Spare Tire Bike Rack for a 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Question:

I need a 3 bike spare tire rack for a FJ Cruiser with camera. Can yours be adapted with a different plate?

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

Unfortunately FJ Cruisers with backup cameras can't have spare tire bike racks installed because of how the backup camera is mounted on the vehicle inside the spare tire cover. There is not a plate available to make a spare mounted rack work on one equipped with a backup camera.

You can however install a trailer hitch like the the Draw-Tite Class 3, part # 75461 and carry a trailer hitch mounted bike rack.

Because of your standard spare tire, you'll need at least 9 inches from the hitch pin to the nearest tray of the bike rack.

I recommend the Thule Helium Aero, part # TH9043PRO as a great pick for a 3 bike hanging rack that is compatible with your vehicle and work similarly to a Spare Tire rack. This rack includes integrated hitch and bike locks for added security. You'll need a frame adapter bar like part # 64005 to carry children's or alternate frame bikes so that your bikes ride level, rather than at an angle.

I've included a video of the installation process of the hitch, and a review of the Thule Helium so you can get familiar with its features and performance.