Fitting A Fiamma Bike Rack: Camper Van Edition

Fitting a Fiamma bike rack to a camper van can be a daunting process, especially when it involves drilling holes in your vehicle. However, those confident in their DIY skills can install a Fiamma bike rack themselves by following some simple guidelines. Before purchasing and fitting a Fiamma bike rack, it is advisable to consult your local dealer or the manufacturer to determine if the rear wall of your camper van has any strengthened points suitable for bike rack installation. Additionally, it is important to consider the available payload for the added weight of the bike rack and bikes, as well as the added length to your vehicle. The Fiamma Carry-Bike Lift 77, for example, weighs around 18kg and has a maximum weight capacity of 60kg for a 4-bike rack. The fitting process typically involves drilling holes, bolting brackets, and ensuring watertightness with sealants.

Choosing the right Fiamma bike rack for your camper van

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right Fiamma bike rack for your camper van. Firstly, it is important to determine the type of bikes you will be carrying, such as e-bikes, mountain bikes, or road bikes, as this will impact the weight and size of the rack required. The weight of your bikes is a crucial factor, as some bike racks have weight limits and you need to ensure your camper van can handle the additional weight. Fiamma bike racks typically weigh between 5kg and 18kg, with a maximum weight capacity of 60kg for a 4-bike rack.

Another consideration is the number of bikes you need to mount. Most bike racks hold 2 bikes as standard, but some can accommodate up to 4 bikes with optional extensions. Think about the size and weight of your bikes, as well as the available storage space on your motorhome. If you are considering a rear door-mounted rack, keep in mind that these typically have a maximum capacity of 2 bikes to avoid overloading the door hinges.

The location and type of bike rack you choose will depend on the layout of your camper van. If you have a rear window, you may need to opt for a shorter rack like the Fiamma Carry-Bike Pro C, or choose a specialised model like the Fiamma Lift 77 that can be wound down to waist level. Consider the added length that the bike rack will give your vehicle, even when folded up, and whether this will be an issue for parking.

It is also important to ensure that the mounting bolts and spreader plates required for installation do not interfere with the interior of your van. You may need to consult your local dealer or manufacturer to determine if there are any strengthened points on the rear wall of your camper van that are suitable for bike rack installation. Additionally, consider whether you have pre-installed mounting bars, as this may impact the type of bike rack you choose and whether you can install it yourself.

Finally, consider the level of security provided by the bike rack. Look for features such as locking mechanisms to keep your bikes safe when they are mounted on the rack.

Drilling holes and fitting the first bracket

Planning and Preparation:

Before you begin drilling, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the rear wall layout of your camper van. Identify a suitable location for the first bracket, ensuring it won't interfere with any internal components or structures. Consider the position of mounting bolts, spreader plates, and cover-up plastic covers to avoid any obstructions.

Gathering Tools and Materials:

Make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials ready. You will need an electric drill, suitable drill bits for the job, and a sealant like sikaflex to ensure watertightness. It is also important to wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and gloves, when undertaking this task.

Drilling the Holes:

Using the electric drill, carefully drill the holes for the first bracket. Take your time and work with precision to ensure the holes are straight and accurately positioned. The number and size of holes will depend on the specific Fiamma bike rack model you are installing, so refer to the product instructions for exact specifications.

Fitting the First Bracket:

With the holes drilled, it's now time to fit the first bracket. Insert the mounting bolts through the holes and secure them with Nyloc nuts, following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the bracket is firmly in place but be careful not to over-tighten the nuts, especially if your camper van has a sandwich-type construction for the rear wall.

Applying Sealant:

As mentioned, it's important to use a sealant like sikaflex to ensure the installation is watertight. Apply the sealant around the base of the first bracket, following the manufacturer's instructions for proper application. This will help prevent water ingress and keep your camper van protected from the elements.

Final Checks:

Once the first bracket is in place, take a moment to step back and inspect your work. Ensure the bracket is securely attached, and all bolts and nuts are tightened appropriately. Double-check that the bracket is positioned correctly and does not interfere with any other components.

Remember, this first bracket will serve as the reference point for the remaining brackets, so it's important to get it right. Take your time and don't rush through this process. With the first bracket securely in place, you can now move on to installing the remaining brackets, following similar steps for each one.

Ensuring the mounting bolts don't foul anything inside the van

When fitting a Fiamma bike rack to your camper van, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure a secure and functional installation. One crucial aspect is ensuring that the mounting bolts, which secure the rack to the vehicle, do not foul anything inside the van. Here are some detailed instructions to help you achieve this:

Firstly, it is essential to choose an appropriate location for the bike rack on the rear of your camper van. This location should provide a sturdy base for the rack while also ensuring that the mounting bolts will not interfere with any interior components. Take measurements and visualise the placement of the rack, including the position of the mounting bolts, before proceeding with any drilling or installation.

