Compatability of the Thule DoubleTrack 2 Bike Rack with a 2008 Toyota RAV4

Expert Reply:

The Thule DoubleTrack 2 Bike Hitch Mounted Folding Rack w Wheel Mount Cradles, 1-1/4 & 2 inch, item # TH990XT, has a measurement of 6 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest part of the bike rack, which is the wheel cradle, when folded.

You will need to measure from the center of your receiver hitch pin hole, to the farthest out part of your spare tire, to determine the fit of this hitch mounted bike rack. If your measurement is less than 6 inches then the # TH990XT bike rack will work with your rear mounted spare tire. We have a video for you to review (see link) that shows the # TH990XT installed and folded on a FJ with rear mounted spare tire.

There are extenders available (see link) to extend the bike rack out away from the vehicle but you will need to take into account that the tongue weight capacity of the lowest rated item, vehicle, hitch, bike rack or extender will be reduced by 50 percent. You will be limited to this weight including bikes, bike rack, extender and any items loaded behind the rear axle in the vehicle.

If you find this rack will not work for you may need to consider another style of bike rack with fold down arms to keep the bike rack from sticking out when bikes are not on the vehicle. The Thule Roadway 2 Bike Hitch Mounted Folding Rack w Frame Mount Cradles for 1-1/4 & 2 inch, item # TH912, would be a good choice in this situation.

expert reply by: Bob G