Will the Thule EasyFold XT Fit My 2018 Jeep Wrangler?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

While the Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202 will work on a compatible hitch receiver on your 2018 Jeep Wrangler like the etrailer Hitch - 2" # e98856, you have to consider the bumper/spare tire clearance. According to my research, 2018 Jeep Wranglers have a standard tire size of 255/75-17. With this size, your spare tire is 10 inches wide from the bumper. Also, you have to factor in the distance from the center of the pinhole of the hitch receiver to the end of the spare bumper. This is about 1/2 an inch on the # e98856. Unfortunately, with a tire width of 10 inches and a bumper clearance of about 1/2 an inch, you will not be able to use the Thule EasyFold XT without a hitch extender because the measurement from the rack's pinhole to the upright bar of the carrier is only 8 inches long.

If you are set with using the EasyFold XT, you can always use the Brophy Hitch Extender - 2" Hitches # HE06. This will give you the bumper and tire clearance you need in order to use the rack. However, it must be noted that the hitch extender will decrease the overall weight capacity of the hitch by 50%.

If you are looking to use a rack with a ramp, we do not have one that has a long enough shank to use without a hitch extender that will work. However, a great option of a rack that does have a long enough shank without a ramp, I recommend the Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches # SA4412B. The Freedom measures 12 inches from the center of the shank pinhole to the closest wheel tray. If you have bikes with tires greater than 2-1/4 inches wide, you will need to use the fat tire adapter # SA4419.

expert reply by: Bob C

0