Arvika RV Bike Rack Ramp Review: Is It Worth It?
We installed a new Arvika bike rack on our travel trailer earlier this year. After using it on several trips, the rack continues to perform well—and it reminds us why we have been happy with Arvika racks for so many years.
This time, we also added the optional Arvika RV bike rack ramp. We tried it on a recent camping trip to see whether rolling the bikes onto the rack would be easier than lifting them. Here is what we learned.
Our Bike Rack Setup
We travel with two average-weight adult mountain bikes. Our rack is mounted on the front of the travel trailer, over the propane tanks. That has been a great location for us because it keeps the bikes stable and leaves room in the truck for our kayaks and other camping gear.
Our current rack has two bike trays. We used to have a three-bike setup. Tight turns made be a bit nervous. When backing into a campsite, I’d often unload the bikes and raise the rack. However, with the two-bike configuration, we have more clearance between the rack and the truck’s tailgate. That extra space makes a noticeable difference and makes backing into a campsite much easier.
The rack now sits below the part of the tailgate that extends outward, so we can turn comfortably without worrying about contact.
We also need enough clearance between the bikes and the kayaks above the truck bed. With the two-bike setup, the fit is close, but it works. As needed, the rack could be adjusted up to provide better clearance. On our last camper, with a standard rack and three trays, there was less clearance so this new setup provides better peace of mind.
When an Arvika Ramp May Help
Your setup may be different. A rack mounted higher on the trailer can make loading more difficult. Heavier bicycles, including many e-bikes, may also be uncomfortable or impractical to lift.
At our mounting height, lifting the bikes onto the trays is fairly easy, although a step stool helps when securing the upper support bars. If your rack is higher or your bikes are heavier, the ramp could be a useful addition.
Using the Arvika RV Bike Rack Ramp
I tried loading our bikes both ways: lifting them directly onto the rack and rolling them up the ramp. The ramp worked, but I ran into two small challenges. First, the pedal needed to clear the vertical part of the rack. I had to keep the tires aligned in the tray while tipping the bike slightly and continuing to roll it forward. It was manageable, but not quite as effortless as I expected.
Second, we use Arvika wheel stops on the trays. As I rolled each bike into position, I still had to lift the tire over the stop. Again, it was possible, but it added a bit of friction to the loading process.
Thoughts on the Arvika Bike Rack Ramp
We continue to love our Arvika bike rack and would happily buy another. For our two-bike setup, the optional ramp is not something we need. Lifting our mountain bikes onto the rack is faster and easier than working around the pedal clearance and wheel stops.
However, your situation may be different. If lifting bikes is challenging, your rack is mounted higher, or if you travel with heavier bikes, the ramp may provide a great option for loading bikes on your rack. The best choice depends on your trailer, rack height, bike weight, and comfort with loading.
Watch Our Arvika Bike Rack Ramp Video
If you’d like to see this information in video format, check out our Arvika RV Bike Rack Ramp YouTube video.
More Arvika Information
Be sure to check out our earlier videos and posts where we review the Arvika rack and share lessons from installing and using it.
Arvika Discount Code
Arvika racks are sold factory direct. You can check out their line of RV bike racks at Arvika.ca
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