Spare Tire Bike Rack for 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser With Backup Camera

Question:

Im looking for a spare tire mounted bike rack only need to carry 1 or 2 mountain bikes for my 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser. However, my FJ has a rear mounted camera. I don't care if the rack blocks the view but I don't want to have to mess with the camera. I know I'll probably have to take the plastic cover off the spare tire which is fine - do you guys have any bike racks that would work for my situation?

asked by: Doug

Expert Reply:

There is a spare tire mounted bike rack that could work for your 2009 Toyota JF Cruiser so long as the spare tire is no more than 15" wide. If so, you would only need to remove the spare tire cover like you mentioned, and you could then use Hollywood Racks SR1 # HRSR1.

This is a 2-bike carrier that uses cradles with rubber straps in order to secure your bikes to the rack. It has a weight capacity of up to 35 lbs per bike and mounts around your spare tire using a brace and straps. Please keep in mind you may also need bike frame adapter bar # 64005 if one of you bikes has an alternative frame, such as a step-through frame. The bar will give those bikes a horizontal mounting point so they can be carried by the rack.

For security I recommend using the Thule Passive Security Strap for Trunk Mounted Bike Carriers # TH533, which will keep your bike rack locked to your vehicle when the rear hatch is shut. I've added links to review videos of both the rack and security strap for you to take a look at.

There is also the option of a hitch-mounted rack if your spare tire is too large or you simply wanted a rack you could continue to use should you decide to get another vehicle. For your current car, the '09 FJ Cruiser, you would first need a hitch, and I recommend the Draw-Tite # 75461 over the Curt due to the slightly easier install process. I've added a link to a video showing this hitch being installed on a 2008 FJ Cruiser for you to take a look at.

An economical but effective bike rack to check out is the Swagman Titan # S63400 which is a hanging rack that offers enough room to clear your spare tire, uses anti-sway cradles to secure your bikes to the rack, and a built-in cable that locks your bike to the mast. It also comes with an anti-rattle pin, though that could be replaced with the Swagman anti-rattle lock # S64029 to protect the rack from being stolen. Keep in mind you may need the bike adapter bar for this hanging rack as well.