Once you have identified a suitable location, it's time to prepare the mounting surface. Clean and inspect the area to ensure there are no obstructions that could be affected by the mounting bolts. This includes items such as wires, pipes, or other components inside the van that could be damaged or compromised by the bolts. It is crucial to be meticulous in this step to avoid any costly mistakes.

The next step is to gather the necessary hardware, including the mounting bolts, spreader plates, and Nyloc nuts. Fiamma bike racks typically use two coach bolts per bracket, along with metal rectangular spreader plates that distribute the load of the rack. These spreader plates are an important factor in preventing fouling by providing a larger surface area for force distribution.

When you are ready to begin installation, start by drilling holes for the first bracket. Ensure that these holes are positioned accurately and do not interfere with any interior components. Apply a suitable sealant, such as sikaflex, to ensure watertightness around the bolts. Do not over-tighten the nuts, as this could cause damage to the construction of the rear wall, especially if it is made of sandwich-type material.

After securing the first bracket, use it as a reference point for installing the remaining brackets. Ensure that the mounting bolts are accessible and can be properly secured with the spreader plates and Nyloc nuts. Fiamma also provides cover-up plastic covers for the plates and bolts, so make sure there is sufficient space to accommodate these on the inside wall of your camper van.

By carefully following these steps, you can help ensure that the mounting bolts of your Fiamma bike rack do not foul anything inside your camper van, resulting in a safe and secure installation. Remember to consult with professionals or seek advice from your local dealer or manufacturer if you have any concerns or questions during the installation process.

Fitting a Fiamma bike rack to a VW Transporter

The Fiamma Carry-Bike VW T5 bike carrier is specifically designed for Volkswagen T5 minivans/camper vans with a single rear door. It can be easily installed using the standard delivered brackets. This bike carrier is suitable for VW California, VW Transporter, and VW Multivan models after 07/2003. The installation does not require drilling as the bike carrier simply hooks under and over the rear tailgate. However, it is important to note that it is not compatible with vans that have a rear spoiler.

The fitting process typically involves securing the bike rack with mounting bolts that go through the entire bodywork. Ensure that these bolts do not interfere with anything on the inside of your van. Place a metal rectangular spreader plate (8 x 4 cm) on each bracket and secure it with Nyloc nuts. Fiamma provides cover-up plastic covers for these plates/bolts, which are approximately 8.5 x 4.5 cm. Make sure there is sufficient space to accommodate the plates and covers on the inside wall of your vehicle.

Once you have determined the appropriate location, drill the holes for the first bracket and bolt it in place, using sikaflex or an equivalent sealant to ensure watertightness. You can then use this bracket as a reference point for installing the remaining brackets. Be careful not to over-tighten the nuts, as the construction of the rear wall of some transporters may be sandwich-type material.

The Fiamma Carry-Bike VW T6 PRO deep black is another option specifically for the VW T6 Transporter. This model is priced at £659.27, supplied and fitted, including VAT, with a fitting time of approximately 4 hours.

Fitting a Fiamma bike rack to a Vauxhall Vivaro

Step 1:

Before purchasing and installing the bike rack, it is advisable to consult your local dealer or the manufacturer to determine if the rear wall of your Vauxhall Vivaro has any strengthened points suitable for bike rack installation. This is an important step to ensure the bike rack can be safely and securely fitted to your vehicle.

Step 2:

Consider the weight and length of the bike rack. Fiamma bike racks typically weigh between 5kg to 18kg, and the maximum weight capacity for a 4-bike rack is 60kg. The added length of the bike rack, even when folded, is another factor to consider, especially if you have limited space in your driveway.

Step 3:

Determine the location of the bike rack. If you have a rear window, you may need to sacrifice the ability to open it, or opt for a shorter bike rack like the Fiamma Carry-Bike Pro C. If the only suitable location is high up, consider specialised models like the Fiamma Lift 77, which can be easily lowered to waist level for loading and unloading bikes.

Step 4:

Once you have determined the location, ensure that the mounting bolts will not interfere with the interior of your van. Place a metal rectangular spreader plate (8 x 4cm) on each bracket's two coach bolts and secure them with Nyloc nuts. Fiamma provides cover-up plastic covers for these plates and bolts, so make sure there is sufficient space to accommodate them.

Step 5:

Drill the first bracket's holes and bolt it in place, using sikaflex or an equivalent sealant to ensure watertightness. This first bracket will serve as the reference point for the remaining three brackets. Be careful not to over-tighten the nuts, as the construction of the rear wall of some vans may be a sandwich-type material.

Step 6:

Follow the instructions provided with your Fiamma bike rack for Vauxhall Vivaro to complete the installation. The rack is typically held in place by four pins in the mounting bars. You may also refer to online resources, such as step-by-step guides and videos, for additional visual guidance on the fitting process.

By following these steps, you can securely and safely fit a Fiamma bike rack to your Vauxhall Vivaro, allowing you to explore new locations on your bike without taking up valuable interior space in your camper van.

Frequently asked questions