Can 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 Tailgate be Lowered with the Thule T2 Pro XTR Loaded and Tilted Down

Question:

I have a 2017 Silverado Z71 4x4 Pickup with factory Trailer Hitch. Will the Bike Rack loaded Fold Away enough to allow the tailgate to be lowered flat.

asked by: Alicia B

Expert Reply:

When the Thule T2 Pro XTR # TH83JV is tilted down it measures approximately 22-1/2 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the center of the first bike rail. It is possible that this is enough to lower the tailgate on your 2017 Chevy Silverado but you could measure on your truck to see. Lower the tailgate and measure from the center of the hitch pin hole to the end of the lowered tailgate.

One thing to consider though are the pedals on the bike loaded closest to the vehicle. They will stick out a little closer.

Another option is to use a swinging bike rack that can swing off to the side of the vehicle allowing you to lower the tailgate. The swinging rack we carry that's closest to the T2 Pro XTR is the RockyMounts BackStage # RKY10002. It's also a platform rack that'll carry two bikes at 60 pounds each. I have included a link to a video review of this rack for you.

expert reply by: Michael H