Using Swagman Trailhead # S63380 Bike Rack with Hitch Extender on 2007 Toyota Rav4

Question:

I have just purchased a rack and a hitch extension. I want to know if these products will work properly on my 2007 RAV-4? Thanks

asked by: Tony

Expert Reply:

Using an extension will lower the tongue weight capacity (maximum amount of downward force that can be applied to the hitch) by half. This means that if your hitch has a 350 lb tongue weight capacity, using the extender will cut that to 175 lbs, which means that the rack plus the bikes placed on it can't weigh more than 175 lbs.

The best practice would be to choose a bike rack that has a shank long enough to clear the spare tire. I've linked you to a help article that shows how to measure to find the clearance you need. Measure from the hitch pin hole in the receiver to the furthest rearward portion of the spare tire. The bike rack you choose will need to have a shank long enough to clear the spare tire. For instance, the Thule Hitching Post Pro, part # TH934XTR has a 13-1/2 inch shank.

If you'll be carrying women's bikes or bikes with sharply angled top tubes, it's a good idea to use a top tube adapter bar like part # 64005. The bar spans the distance between the seat post and the handlebar gooseneck, providing a level attachment point to the bike rack so the bike will have better ground clearance.

I'll link you to some product demonstration videos you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L