How Much Clearance Between Hitch Bumper and Bike Rack is Safe

Updated 03/18/2021 | Published 03/15/2021

Question:

My hitch hole is 4.2” inset from the bumper. For hitch platform rack, what is the closest distance between hitch pin hole and folded up rack so that when driving with folded up rack, the rack does not risk touching the bumper? E.g., is a hitch pin hole - folded up rack of 5.2” safe leaving 1” between folded up rack and bumper.

asked by: Christian

Expert Reply:

I'd say an inch would be a good safe amount of clearance if the bike rack is one of the more stable options out there, but if it's a rack that has a bit more movement to it the safer measurement might be more like 1-1/2 inch to 2 inch. Typically up and down, or in and out, movement is not what you see with the racks though. It's more a side to side movement.

expert reply by: Jameson C