Will the Thule Spare Me Spare Tire Mount Bike Rack Fit a 2008 Toyota RAV4

Question:

Will the Thule spare me fit? Can I open side opening door on the rear while bike is in place? Does it fold down when not in use...able to open door when not in use also? Is it easy to install ?

asked by: Linda C

Expert Reply:

The Thule Spare Me, # TH963PRO, is a fit for your 2008 Toyota RAV4. It is very easy to install. I have included a link to a video review on a 2009 RAV4 showing how it installs.

You will not want to open the rear door with bikes loaded on the rack because that can put too much stress on the hinges of the door. Having just the rack on and no bikes would not be an issue.

You can fold the arms down on the rack when it is not in use so it will not stick out as far or cause clearance problems like when parking in a garage or other area with limited space.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical mens bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # TH982XT. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wifes bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my sons bike at all.

expert reply by: Michael H