5 Best Bike-Friendly Storage Solutions for RVs That Maximize Adventure

Bringing your bikes along on your RV adventure lets you explore new destinations while staying active, but finding the right storage solution can be challenging in limited space. Traditional bike racks might not work with your RV’s unique configuration, and poorly secured bicycles can become damaged or even create safety hazards during travel.

We’ve researched and tested dozens of bike storage options to bring you the five best bike-friendly solutions designed specifically for RV living – combining security, accessibility, and space efficiency.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Finding the Perfect Bike Storage for Your RV Adventures

Finding the right bike storage solution for your RV requires balancing accessibility, security, and space efficiency. You’ll want to consider your specific RV configuration, the number and types of bikes you own, and how frequently you’ll use them. Here are the key factors to evaluate when selecting the ideal bike storage system:

1. Assess your available space – Take measurements of potential mounting areas on your RV’s exterior or interior storage compartments. The dimensions of your hitch receiver, bumper strength, and wall space will determine which storage options are viable for your specific setup.
2. Consider your bike types and quantity – Mountain bikes, road bikes, and e-bikes all have different weights and dimensions that affect storage requirements. Heavier bikes need sturdier mounts, while multiple bikes demand systems designed for proper spacing and weight distribution.
3. Evaluate ease of access – Think about how often you’ll use your bikes. If they’re part of your daily routine, choose solutions that allow quick loading and unloading without complex mechanisms or heavy lifting.
4. Prioritize travel safety – Select mounts that securely lock bikes in place during transit to prevent shifting and damage. Proper stabilization prevents bikes from banging together and protects your RV’s exterior from scratches.
5. Factor in weather protection – If you frequently travel through diverse weather conditions, consider how exposed your bikes will be to rain, dust, and road debris with each storage option.

1. Rear-Mounted RV Bike Racks: The Classic Storage Solution

Rear-mounted bike racks remain the most popular choice for RV owners seeking convenient bicycle transport without sacrificing interior living space. These systems attach to the back of your RV, keeping bikes secure while maintaining accessibility.

Weight Capacity and Stability Features to Consider

When shopping for rear-mounted racks, prioritize weight capacity first—ensure it can handle your bikes’ combined weight. The Saris hitch-mounted rack accommodates up to 4 bikes depending on weight. Look for stability features like vertical braces and anti-sway technology to prevent movement during travel. Opt for racks with wheel-holding hooks rather than frame grips, especially crucial for carbon-frame bikes.

Top Rear Rack Brands for Different RV Types

For towable RVs, the ARVIKA Bike Rack provides exceptional versatility, mounting on the front and carrying 3-4 bikes without compromising rear access. Motorhome owners should consider the Swagman RV-Approved Rack, specifically designed to handle road vibrations while protecting carbon frames. Smaller RVs like the Winnebago Sprinter EKKO pair perfectly with Saris hitch-mounted racks. For universal quality across all RV types, industry leaders Kuat, Thule, and Yakima offer premium options with proven reliability.

2. Bumper-Mounted Carriers: Simplicity Meets Functionality

Bumper-mounted bike racks offer a straightforward solution for RV owners looking to maximize space while keeping bikes accessible during your adventures.

Installation Requirements for Bumper Mounting

Bumper-mounted carriers require a sturdy RV bumper capable of supporting both the rack and bikes’ combined weight. Before installation, verify your bumper’s weight rating to ensure safety. Installation typically involves either clamping or bolting the rack securely to the bumper. Make sure to follow manufacturer guidelines for proper mounting to prevent damage to your RV or loss of bikes during transit.

Best Bumper Racks for Various Bike Sizes

Swagman RV-Approved Bike Rack stands out for its versatility, accommodating various bike sizes including carbon-frame models by holding the wheels rather than the frame. For families, the Arvika Bike Rack offers exceptional value, carrying two to four bikes while mounting over propane tanks on travel trailers. Both options provide secure transport while maintaining accessibility, though the Arvika may slightly impact your RV’s turning radius when fully loaded.

