Hitch Extender Recommendation to Clear Jeep Spare Tire

Published 04/01/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Apex Swing XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Swing Away

(221)

$699.95

RockyMounts Hitch Extender w/ Hitch Pin and Lock - 2" Hitches - 8" Long

(149)

$52.37

Question:

We have a jeep Wrangler and the Rack doesn’t fit with the spare tire, is there like an extension we can buy?

asked by: Patricia A

Expert Reply:

Thule usually says to avoid using an extender with their bike racks but if you choose to do so to fit the Thule Apex Swing XT # TH9027XT with your spare tire then I recommend using one that has an anti-rattle device to keep everything secured really well. It's also worth noting that typically when you add an extender the catch is that you're reducing the weight rating of your hitch by 50%.

I recommend checking out the RockyMounts Hitch Extender w/ Hitch Pin and Lock # RKY10008 because it comes with both an anti-rattle device plus a lock. It's worth noting RockyMounts says to only load up 3 bikes with this extender since that 4th bike will be sitting out that much further.

expert reply by: Jon G