Does the Thule DoubleTrack Pro XT Need a Hitch Extender for a 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

Updated 06/30/2021 | Published 06/29/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(167)

$899.95

Trailer Hitch Extender for 2" Hitch Receivers - 8" Long

(292)

$52.71

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

(597)

$151.71

Hollywood Racks Trail Rider Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(473)

$299.99

Question:

Does the Thule DoubleTrack Pro XT bike rack need a hitch extension for 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4XE? Nice to know up front.

asked by: Joseph V

Expert Reply:

The question of whether you need a hitch extension to use the Thule DoubleTrack Pro XT # TH83JV depends on what hitch you have installed on your 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4XE as well as the width of your spare tire. If you have a hitch like the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e98856, the length from the center of the hitch pinhole to the end of the spare tire will be about 8 inches. With that length, you will need a hitch adapter like the Trailer Hitch Extender for 2" Hitch Receivers - 8" Long # e88YR because the closest part of the DoubleTrack Pro XT from the center of the hitch pinhole is 7 inches.

If you want a great alternative that has a longer shank that will fit your 2-inch hitch on your 2021 Jeep Wrangler, I recommend the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider Bike Rack - 1-1/4"/2" Hitches - Frame Mount # HR200Z. The length of the center of the pinhole to the closest part of the Trail Rider is 12-1/8 inches, which will give you plenty of clearance of your spare tire. As far as bike compatibility, the # HR200Z fits bikes with wheelbases up to 60" long and tires that measure up to 3" wide.