What to do if Your New Bike Rack Doesn't Have Enough Clearance for Your Vehicle

Question:

The bike rack does not have enough clearance to be used on my Jeep.

asked by: Tony H

Expert Reply:

It looks like you ordered the Swagman XC 2-Bike Rack, part # S64650, and it's not clearing your Jeep well.

You can always look at exchanging bike racks, but I believe I have a better solution. You can use a hitch extender to give you the clearance that you need.

Normally, using a hitch extender is a worry because it will reduce your hitch's tongue weight capacity by 50%. However, in this case, the XC only weighs around 30 pounds and can only support 70 pounds for the bikes, making the most your hitch will have to carry 100 pounds. Most hitch's can handle this fine, even with their capacity reduced by 50%.

If you have a 1-1/4" receiver, I recommend the Curt Extender, part # D189. This will give you an additional 7".

If you have a 2" receiver, I recommend the Brophy Extender, part # HE06, which will also give you 7".

I've linked to video reviews of both of these for your consideration.