Best Trailer Hitch And Bike Rack for 2012 Toyota RAV4 With Spare Tire

Question:

I have a 2012 Toyota Rav4 Limited that Id like to get a trailer hitch for a bike rake, but I worry about the clearance between the rack and the spare tire cover. How far does the hitch stick out so I can check if this would be an issue?

asked by: Cody

Expert Reply:

The etrailer hitch part # e98864 is the best option for the RAV4 to carry a bike rack because it provides an extra 2-1/2 inches of spare tire clearance compared to the other options. The etrailer hitch installed on a 2012 Toyota RAV4 has 8 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole (where a bike rack would pin into) to the farthest edge of the spare tire cover. I have attached an installation video for your reference.

I recommend the Thule Hitching Post Pro part # TH934XTR for the 2012 Toyota RAV4 because it provides the best spare tire clearance and features for the price point. The Hitching Post Pro shank measures 13-1/2 inches so you do not have to worry about spare tire clearance at all. The rack completely tilts-away for complete rear cargo area access. If you need to get cargo from the back of the RAV4 you do not have to completely take the bike rack off of the vehicle compared to other bike racks that only allow the rear door to open half way. The arms also fold down when not in use. I have attached a video of the Hitching Post Pro on a 2012 Toyota RAV4.

The locks are not included with the Hitching Post Pro so you need part # THSTL2 to lock the rack to the hitch. Thule uses a threaded hitch bolt so you cannot use any other lock with the bike rack. I also recommend locking the bikes to the rack with part # TH538XT.

expert reply by: Heather A