Platform 2-Bike Rack for 2014 FJ Cruiser with Draw-Tite Hitch 75461

Question:

Will this bike rack fit on my 2014 FJ Cruiser? I just installed your Etrailer Trailer Hitchinch it was easy to install and fits perfectly, and would like to attach a bike rack to this new hitch that can handle mountain bikes and e-bikes. I like the Thule Easy Fold XT bike rack, but I am uncertain if it will fit with the spare tire also on the back of the vehicle. Will the Thule Easy Fold XT fit? Or if not, what would you recommend for my needs.

asked by: Jon L

Expert Reply:

I'm glad to hear your Draw-Tite custom-fit hitch # 75461 installation went well on your 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser and I can help you with measuring the FJ to confirm the hitch bike racks that you can use.

When we installed this hitch on a 2014 FJ we noted the center of the hitch pin hole was 8-1/2-inches from the back of the tire cover. Since the Thule EasyFold # TH903202 provides 9-inches of clearance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the rack's upright bar the fit will be too close and another rack will allow more space for your bikes and will work better for you. The linked article explains this clearance measurement.

I suggest the Saris Freedom 2 Bike Platform Rack # SA4412B-FB since it offers 10-inches of clearance from the hitch pin hole. This will give the rack plenty of space at your tire cover. The Freedom 2 also offers a 48-inch wheelbase compatibility (the same as the EasyFold) and a similar 60-lbs per bike weight rating. It handles tires up to 5-inches wide and it will fit in both 1-1/4-inch Class II and also 2-inch Class III hitches. Best of all (for many of us) is the Freedom's low 22-1/2-lb weight, half that of the EasyFold.

You may care to add an anti-rattle hitch lock # SA3022 and a cable lock for the bikes # SA981.