Will Swagman XTC4 Wheel Mount Bike Carrier work on a 2009 Toyota Rav4

Question:

Hi, Does this rack have enough clearance for the spare tire of a 2009 Toyota Rav4 base 4x4? Also what type of trailer hitch would I need? I have been reading on the web but some of the stuff is hard to understand and Ive never dealt with either of these before. Thank you!

asked by: Molly

Expert Reply:

In order to use the Swagman XTC4 Bike Rack, you will need a 2 inch reciver hitch on your 2009 Toyota Rav4. We have 4 different 2 inch hitches available for your Rav4. The most popular is the Curt part # C13149.

The only way to determine whether or not you will have enough clearance for the spare tire is to take a measurement from the hitch, which you could not do at this point since you do not have a hitch yet. I do not believe it will be a problem though. This rack does come out quite a bit and should provide enough clearance that the bikes will not interfere with the spare tire.

The way to measure is from the center of the hitch pin hole strait out. Use a yard stick or dowel rod laid against the spare tire. Measure from the hitch pin hole out the the dowel rod and this is your minimum clearance. If this measurement is less than 12-3/4 inches, then you can use the rack. If this measurement is 3 inches or greater, you will not be able to fold the rack up a full 90 degrees for storage when the bike rack is empty.

I have included a link to a video of this bike rack being reviewed so you can see how it works, a link to the hitch recommended, and video of this hitch being installed. I have also included a link to a FAQ that shows how to choose a bike rack that will clear your spare tire for your reference.

expert reply by: Patrick B