Carrying An Electra Townie With Fenders On 2018 Jeep Wrangler

Updated 07/02/2021 | Published 06/30/2021

Question:

I have a 2018 Jeep Wrangler and just had a 2 inch hitch installed. What is the best bike rack to use with locks both for the bike rack and bike? I will be transporting two Electra Townies. I’m 5’3” so keep that in mind please. Thanks.

asked by: Hilary M

Helpful Expert Reply:

My solution for you will be a platform hitch bike rack. One of the nice features of the platform rack is you will not have to lift the bike very high to load bicycles on your rack. However, there will be one obstacle that must be addressed, the clearance between your 2018 Jeep Wrangler's spare tire and the hitch bike rack. Most hitch bike racks do not have a long enough shank when in the fold up position on your vehicle. As a result, we need to add an hitch receiver adapter that allows you to extend the length of your hitch receiver when you carry a bike.

I recommend the Brophy Hitch Extender For 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver, part # HE06, to be used in conjunction with the Inno Tire Hold 2 Bike Platform Rack - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting, part # INH120. The hitch extender adds 7" to your existing hitch receiver, that when combined with the length of the shank of the rack gives you 13 1/2" of clearance. That gives plenty of room to clear your spare tire. Adding the hitch extender does reduce your maximum tongue weight by 50%, but that should not be an issue carrying an Electra Townie. The Inno Tire Hold 2 secures your bike by holding the tire, so your fender will not interfere with the clamping mechanism as it can on other bike racks. This rack allows for tool free installation, if you turn the knob you tighten the rack in the hitch receiver and eliminate any movement between the rack and your hitch receiver. The bikes can be locked to your rack and you can lock the rack to your vehicle.

I have included product description links and video review links below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith