2-Bike Hitch-Mount Platform Bike Carrier for 2012 Jeep That Will Clear Spare Tire

Question:

Hello I am comparing the Thule t2 pro bike rack and Kuat sherpa 2.0 rack and I am wondering if these models would work with a hitch extension. The spare tire on the back of my 2012 jeep wrangler JK sticks out about 8.5inch past the end of the hitch. Id like to stick with a hitch mount as opposed to a spare tire mounted bike rack so I was hoping a hitch extension would work. Thanks

asked by: Allan R

Expert Reply:

Hitch extensions like # MPG544 and # C45795 do give you instant additional clearance for an accessory item like the Thule T2 Pro # TH83JV and the Kuat Sherpa # SH22G platform bike racks. But the trouble is these adapters also cause you to lose 50-percent of your hitch's rated capacity because they move the actual load further away from the hitch which increases leverage on it. They also tend to add a lot more random motion of the rack when you're driving. It is best to select a bike rack that gives you the needed clearance without resorting to use of an adapter.

The T2 Pro rack # TH83JV when empty and folded up will be 5-inches from the hitch pin hole, much too close in your specific application. When unfolded and carrying bikes it will still be 7-inches away, still too close to avoid contact with your spare.

The Kuat Sherpa # SH22G does provide more clearance from the hitch pin hole, 7-1/2-inches when folded up and 11-inches when in the down position.

What you want to do is measure from the center of your hitch pin hole to the rear edge of your spare, and add about an inch for safety margin to ensure no contact between the rack and tire. I linked a helpful article that shows exactly how to do this.

For a 2-bike platform rack with a full 12-inches of clearance from the hitch pin hole I suggest the Swagman Dispatch # S44FR or the Saris Freedom 2 # SA4412B.