Finding the perfect bike rack and storage solution for van life can be challenging, especially when you’re a solo traveler with specific needs. After purchasing my Aventon Pace 500 Step-Through eBike, I quickly realized that standard bike rack options just weren’t going to cut it for my road trips. Most hitch racks are designed for multiple bikes, which felt like overkill and wasted space for my solo adventures. Plus, with limited roof space already occupied by solar panels and traction boards, adding a bulky roof box wasn’t ideal, and accessing it with a ladder seemed cumbersome. I needed a hitch-mounted solution that could handle both my e-bike and provide external storage, but the market seemed to lack a combined option.
Initially, I explored hinge rack systems like those offered by Owl Vans and Aluminess. These seemed promising at first glance, but several drawbacks emerged upon closer inspection. Firstly, they required replacing my van’s existing 270-degree hinges with less functional 45-degree versions. Secondly, lifting my heavier e-bike onto an elevated box would be physically demanding. Thirdly, the storage box sizes offered were insufficient for larger items like my inflatable kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Finally, I was concerned about the added weight impacting the van doors and hinges over time. Compounding these issues, both companies had lengthy waitlists for installation, and I was eager to hit the road to Baja before the holidays.
Frustrated with the limitations of off-the-shelf solutions, I decided to explore a custom-built alternative. Through a referral from Lenny’s Bike Shop, I connected with Ian, a local welder, to discuss the feasibility of my vision. While Ian was initially unsure about creating exactly what I envisioned, he wisely directed me to Ryan and Ken at Carrve Custom Vans, a reputable van conversion shop in the area. Ryan at Carrve Custom Vans proved to be incredibly helpful and enthusiastic about designing a bespoke solution. He even showed me an Owl Vans setup firsthand, which helped solidify my decision against a vertical bike rack and small storage box combination. It became clear that a custom approach was the best path forward to achieve a truly functional and space-efficient custom car hitch rack with tool box tailored to my solo van life needs.
