How to RV Travel with Bikes: Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Ride

If you’re planning an RV trip and want to bring your bikes along, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. RV travel with bikes can be a great way to explore your surroundings and stay active during your trip. However, it’s important to make sure you have the right equipment and knowledge to transport your bikes safely.

Firstly, you need to decide how you want to transport your bikes. There are several options available, including bike racks, hitch-mounted carriers, and roof-mounted carriers. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. You also need to make sure that the carrier you choose is compatible with your RV and your bikes.

Choosing the Right Bikes for RV Travel

When planning an RV trip, bringing along bikes is a great way to explore the surrounding areas and get some exercise. However, not all bikes are created equal, and choosing the right ones for your RV travel is important. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when selecting bikes for your trip.

Considerations for Bike Types

When choosing bikes for your RV trip, you’ll want to consider the type of riding you plan to do. If you’re looking to explore off-road trails or mountainous terrain, you may want to consider a mountain bike. If you plan to ride on paved roads and paths, a road bike or hybrid bike may be a better fit. Electric bikes are also becoming increasingly popular for RV travel, providing an extra boost of power when needed.

Another consideration is the size of the bike. Folding bikes are a popular choice for RVers, as they take up less space and can easily be stored in the RV. However, if you plan to ride longer distances or on rough terrain, a full-size bike may be more comfortable and offer better performance.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Bike Racks

Once you’ve chosen the right bikes for your RV travel, you’ll need to select a bike rack to transport them. When choosing a bike rack, consider the following factors:

• Number of bikes: Make sure the bike rack you choose can accommodate the number of bikes you plan to bring on your trip.
• Type of bikes: Some bike racks are designed specifically for certain types of bikes, such as road bikes or fat tire bikes.
• Weight capacity: Make sure the bike rack can support the weight of your bikes.
• Security: Look for a bike rack with features such as locking mechanisms or anti-theft devices to keep your bikes secure while in transit.
• Compatibility: Make sure the bike rack is compatible with your RV’s hitch or bumper.

With these considerations in mind, you can choose the right bikes and bike rack for your RV travel and enjoy exploring the great outdoors on two wheels.

Preparing Your RV for Bike Travel

If you’re planning to bring your bikes along on your RV trip, there are a few things you should do to prepare your RV for bike travel. This section will cover two main sub-sections: installing bike racks on your RV and storing bikes inside your RV.

Installing Bike Racks on Your RV

One of the most common ways to travel with bikes on your RV is to install a bike rack on the back of your RV. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a bike rack:

• Make sure the rack is approved for RV or trailer use.
• Be aware of the weight restrictions of the rack, and don’t exceed them with your bikes.
• Consider the type of bikes you have and choose a rack that can accommodate them.

Some popular bike rack brands for RVs include Kuat, Thule, and Yakima. You can find these racks at camping supply stores or online retailers like Amazon.

Storing Bikes Inside Your RV

If you prefer to store your bikes inside your RV, there are a few options available:

• Hang bikes from hooks on the wall or ceiling of your RV.
• Use a bike stand to keep your bikes upright and secure while in transit.
• Store your bikes in a storage compartment on your RV.

When storing bikes inside your RV, make sure they are securely fastened to prevent them from moving around during transit. You can use bungee cords or straps to secure the bikes in place.

Now that you know how to prepare your RV for bike travel, you’re ready to hit the road with your bikes in tow. Whether you choose to install a bike rack or store your bikes inside your RV, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of traveling with your bikes on your next RV trip.

Planning Your RV Trip with Bikes

If you’re planning an RV trip with bikes, there are a few things to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. In this section, we will cover two important sub-sections: Choosing Bike-Friendly Campgrounds and Mapping Out Bike Routes.

Choosing Bike-Friendly Campgrounds

When selecting campgrounds for your RV trip, it’s important to consider whether they are bike-friendly. Look for campgrounds that have bike paths or trails nearby, as well as bike racks or storage areas for your bikes. Some campgrounds even offer bike rentals, so you can explore the area without bringing your own bikes.

Another thing to consider is the terrain around the campground. If you’re an experienced cyclist, you may want to look for campgrounds near challenging mountain bike trails. If you’re traveling with children or beginners, you may prefer flatter, easier terrain.

Mapping Out Bike Routes

Before you hit the road, it’s a good idea to map out bike routes for each destination on your itinerary. This will help you avoid busy roads and ensure you’re taking the safest and most scenic routes. You can use online route planners or apps to help you plan your routes.

It’s also important to consider the length and difficulty of each route. Make sure you choose routes that are appropriate for your skill level and physical abilities. If you’re traveling with a group, be sure to choose routes that everyone can enjoy.

Finally, don’t forget to pack the right gear for your bike trips. Make sure you have helmets, water bottles, and any other necessary equipment. And always remember to follow the rules of the road and practice safe cycling habits.

Safety Tips for RV Travel with Bikes

If you’re planning to travel with bikes on your RV, it’s important to take proper safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Properly Securing Bikes on Racks and Inside RV

When transporting bikes on your RV, it’s essential to properly secure them to prevent accidents or damage to the bikes. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a rack that is approved for RV or trailer use and make sure it can handle the weight of your bikes.
• Make sure the bikes are properly secured to the rack and can’t move around during transit.
• If storing bikes inside the RV, use tie-downs or bungee cords to secure them in place.
• Check the bikes and racks regularly during transit to ensure they are still properly secured.

Using Proper Safety Gear While Biking

When biking on your RV trip, it’s important to wear proper safety gear to prevent injuries. Here are some safety gear essentials:

• Always wear a properly fitting helmet.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility to drivers.
• Use lights or reflectors on your bike to increase visibility at night.
• Wear closed-toe shoes to protect your feet while biking.

By following these safety tips, you can have a fun and safe RV trip with your bikes. Happy travels!

Conclusion

Now that you know how to RV travel with bikes, you’re ready to hit the road and explore the great outdoors. Remember to consider the size and weight of your bikes, as well as the storage options available in your RV.

Investing in electric bikes or foldable bikes can be a great option for RVers who want to save space and have an easier time transporting their bikes.

Make sure to pack all the necessary gear, including helmets, locks, and repair kits, and plan your routes ahead of time to ensure a safe and enjoyable biking experience.

Don’t forget to check the weather and road conditions before heading out, and always follow traffic rules and regulations.

With these tips in mind, you can have a fun and memorable RV trip with your bikes. Happy travels!