Front mount bike rack

dickegler · August 04, 2009, 06:27:23 PM

Hi All,

I'm looking for a folding bike rack for the front of the bus. One like the public passenger buses use would be perfect.(Holds 2 bikes)
prefer stainless, but could paint if mild steel.

all leads appreciated.

Thanks Dick Egler

belfert · August 04, 2009, 06:30:28 PM

A company called Sportworks makes the racks for buses. Maybe a local transit agency has some on retired buses? (Maybe they get moved to newer buses.)

Sportworks used to make models that fit in a hitch for consumers, but they sold that part of the business to Thule.

luvrbus · August 04, 2009, 06:48:04 PM

Weld you a receiver on the front and use any good bike rack and will it be easy to install off and on that is the way I have mine on the Eagle

good luck

gumpy · August 04, 2009, 07:25:12 PM

I saw one at ABC Bus in Fairibault, MN a few months ago. You might give them a call and talk to their used parts guy. I think his name was George.
I'd go with the 2 inch receiver hitch and a good bike rack, though. Easy to install and remove.

I've been thinking maybe I will build a new front bumper with a hydraulic or pneumatic platform on the front of my MC9 to carry my new-to-me Honda 650. Just a thought
at the moment, but I wouldn't mind being able to take the bike along, as well as the toad.

loosenut · August 05, 2009, 07:00:29 AM

Quote from: luvrbus on August 04, 2009, 06:48:04 PM
Weld you a receiver on the front and use any good bike rack and will it be easy to install off and on that is the way I have mine on the Eagle

good luck

Do you notice a difference in driving between bicycle on and off at highway speeds? I've been wondering if it would drag on fuel costs and speed? Do you think there would be a difference in handling with a motorcycle hanging off the front?

Thanks,

Mike

Len Silva · August 05, 2009, 07:44:43 AM

I agree, a 2" receiver in the front will give you many more options and quality levels in a bike rack. If you need something to worry about and you have a 45'er, then the rack might make you over length. I tend not to worry but some people enjoy it

buswarrior · August 05, 2009, 08:18:53 PM

Bicycles mean available exercise, which will negate any concern for fuel economy.

A 8 foot by 11 foot bus nose is not going to cut through the wind any worse with a bike rack out front me thinks....

For perspective on fuel economy, always thinking in terms of improving it...How about: Just what do I need to do to get worse mileage than 6/7 mpg?

Slap your bike rack on wherever you think it will look good, at a price point you are willing to pay!

happy coaching!
buswarrior