Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter Review

Field Notes on the Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter

The Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter is an ingenious accessory designed specifically for owners of Lippert’s Jack-It bike racks. This adapter allows users to seamlessly transfer their bike rack setup from a travel trailer to a tow vehicle, offering unprecedented flexibility for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. My need for this product arose from a recurring frustration: constantly having to dismantle and reassemble my bike rack when moving between our RV and our truck for local excursions. I considered generic hitch extenders, but none offered the integrated design and specific functionality for my existing Jack-It system. My initial impression of this adapter was one of solid construction and thoughtful engineering, hinting at a solution that would simplify my travels.

I first encountered the need for a solution like the Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter when we started using our travel trailer more frequently. The Jack-It bike rack, while excellent for keeping bikes secure on the trailer, became an inconvenient burden when we wanted to take the bikes for a spin around a new campsite or explore a nearby town without towing the entire RV. Having to unbolt and then re-secure the rack to the trailer’s hitch receiver every time we wanted to use the truck for a short trip was a time-consuming and frankly, annoying, chore. This adapter promised to eliminate that hassle, allowing for a quick switch between tow vehicle and trailer.

Upon unboxing, the adapter presented itself as a robust piece of equipment. The main component, a sturdy metal receiver insert, felt substantial in hand. The included hardware, such as the NoMotion pins and the various wrenches, were all neatly organized and appeared to be of good quality. It’s clear Lippert has put thought into the user experience, providing everything needed for immediate installation. My first reaction was a sense of relief and anticipation, a feeling that this simple accessory might indeed solve a significant pain point in our camping routine.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter took place in my home garage and then immediately at our campsite. I wanted to simulate the exact scenario it was designed for: quickly moving the bike rack from our travel trailer’s hitch to our tow vehicle. The installation onto the tow vehicle’s receiver hitch was straightforward; the adjustable aluminum adapter cinched down snugly, eliminating any wobble. Attaching the BikeWing assembly from the Jack-It to this adapter was equally simple, utilizing the same NoMotion pins I was already familiar with.

The real test came when we arrived at a new campground. Instead of spending precious recreation time wrestling with bolts, I simply detached the BikeWing from the trailer hitch attachment and plugged it into the Bump It on the truck. The entire transfer took less than five minutes, a dramatic improvement over the previous method. I tested it on pavement and also on some slightly uneven gravel at the campsite, and in both scenarios, the adapter remained secure and vibration-free, thanks to the NoMotion pins. There were no initial surprises or quirks; it performed exactly as advertised from the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over a full camping season, involving numerous trips and frequent transitions between the trailer and tow vehicle, the Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter proved to be a reliable and indispensable piece of gear. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve made the switch, but each time, the process remains quick and effortless. Despite constant exposure to dust, road grime, and occasional light rain, the adapter shows no significant signs of wear. The textured, powder-coated finish has resisted scratching admirably, and the aluminum adapter maintains its snug fit without any loosening.

Compared to previous jerry-rigged solutions or the constant disassembly required before, this adapter is a night-and-day difference. The 80 lbs. load rating has proven more than adequate for our bike setup. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed. The secure fit and the robust design mean I haven’t had to re-adjust the hitch receiver clamping mechanism since the initial setup. This unit has certainly exceeded my expectations for durability and consistent performance in a practical, high-use scenario.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter

Specifications

The Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter boasts several key specifications designed for ease of use and broad compatibility. It features an adjustable aluminum adaptor that fits most automobile and RV hitches, ensuring it can be used across different vehicles. The overall length is 22.5 inches, providing sufficient extension, with 17 inches of inside bike clearance, crucial for preventing handlebar interference. A significant specification is its 80 lbs. load rating, which is ample for most common bike rack and bike combinations. The package includes the Bump-It accessory itself, two NoMotion pins, a locking hair pin, an Allen wrench, an adjuster wrench, and necessary washers, making it a complete kit.

