Hanging Bike Rack Recommendation For a Jeep That Clears the Spare Tire and Can Be Used for Skis

Question:

Will this model work with a Jeep wrangler and 35inch tire mounted on aftermarket tire carrier? If not, can I use extension? Need something I can use for both bikes and skis on my wrangler. thanks

asked by: Eric

Expert Reply:

Unless, you are carrying very light weight bikes, I do not recommend using a hitch extender. Using an extender decreases the tongue weight capacity of your hitch by 50 percent, and it adds an additional flex point.

Before choosing a hitch mounted bike rack, you will need to determine how much space you will need to clear the spare tire on your Jeep. I have included a link to one of our helpful articles that explains exactly how to do this.

Once you have determined the correct spacing that you need then you can select a hanging style hitch mounted bike rack. Then you can use the Yakima HitchSki # Y02418 that will mount on a hanging bike rack carrier. This will convert your bike rack to a ski/snowboard carrier, and is confirmed for use on the Yakima BighHorn, DoubleDown, FilpSide, and Swing Daddy.

If you happen to need less than 12 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the outer edge of your spare, then I recommend the Yakima FlipSide 4 Bike carrier. This bike rack has several convenient features such as the folding arms, and tilting mast option. This rack can carry up to 4 bikes and is rated for up to 120 pounds.

I have included links to the products mentioned above, a helpful article, and couple of videos for your reference.

expert reply by: Rachael H