This is not recommended by Airstream. Airstream frames are lighter than box trailer frames and the aluminum monocoque body construction carries part of the load and stiffens the structure. Hitches have been put on Airstreams for years and some ended up with "tail separation" where the frame and body separate and the rear sags which is an expensive repair. You've created a moment arm beyond the rear of the trailer that could ultimately weaken or shear the rivets which are also aluminum. The only bike rack Airstream recommends is one made by Fiamma which attaches to the both frame and the body so the weight is carried across both.
Great video. Would you be so kind as to show a picture of the L shaped steel beam and how you welded it to the right side frame where the tailgate lid retractable arm is (when you're facing the rear of the Airstream)?
Congrats on a nice addition! Thief can casually snip cable lock in 3 silent seconds, so additional type lock(s) advisable, if you haven't added already.
Came to the comments looking for this feedback... I'm installing a hitch for a bike rack on our 30' international this weekend. People that have racks on the forums claim no issues, although one Airstreamer was hauling a motorcycle out back and had a bad rollover accident due to sway. There's a big difference between a couple mountain bikes that weigh 40lbs tops and a motorbike that weighs several hundred pounds.
Question - how is this solution performing today. There is lots of mix opinions when I read the Airstream Forum. Curious - do you still using this solution? any issues after few years?
Hello Brian, Our fellow friend was able to do the Hitch Receiver Welding Project for $450. On the video, we explain on how the bike rack includes a locking mechanism. 😊
Hello Keith, We won't be using the cover while traveling but the cover does have many fastening to prevent from getting blown off if you do decide to travel with it. 😊
I came to learn more about the airstream but stayed for the laughs :) Great hack and you even hid the pin.. amazing! Have you guys seen Omaze has a raffle for an airstream like yours? If I win I'll be sure to say hi when we cross paths on the highway! Keep up the cool journey! #watchtotheend
Hi, I love this video about custom bike hitch on the airstream. Now I can do this and bring my bicycles. Airstream should pay you for this innovative ideas. Can you please do a video tutorial on hitching the Caravel on the vehicle and what Other secure way of towing it. Would a sway bar and break release be important on a 16ftr Airstream. Also if you have any tips on maneuvering an airstream forward and backward parking or pulling off. Love your videos. Im just doing more research before buying my dream trailer and hopefully by next year. I have 2 daughters. One is in her first year college this year and my oldest just graduated as an RN. I shared them your videos and they loved it specially my youngest who wants to live in an airstreams while she’s in college. Keep up the good work and Thank you and stay safe. Your Fan from San Francisco.
Muchas Gracias.
Take care out there.
Thank you George! 😊✌️💛☮️
This is not recommended by Airstream. Airstream frames are lighter than box trailer frames and the aluminum monocoque body construction carries part of the load and stiffens the structure. Hitches have been put on Airstreams for years and some ended up with "tail separation" where the frame and body separate and the rear sags which is an expensive repair. You've created a moment arm beyond the rear of the trailer that could ultimately weaken or shear the rivets which are also aluminum. The only bike rack Airstream recommends is one made by Fiamma which attaches to the both frame and the body so the weight is carried across both.
I’ve wondered about this. Dam shame to not be able to take bikes with you.
Good video! that bike rack looks awesome!!
Thank you! 🙏😁💛✌️
Great video. Would you be so kind as to show a picture of the L shaped steel beam and how you welded it to the right side frame where the tailgate lid retractable arm is (when you're facing the rear of the Airstream)?
Congrats on a nice addition! Thief can casually snip cable lock in 3 silent seconds, so additional type lock(s) advisable, if you haven't added already.
Very true! Thank you for the advice 😊😁✌️☮️
How much weight did that add?
Air stream said this would give trailer sway issues. Did you have any trailer sway issues?
Came to the comments looking for this feedback... I'm installing a hitch for a bike rack on our 30' international this weekend. People that have racks on the forums claim no issues, although one Airstreamer was hauling a motorcycle out back and had a bad rollover accident due to sway. There's a big difference between a couple mountain bikes that weigh 40lbs tops and a motorbike that weighs several hundred pounds.
This is a new product from a reputable company: torkliftcentral.com/airstream-accessory-hitch-x8000
Question - how is this solution performing today. There is lots of mix opinions when I read the Airstream Forum. Curious - do you still using this solution? any issues after few years?
You too are awesome great bike rack
It seems like your real trailer lights are obstructed.
Very good video! For a small family me and my wife with 2 little kids. Do you recommend your 16 airstream?
We would recommend at least the Caravel 20FB in size for 4 people 😊
The Journey Of Prosperity thanks for your reply! All the best
The bikes block the tag? Ticket in some states
how much was install for that? Also, how are you locking?
Hello Brian,
Our fellow friend was able to do the Hitch Receiver Welding Project for $450. On the video, we explain on how the bike rack includes a locking mechanism. 😊
Are you using the bike cover on the bikes while traveling? Doesn’t the cover get blown off?
Hello Keith, We won't be using the cover while traveling but the cover does have many fastening to prevent from getting blown off if you do decide to travel with it. 😊
Love your videos!
Also using a bike cover that blows around while traveling can scratch your bikes!
Hey how is the rack working out? I have the same rack, and just purchased an airstream... any sway issues, or anything like that?
Cool! Less hassle for you guys now with the bike rack in place. Oh! Y porque tan calladita Diana?🙋🏻♀️
Diana was mainly in the background this time lol
Nice rack. Did you happen to look at the 1-Up rack when you were choosing?
I came to learn more about the airstream but stayed for the laughs :) Great hack and you even hid the pin.. amazing! Have you guys seen Omaze has a raffle for an airstream like yours? If I win I'll be sure to say hi when we cross paths on the highway! Keep up the cool journey! #watchtotheend
Hi, I love this video about custom bike hitch on the airstream. Now I can do this and bring my bicycles. Airstream should pay you for this innovative ideas. Can you please do a video tutorial on hitching the Caravel on the vehicle and what Other secure way of towing it. Would a sway bar and break release be important on a 16ftr Airstream. Also if you have any tips on maneuvering an airstream forward and backward parking or pulling off. Love your videos. Im just doing more research before buying my dream trailer and hopefully by next year. I have 2 daughters. One is in her first year college this year and my oldest just graduated as an RN. I shared them your videos and they loved it specially my youngest who wants to live in an airstreams while she’s in college. Keep up the good work and Thank you and stay safe. Your Fan from San Francisco.
Nice rack, thanks for sharing those links, can you also share what bikes you bought? Thanks!
Dont Know What this video is about but i dont get it but of course i liked
Did u forget about your me😭