Trailer Hitch Platform Bike Rack that Will Clear 2013 Jeep Wrangler Spare Tire When Rack is Folded

Question:

I was wondering if this rack would fold up and still have some clearance with the spare tire. My hitch receiver is a Reese Part Number: 44557. Measuring from the outermost hole in the receiver to the edge of the spare tire, it appears I have right around 4.5 inches.

asked by: James S

Expert Reply:

That outer most hole you are measuring from is not a hitch pin hole. It is there for a J-pin anti-rattle device that is no longer available. You would need to measure from the center of the other hole. On the stock spare tire on the 2013 Jeep Wrangler Sahara that measurement should be around 6 inches.

The T2 Pro XTR, # TH83JV measures 5 inches from hitch pin hole center to the bike carrier rails when folded so it would not work.

A similar rack, the Yakima HoldUp # Y02443, measures 7 inches from the center of the pin hole to the closest wheel holder when folded up so it would be the better option. I have linked a video review of the rack for you.

And the Kuat Sherpa, # S101, measures 7-3/4 inches from the center of the pin hole to the platform when folded up. I have included a link to a video of this bike rack as well.

expert reply by: Michael H