Best Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Options for a 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited to Clear Spare Tire

Question:

Was wondering what hitch and platform bike rack would work best for my 2017 Jeep Wrangler rubicon recon edition? It has 33/12.50 17 tires.

asked by: Kevin

Expert Reply:

I recommend going with the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # DT78MR for your 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. This is a custom fit trailer hitch that has a tongue weight (TW) of 675 lbs so it can easily handle the weight of a bike rack and bikes.

For a bike rack the trick is choosing one that has enough room to accommodate your spare tire. The Yakima HoldUp # Y02443 would be a good option for you because it measures 12" from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest wheel holder. When the bike rack is folded up that measures 7". This bike rack comes with bike and rack locks plus it can carry up to two 60 lb bikes.

If your goal is to access the rear hatch of your Jeep while the bikes are loaded then you want to go with the Yakima FullSwing # Y02465 instead. This measures 15" from the center of the hitch pin hole to the upright and allows you to swing your bikes away from the vehicle while they are still loaded. The FullSwing also comes with integrated bike and rack locks.

And finally if you are just looking for a spare mount carrier I recommend the Thule Spare Me # TH963PRO. This is a great bike rack but you do need to remove your bikes before opennening your rear hatch area.

An installation video of the trailer hitch has been installed as well as some review videos of the bike racks on Jeep Wrangler Unlimited models.