Could Thule Apex XT 4 Bike Rack with Hitch Extension Clear Tailgate of Jeep Wrangler JL

Updated 07/11/2023 | Published 07/08/2023

Question:

I have a 2021 Jeep wrangler JL … I was looking into the Thule Apex XT 4 hitch bike rack. I have a hitch extender. My question is will I be able to open my wrangler tailgate fully with only the rack on? I know the rack folds down but does it allow for a Jeep wrangler tailgate to open ? Or should I look at other bike rack options ?

asked by: Bob B

Expert Reply:

The Thule Apex XT 4 bike rack part # TH9025XT has a distance of 7-1/4 inches from the hitch pin to the back of the upright mast of the rack. Without knowing what your tailgate clearance requirement would be and how long your extension is you'd need to open your tailgate and measure distance from hitch pin to furthest point out on the tailgate when it's in the position that you'd need it to be in when open and compare that to the 7-1/4 inches of clearance I mentioned and the length of your extension.

expert reply by: Jameson C