3. Ladder-Mounted Bike Racks: Utilizing Vertical Space

Ladder-mounted bike racks offer a smart solution for RV owners looking to maximize their limited space while keeping bikes secure during travel. These vertical storage systems take advantage of often unused exterior areas on your RV.

How Ladder Mounts Preserve Valuable RV Real Estate

Ladder-mounted racks attach directly to your RV’s existing ladder, transforming this underutilized vertical space into functional storage. By keeping bikes on the exterior of your vehicle, you’ll maintain precious interior living space for other gear and activities. These systems typically position bikes away from your RV’s walls, minimizing the risk of scratches or damage during transit.

Leading Ladder Rack Systems Worth Investing In

Swagman RV-Approved Bike Rack features vertical bracing and wheel-holding hooks that protect carbon-frame bikes while providing robust stability during travel. For those needing to transport multiple bicycles, the ARVIKA Bike Rack mounts to the front of your RV and accommodates up to 4 bikes without compromising rear access. When shopping, prioritize racks with simple installation, adjustable components for different bike sizes, and secure locking mechanisms.

4. Interior Bike Storage Solutions: Weather-Protected Options

Interior bike storage offers the ultimate protection from weather elements while keeping your valuable bikes secure during travel. These solutions utilize your RV’s existing space in creative ways to accommodate your cycling equipment without exposure to rain, sun damage, or potential theft.

Gear Garages and Dedicated Storage

Specialized RV models like the Winnebago EKKO and Sprekko feature built-in gear garages that excel at bike storage. These dedicated spaces can comfortably fit two bikes, and with some wheel removal, you can often squeeze in a third bike. The garage design keeps your bikes completely protected from the elements while maintaining easy access when you’re ready to ride.

For smaller RVs without dedicated garages, creative interior modifications can work wonders. The Winnebago Hike 100 travel trailer, for example, allows you to remove the sofas to accommodate up to six bikes inside. Alternatively, you can keep the sofas and still transport a couple of bikes by raising the bed to the ceiling, creating valuable storage space below.

Collapsible Storage Designs for Indoor Convenience

Floor-standing or wall-mounted racks that disassemble or fold when not in use provide flexible interior storage options. These temporary setups let you configure your space based on your changing needs – set them up when transporting bikes and store them away when you need living space.

Many newer RV models feature adjustable furniture specifically designed for gear storage. Beds that raise to the ceiling, removable sofas, and modular furniture systems give you the flexibility to create bike storage space without permanently sacrificing comfort or livability.

Securing Bikes Inside Without Damaging Your RV Interior

Protect both your bikes and RV interior with soft storage solutions like bike bags and padded covers. These prevent scratches and damage when storing bikes in tight interior spaces, while also keeping chain grease and dirt from contacting your RV’s surfaces.

While originally designed for home use, adaptable wall and ceiling mounts can be installed in RVs with adequate structural support. Choose mounts with protective padding and secure anchoring to prevent movement during transit. For less permanent solutions, tension-based mounts that don’t require drilling can provide secure storage without modifying your RV’s interior.

5. Roof-Mounted Bike Racks: Maximizing Your RV’s Carrying Capacity

Roof-mounted bike racks might seem like an obvious solution for maximizing your RV’s carrying capacity, but they come with significant limitations. While these systems work well for standard vehicles, RVs present unique challenges that make other options more practical for most travelers.

Weight Considerations for Roof Mounting

Roof mounting bikes on RVs isn’t typically recommended due to structural concerns. Most RV roofs aren’t engineered to support the additional weight of multiple bikes, especially when in motion. This limitation can compromise your RV’s structural integrity and potentially damage the roof membrane. Instead, hitch-mounted or front-mounted racks provide more secure alternatives specifically designed for the weight distribution needs of recreational vehicles.

