Spare Tire Mount Bike Carrier for 3 Bikes on a 2000 Toyota RAV4

Question:

Hi I am looking for a 3 bike rack that will fit my 2000 Toyota RAV4. It has an off set rear tire and a 1 1/4 hitch. I have an Electra Townie and a Specialized Expedition that will be carried any time the rack is used. the third bike we will sometimes carry is my granddaughters 26 in Mt Bike. One rack I am considering is the 3 bike Sport Rack spare tire mount. Would it be alright to carry the townie and the expedition both facing the same way with an empty cradle in between them. if we flip them one will stick out at least a foot beyond the car. any suggestions?

asked by: Pam G

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can carry both bikes separated by an empty cradle on the SportRack spare tire mount bike carrier # SR2813 if you had to. A bike can stick out past the side of the vehicle. But if it sticks out further than the side mirrors it would be a good idea to make some adjustments.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical men's bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # 64005. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wife's bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my son's bike at all. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.

expert reply by: Michael H