikes and Families
Holds two 80-lb bikes, fat-tire compatible, anti-wobble design, and RV-approved.
2. Swagman Traveler XC2
Best Budget Option for Two Bikes
Versatile hitch mount, compact storage, and easy setup.
3. Yakima LongHaul
Best for Extended Trips
Four-bike capacity, RV-rated, tool-free installation, and integrated locking system.
4. Lippert Jack-It Double Bike Carrier
Best for Travel Trailers
Mounts over the A-frame, keeping your rear clear and bikes visible.
What About Electric Bikes? Best Electric Bike Rack for RV Use
Electric bikes are heavy. Most standard racks can’t safely support them—especially on the back of an RV. If your family includes e-bike riders, look for racks made specifically for e-bike weight and tire sizes.
Top Pick: Hollywood Racks RV Rider
- Carries up to two 80-lb e-bikes
- Includes locking frame grabbers and hitch pin
- Works on motorhomes, trailers, and fifth wheels
Other great options include:
- Thule EasyFold XT 2 (great if you're using a tow vehicle)
- Saris Door County (e-bike friendly, lift assist, very secure)
Safety Tips for Traveling with Bikes on Your RV
- Double-check your rack before each drive – Make sure all straps and bolts are secure.
- Cover your bikes to protect from road grime and weather.
- Watch your turning radius – Especially with longer rigs and rear-mounted racks.
- Use reflective tape or flags for added visibility.
- Regularly inspect your rack – Look for signs of wear or metal fatigue.
Family Biking Destinations You’ll Love
Need some inspiration once your bikes are mounted and ready? Here are a few bike-friendly RV stops that offer memorable rides for families of all ages:
Zion National Park, Utah
Ride the scenic Pa’rus Trail, a flat, paved path ideal for kids that winds through Zion Canyon. The entire park is incredibly bike-friendly, and shuttle buses have racks to carry your bikes deeper into the canyon for even more riding opportunities.
Acadia National Park, Maine
The 45 miles of historic carriage roads are a dream for family cyclists. These wide, crushed stone paths are car-free and meander past lakes, mountains, and stone bridges—perfect for young riders and parents alike.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Hop aboard a ferry with your RV and bikes, and explore the gentle roads and rolling hills of islands like Lopez and San Juan. You’ll find beautiful coastal views, wildlife sightings, and charming towns with bike-friendly cafes and shops.
Santa Cruz, California
Start your ride along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and cruise west toward Wilder Ranch State Park, where coastal trails offer dramatic ocean views. The city also boasts dedicated bike lanes and local breweries for post-ride relaxation.
Bend, Oregon
Known for its blend of mountain and town trails, Bend offers the scenic Deschutes River Trail for families. Combine biking with river play, picnic spots, and casual dining downtown. RV parks nearby make it easy to roll right into your adventure.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
The Tahoe East Shore Trail is a family favorite, offering stunning views of the lake, gentle elevation changes, and safe riding paths. Many RV parks in the area provide easy access to trails, beaches, and bike rentals. Swing by Outrig West Sacramento to say hi!
Joshua Tree National Park, California
While biking is only allowed on certain unpaved roads, they’re perfect for adventurous families with older kids. Ride through surreal rock formations and desert landscapes, and camp under some of the clearest night skies in the U.S.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The South Rim Trail and Greenway Trail provide several miles of family-friendly paths with amazing canyon views. Hermit Road is also open to bikes and closed to vehicles part of the year, making for a scenic and safe experience.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Though not all trails allow bikes, nearby Estes Park features paved bike paths with mountain views and elk sightings. It’s a great spot to basecamp and enjoy shorter family rides with big alpine vibes.
Chicago Lakefront Trail, Illinois
This 18-mile paved trail runs along Lake Michigan, offering skyline views, beach access, and cultural stops like Navy Pier and the Shedd Aquarium. With nearby RV parks and campgrounds in the Chicago area, it’s an urban adventure done right.
Final Thoughts: Make Every Stop Count
A well-chosen RV bike rack does more than haul gear. It opens the door to family bonding, spontaneous fun, and active adventure at every destination. Whether you’re pedaling through pine forests or riding to the local ice cream shop, bikes are a must for family RV life.
Choosing the best RV bike rack for your family is an investment in freedom, health, and memory-making. And if you’re traveling with e-bikes, rest assured there’s a best electric bike rack for RV use that will get you where you want to go—with style and safety.
Much like an RV bike rack, be sure to invest in high quality RV storage and repairs with Outrig.