Will the Thule 4 Bike Rack Fit a 2018 Jeep JL Wrangler Unlimited

Updated 10/21/2018 | Published 10/20/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(219)

$499.95

Thule Tram Ski and Snowboard Carrier Adapter for Hitch Bike Racks - 6 Pairs of Skis or 4 Boards

(32)

$449.95

Question:

Hi, I already have the Thule 9029Xt and I’m wondering if the Thule 9033 Ski/Snowboard rack will fit on it? I drive a 2018 JL Rubicon Unlimited that doesn’t have any towing package, so I would need a towing hitch as well. Thanks!

asked by: Nanie

Expert Reply:

Yes, the Thule Tram Ski and Snowboard Carrier Adapter part # TH9033 will work with the Thule Apex 4 Bike Rack part # TH9025XT. However, the issue you are going to run into when using the Bike Rack on your 2018 Jeep JL Wrangler Unlimited is the rear spare tire.

In order to be sure the bike rack will clear the rear spare tire you will need to measure from the outside of the bumper beam to the outer edge of the spare tire on your Jeep (see photo). You will then need to subtract the length of the receiver tube on the trailer hitch which for the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 76104 is about 4-1/2". The bike rack will require a distance from the center of the hitch pin holes to the outer edge of the spare tire to be no more than 9-1/4". The Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # DT78MR is the longest one we offer for this vehicle and will be your best chance.

If this will not work for you then you have a few options which are to remove the spare tire, get a different bike rack, or install the skis/snowboards on the roof. Please let me know how you would like to proceed and I will offer additional parts to help you accomplish your goal if the hitch is not viable.

expert reply by: Conner L