These specifications translate directly into practical benefits. The adjustable aluminum adaptor means I don’t have to worry about buying different adapters for our different vehicles, saving both money and hassle. The 17 inches of inside bike clearance is a critical design element that prevents the bikes from hitting the tow vehicle or other accessories. The 80 lbs. load rating provides peace of mind, assuring me that the adapter can handle the weight of our bikes and rack safely, even on rougher terrain. The inclusion of all necessary hardware in the package is a thoughtful touch, eliminating the need for a separate trip to the hardware store.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter performs exceptionally well. Its core purpose is to facilitate the quick transfer of a bike rack between a travel trailer and a tow vehicle, and it excels at this. The system is designed around the Lippert Jack-It bike rack, and when used with that system, it’s seamless. The adapter holds the BikeWing assembly securely, with no noticeable play or rattle during transit, thanks to the NoMotion pins.

The main strength here is the sheer convenience it offers; it eliminates a significant point of friction in our travel setup. The adapter’s ability to integrate with the existing Jack-It system means no need to buy a completely new rack for the tow vehicle. A potential weakness, though minor, is that it is intrinsically tied to the Lippert Jack-It system; if you don’t have that specific rack, this adapter is not useful. For its intended purpose, however, it not only meets expectations but significantly improves the camping experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter is both functional and practical. The main body is constructed from what feels like heavy-duty steel with a textured, powder-coated finish that is indeed resistant to scratches and provides a good grip. The aluminum adapter insert is lightweight yet strong and features adjustment points that are easy to manipulate with the included wrench. The overall aesthetic is utilitarian, as expected for a trailer accessory, but it feels robust and well-made.

Ergonomically, the adapter is straightforward. The receiver tube is a standard size, and the NoMotion pins slide in easily to secure the BikeWing assembly. There’s no complex learning curve; the operation is intuitive and built around familiar hitch receiver and pin mechanisms. The inclusion of the locking hair pin with the pins is a small but appreciated detail, adding an extra layer of security against accidental dislodging.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the durability of the Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter appears to be excellent. The materials and finish suggest it’s built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use and constant connection/disconnection. I haven’t encountered any signs of corrosion or structural weakness, even after being exposed to various weather conditions.

Maintenance is thankfully very simple. A quick rinse with water or a wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. The 80 lbs. load rating implies it’s designed for regular use, and I don’t foresee any common failure points unless it’s subjected to extreme abuse beyond its design parameters. The key to longevity here, as with most hitch accessories, will be ensuring the pins are kept clean and properly lubricated.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter comes as a complete package, including the essential NoMotion pins and a locking hair pin. These pins are critical for ensuring a rattle-free and secure connection of the BikeWing assembly. The inclusion of an Allen wrench and an adjuster wrench for the hitch adapter means you have all the necessary tools right out of the box.

Regarding customization, this adapter is specific to the Lippert Jack-It bike rack system. While the hitch receiver insert itself is adjustable for a snug fit in different hitch sizes, there are no other real customization options for the adapter itself. It’s designed to do one job, and it does it very well without needing modification. Its compatibility is limited to users of the Lippert Jack-It bike rack, but within that ecosystem, it’s a perfect fit.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter

Who Should Buy Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter?

This adapter is an absolute must-have for anyone who owns a Lippert Jack-It bike rack and frequently moves their travel trailer or RV. If you value convenience and want to save time and effort when transitioning between your tow vehicle and your campsite for short excursions, this is the product for you. It’s perfect for campers, RV enthusiasts, and anyone who likes to take their bikes along for the ride and needs the flexibility to use them independently of the main trailer.

However, if you do not own a Lippert Jack-It bike rack, this adapter will not be of any use to you. Those who only ever use their bikes directly at the campsite without needing to transport them via their tow vehicle might also find it unnecessary. For those who do buy it, ensuring the NoMotion pins are kept clean will be the primary “maintenance” tip for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter

The Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter is a brilliantly simple solution to a common problem faced by RVers with bike racks. Its robust build, ease of use, and direct integration with the Lippert Jack-It system make it an invaluable accessory for anyone looking to enhance their camping convenience. The adapter’s ability to facilitate quick transfers between vehicles saves a considerable amount of time and frustration, allowing more time for enjoyment and less for setup.

Considering its effectiveness and the quality of its construction, the $103.99 price point represents excellent value for money. For owners of the Jack-It system, this adapter is not just a convenience; it’s a necessary component that elevates the entire user experience. I wholeheartedly recommend the Lippert 723359 Bump It Receiver Adapter to any Jack-It owner seeking to streamline their travel setup.