4 BIke Platform Rack that Clears the Spare Tire on a 2013 Jeep Wrangler  

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If you haven't picked up a hitch for your vehicle yet, I recommend the DrawTite Class III hitch, part # DT78MR as this has the widest range of compatibility with the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited bumpers. This will require that you either have the Mopar offroad bumper or all modifications and excess welding removed to install this receiver. I've included a video of our install team showing this on a 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

For standard tires on a 2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, bike racks need about 5.5 inches from the center of their hitch pin hole to the nearest point. I do recommend taking this measurement for yourself, as it can vary by vehicle and tire size. To find your clearance requirement, you'll simply measure from the hole on the trailer hitch receiver to the furthest point of your spare tire. Any bike rack that you purchase will need to have a nearest point when folded down of at least 6 inches. If you want to use the folding up feature of a rack, it will have to have a nearest point when folded up of at least 6 inches.

I've included a link to our FAQ about taking this measurement to help you get the most accurate distance.

One of the most popular 4 bike racks is the Thule T2 Pro XTR, part # TH69TX. This four bike rack has adjustable wheel cradles that let a range of bikes up to 50.5 inches wide fit on the rack. It can fit wheels between 20 and 29 inches in diameter and up to 5 inches wide. Each bike on this rack can weigh up to 40 pounds a piece. The T2 Pro also includes integrated bike and hitch lock, plus Thule's tool free installation makes it a breeze to install on your Jeep Wrangler.

The Thule T2 Pro XTR's closest point when installed is 7 inches, and when folded is 5 inches to its closest point. This will clear a standard spare tire, but likely won't be able to fold up behind your vehicle.

I also strongly recommend the Made in the USA Saris Freedom SuperClamp EX, part # SA4026F which is a wheel mount. These lightweight, efficient racks are built to carry bikes up to 60 pounds in the inner position and 35 pounds in the outer position. The adjustable wheel cradles work with clamping wheel mounts to accommodate most bikes with up to a 48 inch wheelbase. Integrated hitch and cable locks add security for your bikes. One of my favorite features of Saris racks is that they are covered by a lifetime warranty through Saris, giving you a long term resource for keeping this rack in use for a long time to come. This rack will tilt away from the vehicle for rear hatch access, but will likely not be able to fold up against your vehicle.

The Freedom SuperClamp EX"s closest point is 14 inches from the hitch pin hole when folded down and 5-1/4 inches when folded up. This is able to clear a standard spare tire, but may not be able to fold up behind the vehicle.

I've included videos of all of these racks in action on the same Toyota 4Runner so you can compare and contrast their features and make the best choice for your adventures and vehicle.

expert reply by: Jacob W

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