How to Determine Bike Rack Compatibility with a Rear Mount Spare Tire On a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Question:

my vehicle is a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4dr. Looking a tray, tire mount type of bike rack that will have clearance for the rear mount spare tire.

asked by: Bob S

Expert Reply:

You will need to measure to be sure the bike rack you select will work with the rear mounted spare tire on your Wrangler Unlimited. I like to take a 2x4, or other long straight item and place it against both sides of the spare tire. With the 2x4 held in place measure from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest side of the 2x4. As long as the bike racks measurement from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest part of the bike rack is longer than the measurement you get on the vehicle the bike rack will work.

The Yakima HoldUp 2 Bike Hitch Mounted Folding Rack w Wheel Mount Cradles, item # Y02443, is 12 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the first wheel tray. We have several other wheel mount bike racks and the measurement from the center of the hitch pin hole is stated on each items page (see link).

expert reply by: Robert G