Thule T2 Classic VS Thule DoubleTrack Pro XT for a 1997 Dodge Van with Spare Tire

Question:

We have a camper van Dodge xplorer 1997 . Want rack for it 2 inch hitch, for two non- e bikes.Your pictures of the thule double trax pro Xt show LOTS of room til the first bike but you answered Helen saying it has 6 inches! REI says the T2 classic has 20 inches. Hard to believe the lower priced pro XT really has 6 inches! Our spare tire is HIGHER than on most cars lowest edge about 12 in off ground, I did not measure that one. This is driving us crazy trying to get this right We do not much care if it folds up we need 12 in horizontal clearance from hitch pin hole to the back of the spare tire Please advise and thanks

asked by: Jean A

Expert Reply:

I went ahead and confirmed with Thule that the distance between the center of the hitch pinhole to the first bike position on the DoubleTrack Pro XT # TH92BJ measures 6 inches long. The same measurement on the Thule T2 Classic # TH9045 is only 3-1/2". The T2 Classic is also only available for 1-1/4" hitches, so it won't be compatible with a 2" hitch.

If you are absolutely set on using the # TH92BJ, you can always purchase a hitch extender to get the length you need. The first thing you need to do to determine the length you need is to measure the length from the center of the hitch's pinhole to the outside face of your spare tire. I went ahead and attached a photo that shows this measurement. From that, you measure 6 inches included on the shank length of the DoubleTrack Pro XT. This is the length of extender you need.

If you are open to an alternative rack that has a super long shank, I recommend using the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches # HR200Z. This rack comes with a shank measured 12-1/8" from the center of the pinhole to the closest part of the rack. If you happen to have step-thru frames, women's-style frames, or children's bikes, you need to purchase a bike frame adapter bar # 64005 to attach those bike styles to the ratcheting hooks.

For a great 2" hitch for your 1997 Dodge Van, I recommend either the Curt - 2" # C13041 (for full-size vans with standard bumpers) or the # 13590 (for full-size vans with factory step bumpers). Both of these hitches come with an easy installation process that only takes about 30 minutes to complete. Also, both of these models include a superior gloss outer coat over the base powder coat that provide you with better protection against rust/corrosion than our Draw-Tite alternatives.

I attached some helpful demo videos to help assist you.