What 4-Bike Rack do You Recommend for Putting on the Back of My Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Question:

I found another recommendation on your website for a Thule Apex XT 4-bike rack and wondered what your thoughts are on this for my Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 2021 80th Anniversary Edition? How about the Thule Adapter Bar? Also, would I need to order a separate hitch for this Thule bike rack?

asked by: Rebecca P

Helpful Expert Reply:

With transporting 4 bikes, I recommend a platform-style hitch bike rack. For this route, I suggest the Curt 4 Bike Platform Rack - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount - Tilting # C18087. The Curt 4 has a maximum per-bike weight capacity of 45 pounds and can hold bikes with maximum tire widths of 3 inches wide. Since your bikes have alternate frame styles, I recommend a Swagman Deluxe Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's, Children's, and Alternative Frame Bikes # 64005 for each bike that has that frame style.

For a trailer hitch recommendation, I would be happy to assist you if you provide the year of your Jeep Grand Cherokee.

expert reply by: Bob C

Rebecca P.

1/1/0001

Bob C.

6/25/2021

The Thule Apex XT # TH9025XT is a great option if you want a high-quality rack that uses the hanging style as opposed to the platform style of the Curt 4 # C18087. The Thule Apex XT 4 also has a sleek design and will look great on your 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee 80 Anniversary Edition. The only potential issue is that you will have to lift the bikes higher to load on this rack (and all other hanging-style racks). If you have light bikes, this will not be an issue. As far as the bike adapter bar, the Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes # TH982XT accomplishes the same thing as the previously mentioned Swagman Deluxe Bike frame, but it does have a different style. If you want another option of a bike adapter bar that would look great with the Thule Apex XT, you might want to take a look at the sleek Yakima Tube Top Bike Adapter Bar # Y02531. As far as a hitch, the Thule Apex XT will fit a 2-inch trailer hitch receiver. I did some research on your vehicle that it is possible for you to get a factory hitch on your Grand Cherokee. If you have a 2-inch hitch installed, the Apex XT will fit. If you need a hitch recommendation, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e98901. The etrailer hitch receiver comes with all hardware necessary for an easy, bolt-on installation. I went ahead and attached an installation video that shows the installation process.