Hitch Mount Bike Rack Recommendation for a Jeep Wrangler with Oversized Tires

Updated 04/06/2020 | Published 08/22/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Apex Swing XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Swing Away

(228)

$699.95

Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(354)

$59.59

Question:

Hi folks - Ive got a 2006 Rubicon with larger than stock tires. I need 10 inches minimum maybe 11 to be totally safe from the center of the hitch pin hole to clear the spare tire. Can you recommend hitch racks that have a long enough arm to clear that tire? Picture attached if it helps. I really appreciate it!

asked by: Ben G

Expert Reply:

We have a few hitch mount bike rack options that will work for you. One of the most popular hitch mount bike racks among our Jeep Wrangler customers is the Thule Hitching Post Pro, # TH934XTR. This bike rack measures 13-1/2 inches to the back of the upright mast and about 9 inches to the lower post at the bottom of the mast. Looking at your picture, I don't think the lower post will interfere with your rear tire. I have attached a review video of this bike rack on a Jeep Wrangler for you to check out. This would be my top recommendation for you not only for it compatibility, but it is also a high quality bike rack with many great features at a great value.

Another option to consider is the Swagman XP Bike Rack, # S64940. This bike rack measures 12-1/2 inches to the mast and it has a single arm design that makes it easier to load different style bikes. The downside of this bike rack compared to the Thule Hitching Post Pro is that it does not come with a tilting mast or anti-sway cradles for the bikes.

Finally, if you would prefer a bike that will give you full access to the rear cargo area with the bike rack installed, check out the Thule Apex Swing Away Bike Rack, # TH9027XT. This bike rack measures 12 inches to the mast and has all of the same great features that the Hitching Post Pro offers but with a newer design. I have attached a review video of this bike rack on a Jeep Wrangler for you too.

If you plan to carry any womens, childrens or alternative frame bikes, then I would also recommend picking up a bike adapter bar like part # TH982XT. Bikes with small and angled frames can be difficult to load on a bike rack and cause ground clearance issues. This adapter will allow you to load your bikes easily and safely.

expert reply by: John H

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Jeff W.

4/4/2020

Will a Thule double track or double track pro work on my 2012 Jeep Wrangler? I do realize that I would not be able to fold it up when not in use because of spare tire clearance, but that’s OK with me as long as the mast and bikes clear the spare.Thanks

Chris R.

4/6/2020

Both the Thule DoubleTrack and DoubleTrack Pro have a distance of 6-5/8" from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest part of the rack (when folded down for use). I would take a quick measurement from the center of your Jeep's hitch pin hole to the outside edge of the spare. If this is less than 6-5/8" then you're good to go. If it's more than this though, you'll likely have some interference and you will want to go with a different option.