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Front mounted bike carrier

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Old 02-12-2010, 07:51 AM
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Front mounted bike carrier

I am considering putting a front receiver on my 06 ram CTD to carry a Honda xr100 that weighs 175 lbs. The bike rack weighs an additional 60 lbs.

Anybody out there that is doing something similar? Any problems?

I am particularly interested to know if you've had any overheating issues since the bike would be blocking a good part of the grille. I will be towing a 10K fiver in summer heat and there isn't much flatland where I live or visit. My rig has always run cool while hauling my fiver in the mountains. I don't want to mess that up.
Old 02-12-2010, 08:04 AM
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PCM
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We have the same truck and I have a Reese front mounted hitch receiver. While I only carry 2 bicycles on a Swagman bike carrier, it has worked out really good.
We tow in the SE and FL Summer heat and have had no problem. I do believe that it makes about a 3-5 degree difference in the towing temps. Otherwise, no visibility or headlight issues with the bicycles. pcm
Old 02-12-2010, 11:45 AM
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Two words, Bug Splatter!! the bikes end up with an incredible mess, I won't do that again.
Old 02-12-2010, 12:14 PM
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As far as bugs go, I can see that as a problem. However, we rarely drive after dark or during "lovebug" season. With that in mind, it's rare we have more than a few bugs on the bikes. pcm
Old 02-12-2010, 11:10 PM
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Heating won't be a problem, but keeping the headlights unobstructed might be. Will you be able to line them up to shine over or through the wheels?
Old 02-13-2010, 01:33 PM
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I'm not sure about the tire alignment with the headlights. They surely will be partially blocking the lights. I need to do some more measuring to see if they will shine thru the spokes. I don't plan to drive at night with the bike on. Do you know if it is legal in California to drive with the headlights blocked if you only drive during daylight?

I think the Honda motor,tank and seat will block the grill alot more than a couple of bicycles. Anybody else that have towed with a similar set up?
Old 02-15-2010, 09:28 AM
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I use a "Bodiak" and two bike carrier and it works great. I had to modify the carrier to drop down so it would allow more sight and lights, but works great. Highly recommended.
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