Welcome to Towbars Online! A swivel module for towbar-mounted bicycle carriers is a special mechanism that allows the carrier mounted on the vehicle to swivel to the side to allow access to the boot without having to remove the carrier. This is particularly useful for estate cars, SUVs or MPVs where access to the rear load space is often required.
How does a pivoting arm for a bike rack?
A swivel arm is an additional device that is fitted between the towbar and the bicycle carrier. It is fitted with one or more hinges that allow the carrier to be swung to the side if necessary. Depending on the model and manufacturer, the bike carrier can be mounted either directly on the towing hitch or on the swivel module. A simple gesture is all it takes to swing the carrier to the side and open the boot. After use, the carrier is returned to its original position and secured.

Swivel pivoting for bike carrier on campervan
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a pivoting module for bike racks?
There are both practical advantages and some potential disadvantages to a pivoting bike carrier. Here are the main advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages of a swivel arm
- Easy access to the boot:
- The main feature of a swivel arm is the ability to swivel the carrier sideways. This makes it easy to open the boot without having to remove the carrier or the bikes.
- Convenient and time-saving:
- Swivelling the bike carrier is quick and easy and saves time, especially on long journeys when the boot is used more frequently.
- No need to dismantle:
- No need to dismantle and reassemble the bike carrier several times, which is particularly useful if you need to access the boot regularly.
Disadvantages of a pivoting module
- Additional cost:
- A pivoting module is generally more expensive than a traditional bike rack, as it involves an additional mechanism and therefore a higher initial cost.
- Vehicle specific solution:
- A swivel module is generally not a universal product. To install it, most manufacturers require vehicle-specific brackets. This makes installation relatively complicated and time consuming, making it difficult to remove the module.
- Special towbar:
- In most cases, vehicles already fitted with a towbar will have to remove it, as swivel modules often require additional supports on the vehicle chassis.
- If a new towbar is being fitted at the same time as the modular arm, manufacturers of swivel modules often offer their own towbars. These are usually designed specifically for the swivel module, which can make them more expensive. In addition, the height of the towball is often reduced to make room for the main swivel beam.
- More weight and complexity:
- Fitting the swivel module involves more weight and technical complexity, which can make handling the bracket or installing it on the vehicle more difficult.
- Overall dimensions :
- The pivoting mechanism requires additional space behind the vehicle. Swivelling the bike rack can be problematic in narrow parking spaces or in confined areas.
- Maintenance :
- The hinges and moving parts of the swivel module must be checked and serviced regularly to ensure trouble-free operation. This may result in higher maintenance costs.

BusBiker XM290 – Pivoting arm for bike rack
Who makes swivel arms for bicycle racks on towbars?
There are several manufacturers of swivelling modules for bicycle racks on towbars. These arms make it easier to access the boot when the carrier is fitted, without having to remove the carrier. Here are some of the better known suppliers:
- Van-Swing (Memo Europe): This swivel arm is particularly popular for motorhomes and vans. It allows you to swivel the carrier to open the rear doors. The Van-Swing is available for several vehicle types, including Fiat Ducato, VW T5/T6 and Ford Transit Custom, and has a load capacity of around 60kg.
- SMV Swing Carry (SMV metal): This swivel and lift module is specifically designed for vans. It has a load capacity of up to 60kg and is particularly suitable for transporting electric bikes. It can be fully swung to the side to allow access to the rear doors.
- Minnid (Jopindo): Minnid offers a modular swivelling carrier system that can be used for bicycles, motorbikes or luggage boxes. It has a high load capacity of up to 150 kg and is aimed primarily at vans and motorhomes.
- Swingy (LEMET): LEMET offers a universal and more economical solution. The Swingy module fits almost all vehicles equipped with a towbar and flange towball and allows access to the boot by swinging the bike carrier to the side.
One of the great advantages of the Swingy is its universality – it can be fitted to vehicles with 2 or 4 hole hitchball and is equally suitable for tailgates and rear doors. Compatible models include the Fiat Ducato, Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit. The purchase price starts at around €500, making it a low-cost alternative to other solutions. However, the module is not suitable for towbars with a swanneck towball.
Other manufacturers: there are other products, such as the BusBiker XM290 and SpaceMaker, which offer similar functions. These systems have similar advantages and disadvantages to the above models, and cost between €700 and €2000, depending on equipment and manufacturer.

SWINGY from LEMET – Swivel module
Conclusion
A swivel module for a bicycle carrier is an excellent solution for continuing to use the boot of a vehicle when a bicycle carrier is fitted. It offers a number of advantages, including comfort and flexibility, as well as quick access to the boot without having to dismantle the bike carrier each time.
Among the various models available, LEMET’s SWINGY module stands out for its universality: it fits most vehicles equipped with a flange hitchball and offers an affordable solution for car owners who need to access their boot regularly. A particularly positive feature is that SWINGY can be fitted to both tailgates and rear doors and is suitable for vehicles such as the Fiat Ducato, Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit.
The SWINGY swivel module is also available on several platforms, such as AHK-ONLINESHOP and X-CAMPING, making it an easily accessible product.
With a starting price of around €500, it is a low-cost alternative to other, more expensive swivel modules. Despite certain limitations, such as its incompatibility with swanneck towball, SWINGY remains a highly recommended solution for anyone looking for a flexible and affordable way to use their bike carrier effectively on a daily basis.