Hitch Mount Bike Carrier that Allows Rear Hatch to Open on 2015 Jeep Cherokee

Question:

I saw a question asked on your site about whether the Thule T2 would fit a 2014 Cherokee and your response was that you had not tried it but based on your best estimate you should be able to open the rear hatch while loaded with bikes and angled down. Have you since confirmed whether this is true? Also, I noticed lots of pictures are using aftermarket hitches that sit BELOW the rear bumper. The factory piece protrudes THROUGH the bumper. Does this affect the fit?

asked by: Colin H

Expert Reply:

Since the factory trailer hitch on the 2015 Jeep Cherokee is higher up on the back of the vehicle than aftermarket hitches it would make it less likely that the rear hatch could open with the bike rack tilted down while loaded.

We have still not had the chance to test the Thule T2 Pro XTR # TH69XT on a 2015 Cherokee. But if you are looking to be able to open the rear hatch with bikes loaded then the best option is going to be a swinging bike rack such as the Apex, # TH9027XT. It will swing off to the side with or without bikes loaded allowing you to open the rear hatch. I have linked a video showing how it works.

On a hanging bike rack, 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