Which 2-Bike Carrier Should I Use On The Back Of My Towed Vehicle?

Question:

I am looking to buy either the Thule #TH83JV. I have a 2014 Jeep Wrangler that I willl use the carrier on. I also tow the Wrangler behind my motorhome from time to time. Is this carrier able to do that? Thanks for the help.

asked by: Dave C

Expert Reply:

I do have a solution for you, but the Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes 2" Hitches # TH83JV is not rated for Flat-Towing, so you will want to get a different bike rack that is built to withstand the extra stress that is brought about when mounted on the back of a towed vehicle.

If you would like a bike rack similar to the Thule T2 which mounts the bikes by the wheel, then I would look into Yakima HoldUp EVO Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount # Y02479. This is a really nice carrier that is suitable for carbon fiber bikes since the carrier secures the bike by the wheel, not the frame. It has a weight capacity of 50lbs per bike and can hold bike tires that are up to 4-13/16" wide so it will work well if you have electric or fat bikes. This carrier has built-in locks that are keyed-alike to deter theft of your bike and bike rack. Keep in mind this is not suitable for bikes equipped with front fenders or baskets since the wheel mount arm will likely interfere with that.

I highly recommend going with a different style bike carrier like the Swagman E-Spec Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # S94FR. This will work with many different types of bikes, including those with fenders and/or baskets on the front. It secures the bikes with a padded hook that ratchets down onto the bike frame. This has a much higher weight capacity at 70lbs per bike. Bikes with tires up to 3" wide can fit onto the tire cradles of the Swagman E-Spec; if you have tires wider than 3" then you will need to use Fat Tire Kit # S64679 which can hold up to 5" wide tires. This also has built-in locks that are keyed-alike which will deter theft of your bike and bike rack. One last thing to note about this bike rack; if you plan to haul a bike with an oddly-shaped frame (step-thru, women's, children's) then you will likely need Adapter Bar # UB01 to tightly secure those bikes to the carrier.

I have attached demonstration videos for you to check out.