How Can I Open Tailgate of 2019 Ram 1500 With Bicycle Rack On Hitch?

Question:

I am looking at the Thule T2 Pro XT rack for my 2019 Ram Limited 1500. I have several questions I am hoping you can assist me on. Will the tailgate clear the rack without any bikes on it? Will the rack clear the tailgate with bikes on the rack and it tilted? If not, will it clear the tailgate with a 7 inch hitch extender or do I to purchase a hitch rack swing adapter? Thank you in advance for your help on this issue.

asked by: Jerome B

Expert Reply:

With the Thule T2 Pro XTS Bike Rack, # TH9035XTS, installed on your 2019 Ram 1500 the tailgate will not fully open with or without the bikes loaded. You could possibly extend the bike rack out far enough to drop the tailgate using a hitch extender such as the Curt, # C45791 or something longer but this is not a good move. Using hitch extenders of this type reduces the TW by half and would also introduce a lot movement to the bike rack, that torque can be detrimental and damage things. I suggest the RockyMounts BackStage Bike Rack for 2 Bikes, # RKY10002. This has a weight capacity of 60 lbs. per bike and the swing-away design allows you to access your rear cargo area without removing bikes from rack.

expert reply by: Michael R