Bike Rack for Two 60 lb E-bikes for 2009 Toyota Rav4

Published 09/03/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Access Ramp for Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack

(132)

$129.00

Kuat NV 2.0 Base Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Matte Black

(399)

$898.00

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(1513)

$179.03

Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(515)

$1099.95

Question:

What are your recommendations for two electric bikes based on the fact that the 2009 RAV4 has a tire on the back? That was my primary concern.

asked by: Steve J

Helpful Expert Reply:

I have two great options for you. The first is the Swagman E-Spec Electric Bike Rack # S94FR. It's super heavy-duty and has a weight capacity of 70lbs per bike. If you fold down the arm and take your bikes off, there is enough clearance to access and open the hatch of your Rav4. This rack is amazing for rugged, heavy duty riding. This rack just makes me feel secure that my heavy E-bikes are held up well. I attached a video below so you can see it in action on a 2020 Toyota Rav4.

The second option is the Yakima OnRamp E-Bike Platform Rack # Y36FR. One word: Ramps! It has a weight capacity of 66 lbs per bike, and I really enjoy how the sliding trays and the rotating cradles help accommodate different types of bike and frames. This rack also tilts forward so you can access your hatch without taking your bike off. I also attached a video review of this rack.

If I had to choose between the two, I prefer the Yakima OnRamp # Y36FR mainly because of the ramp and tilting design. I appreciate how the Swagman E-Spec has a higher weight capacity, but I like the idea of rolling my heavy E-bike onto my bike rack.

If you don't already have a hitch to mount these racks into, I recommend the etrailer Class III Custom Fit Hitch # e98864. Since you're carrying heavy E-Bikes, a 2-inch Class III hitch is ideal. This etrailer hitch is also rated as "Best for Bike Racks and Carriers" and "Highest Capacity." I attached a video of the install process on a 2010 Toyota Rav4.

expert reply by: Evangeline M

Steve J.

9/3/2020

What are your recommendations for two electric bikes based on the fact that the 2009 RAV4 has a tire on the back? That was my primary concern.

Evangeline M.

9/3/2020

My best recommendation for a platform bike rack that has spare tire clearance and the weight capacity for TWO 60 lb E-bikes, is the Thule EasyFold XT 2 E-Bike Platform Rack # TH903202. It has a ramp for ease of loading up E-bikes. The shank is far out enough that you can take advantage of its EasyFold system even with a spare tire. Another option is the Kuat NV 2.0 Base # BA22B that will work with the bikes loaded, although it can't fold up with the spare tire. It has a wheel mount which I prefer on my bike racks for ease of mounting. You can also pick up the Access Ramp for Kuat NV # ANVBRB. When choosing a bike rack that will clear your spare tire, it is important to know the distance between your hitch pin hole and the closest edge of the rack. If your bumper extends past your hitch, that cuts down the usable length as well. Some get hitch extender, but I do NOT recommend it since an extender will cut your hitch's weight capacity in half which you want to avoid if you're carrying heavy bikes.