Bike Rack Compatible With Both The 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited And A 2015 Nissan Rogue

Question:

Im interested in the Swagman Trailhead 2 bike rack to use with my 2011 Jeep Wrangler Sport Unlimited and a 2015 Nissan Rogue. The Wrangler has a 2inch hitch receiver and the Rogue has a 1 1/4inch receiver. Do you think that this bike rack will work? There is a 17inch spare tire on the back of the Wrangler and I also have a hitch extender if necessary. It looks like this rack will work without the extender, but I want a recommendation from etrailer. Thanks

asked by: Maria L

Expert Reply:

The Swagman Trailhead 4 Bike Rack part # S63380 will be a good option for you. It is compatible with both 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers. It comes with an adapter sleeve to allow for 2" hitch receiver applications. However, you will only be able to carry 2 bikes at a time while using any bike rack on a Class I hitch receiver.

The Swagman Trailhead has an upright mast that is 9-1/4" away from the center of this hitch pin hole. Therefore, you will want to be using the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # DT78MR on your 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited in order for this bike rack to clear the spare tire.

A better option for a bike rack that is compatible with both 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers in addition to providing enough clearance between the center of the hitch pin hole to the outer portion of the tire on your 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with all hitch receiver is the Thule Hitching Post Pro part # TH934XTR. In order to store alternative frame bikes at a level position, I also recommend using the Thule Bike Adapter Bar part # TH982XT.

I do not recommend using a hitch extender because it will reduce the tongue weight capacity of your hitch by 50% which will also decrease the selection of bikes that will be compatible with a bike rack due to weight limitations. I have attached a test course video on each bike rack for you.