Accessibility Solutions for Roof-Stored Bikes

Given the impracticality of roof-mounted systems for most RVs, accessibility becomes a moot point. The height of RVs makes retrieving bikes from the roof difficult and potentially dangerous. For better accessibility, consider hitch-mounted options like the Saris rack used on the Winnebago Sprinter EKKO, which offers convenient bike access without sacrificing living space. Front-mounted alternatives like the ARVIKA rack for towable RVs can accommodate up to 4 bikes with much easier access.

Choosing the Right Bike Storage Solution for Your RV Lifestyle

Finding the perfect bike storage solution enhances your RV adventures by making cycling accessible while preserving valuable living space. Whether you opt for a rear-mounted rack for convenience a bumper attachment for simplicity or an interior solution for maximum protection your choice should align with your specific RV configuration and travel habits.

Remember to prioritize security accessibility and weather protection when making your selection. The right storage system lets you bring your bikes along without compromising comfort or safety on the road.

By investing in a quality bike storage solution you’ll enjoy the freedom to explore new destinations on two wheels then return to the comfort of your well-organized mobile home. Happy trails and happy cycling on your next RV adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of bringing bikes on RV trips?

Bikes enhance RV adventures by allowing you to explore new destinations up close, stay active while traveling, and access areas where your RV can’t go. They provide an eco-friendly transportation option for short trips around campgrounds and nearby attractions, helping you save fuel while enjoying the outdoors and maintaining fitness during your journey.

Which type of bike rack is best for most RVs?

Rear-mounted hitch racks are generally the best option for most RVs as they’re easy to install, keep bikes accessible, and don’t take up interior living space. They typically offer the best balance of security, accessibility, and convenience. Popular brands include Swagman, ARVIKA, Kuat, Thule, and Yakima, with most supporting 2-4 bikes depending on the model.

Can I store bikes inside my RV?

Yes, storing bikes inside your RV provides maximum security and weather protection. Some RV models come with built-in “gear garages” specifically designed for this purpose. For standard RVs, you can modify the interior by removing furniture, raising beds, or using collapsible storage designs. Just ensure bikes are properly secured during transit to prevent damage to your RV’s interior.

Are bumper-mounted bike racks safe for all RVs?

No, bumper-mounted bike racks are not safe for all RVs. They should only be used on RVs with welded structural steel bumpers rated for the combined weight of the rack and bikes. Most modern RVs have bumpers that aren’t designed to support this extra weight. Always check your RV’s specifications before installing a bumper-mounted rack to avoid potential damage or accidents.

What should I consider when choosing an RV bike rack?

Consider your RV’s available mounting space, the number and types of bikes you need to transport, ease of access for frequent use, security features to prevent theft, stability during transit, and weather protection. Also factor in your budget, the rack’s weight capacity, and installation complexity. Choose a rack specifically designed for RV use rather than standard automotive racks for best results.

Are roof-mounted bike racks recommended for RVs?

Roof-mounted bike racks are generally not recommended for RVs. While they free up space elsewhere, they present significant challenges including potential damage to the RV’s roof structure, difficult accessibility requiring a ladder for loading/unloading, and increased wind resistance affecting fuel economy. Rear-mounted or side-mounted options are typically safer and more practical for most RV owners.

How do I protect my bikes from theft when traveling with my RV?

Use a high-quality lock to secure bikes to your rack or RV frame when parked. Consider removing front wheels or seats to make bikes less appealing to thieves. For maximum security, store bikes inside your RV when not in use or overnight. Some racks come with integrated locking systems, which provide an additional layer of security during stops and at campgrounds.

Can I access my RV with bikes mounted on a rear rack?

Most quality rear-mounted bike racks feature a tilting or swinging mechanism that allows access to your RV’s rear door or storage compartments without removing the bikes. Look for racks specifically advertising this feature, such as the Swagman Traveler XC2 or Thule T2 Pro XT, which can tilt down or swing away while fully loaded with bikes.