Thule Spare Me Rack on 2010 Rav4 with Back Up Camera

Question:

I see that I cannot use a Thule Spare Me 2 bike carrier if I have a backup camera on my 2010 Rav4. Why? What are the alternatives? I can live without the camera for a short term. Thanks!

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

I spoke with the folks at Thule regarding the spare tire bike carrier you mentioned. They said the # TH963PRO would actually fit your vehicle, although installing the mounting plate would require the removal of the back-up camera, which you may find too inconvenient to deal with.

Another option you may consider would be a hitch, like Curt Class lll, part # 13509 along with a hitch mounted bike carrier.

If full access through the cargo door is not important I would recommend either the Swagman Trailhead 2 Bike Carrier, part # S63360, or the 4 bike option, part # S63380. They feature a tilt-away design that would allow limited access through the cargo door.

If having full access through the cargo door while the rack is installed is important to you I would recommend the Yakima FullSwing rack, part # Y02465. This rack also features sliding anti-sway cradles that provide more stability.

I have linked you to a video explaining the installation of the # TH963PRO, and also product review
videos for the tilting bike racks.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

Kay

6/8/2024

Hi Jeff, I’d like to clarify your reply. We purchased the 963Pro spare tire mount for our 2012 Rav4 without an issue but it doesn’t have a backup camera. Can I assume that Any mfg rack that mounts on the spare tire won’t work for vehicles with back up cameras? We’re selling our rack & want to disclose in the Ad. Thanks

Kevin C.

6/10/2024

@Kay In most cases a spare tire bike rack will interfere with the view of the backup camera. There might be some outliers where you luck out and get a gap in just the right spot to see but usually the rack and/or bike(s) will block the view,