Steve83

You can't just throw the bikes inside the TT? Near the axle(s)?

My front receivers are integrated into the bumper because their tubes fit neatly inside the frame horns, making the bumper immensely stronger than just the factory bumper tabs (no frame mods for this bumper, and it doesn't interfere with the airbag crumple zones).


(phone app link)

Having 2 mounting points (even if they're smaller than a 2" receiver) will make any rack more-stable (so it doesn't rock as you drive, distracting you), and quieter. But on mine, the grill guard also folds down for hauling (and it's removable - either without tools). I would never go on a public road with this kind of load, but it shows how strong the guard is, even when folded down:


(phone app link)

So ratchet-strapping half a dozen bikes to it would be easy.

i2oadi2unnei2

I'd rather not bring the bikes in the TT, but if I had a longer and/or bigger TT, this would have been an option. As for your overkill application, that's a bit too much for me so I am seriously considering the front receiver hitch I appreciate your recommendations.

i2oadi2unnei2

Is yours the same as Chethro's Curt C31083? I'm getting ready to pull the trigger and get one ASAP!

i2oadi2unnei2

Thanks for all the input guys, got my front hitch last week and got it installed this weekend. The fit was snug and I couldn't do it myself so I took it to the local shop. Haven't mounted the bike rack on it yet but will post a follow up pic on Oct 18 for our final camping trip. I do admit it looks funky as it does stick out past the fascia but with a front cover it does make it look beefy, but that's just me

i2oadi2unnei2

Just a q quick update on my front hitch (CURT brand). Love this setup with my Thule. Although I have not been on a scale, I'm sure the extra weight does/can compliment a little more up front for better steering. I apologize for the dark shadow, and if anyone wants a better pic I'll post it up. It'll be a while before I mount the Thule up front again (I only mount it when we're on RV trips) and if I do I'll take a better pic.

Sweetlou

i2oadi2unnei2

I spent over an hour going over the instructions and logistically figuring out how to install it with the help of the wife. Ultimately I decided that my time is more than the cost of having someone to install it:

-My driveway is of gravel, sharp rocks!
-Hole in the frame appears to be a bit small/tight and knowingly I'll drop the nut or parts in there
-Too heavy to have wife handle it while I try to align said hole that may take 15min lol
-Above all, no tools to make this easy to install

So off to a local shop that took them about an hour to install (so they say). I will say this is a better option than having a full receiver/hitch install on the TT. Once the wife and youngest kid decides they want their own bikes, then I will have one installed on the back of the TT. The thule can handle 4 bikes w/ an attachment but no way in hell I'll have 4 bike up front, my cajones isn't that big lol.

TerryD64

How hard is it to see around the bikes? That is my biggest concern going with the front hitch route.

i2oadi2unnei2

Not that hard and I'm short! Like 5'3" short lol. I can see the handle bars from where I sit and know the furthest distance by looking at the last bikes' handle bar. If I can do this I'm sure most of you can too. Just remember to take things slow because of the additional length. When I got home this last trip, I told myself I'm not gonna stop just to unload both bikes, flip the rack up and then back it in and gonna wing it. Took twice as long and I let several cars sit there and wait till I am done backing in lol. Next time I'll have popcorn at the ready

boot807

Does the bike rack interfere with any of the forward sensors on the truck?