How to Determine if a Bike Rack will Clear the Spare Tire on a 2011 Toyota RAV4

Question:

I have a 2011 Toyota RAV4 Sport. I am interested in the Swagman bike racks, because I do not really want a hanging type of rack, because I carry womens bikes, and using a crossbar accessory is not desired. I noticed in your recommendations that the Swagman 64698 was one of the recommended rack for a 2014 RAV4, but I was wondering if that rack would fit my 2011, which has a rear mounted spare tire. Wondering if there is enough clearance or not. I noticed that the Swagman XTC-2 was recommended for my RAV4, but thought the heavier 2inch might be better for my Sport model, which has stiffer suspension, and may bounce the bikes a bit more. Thoughts?

asked by: Bernie

Expert Reply:

In order to determine if a bike rack will clear the spare tire on your 2011 Toyota RAV4, you will need to measure from the center of the hitch pin hole to the outermost portion of the spare tire. The Swagman XTC-2 part # S64670 measures 8" from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest part of the carrier.

When we installed the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver part # e98864 on a similar 2010 Toyota RAV4 we found this distance to be 4". Therefore, the Swagman XTC-2 would clear the spare tire.

expert reply by: Conner L