Yakima HoldUp Tailgate Clearance on 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee with Two Mountain Bikes

Updated 03/29/2026 | Published 03/23/2026

Question:

I have two mountain bikes. Will the rack rotate down enough to open the tailgate on a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

Hi John, that’s a great question and I completely understand wanting to make sure you’re not stuck unloading bikes every time you need to get into the back. We’ve tested the Yakima HoldUp part # Y02443 on a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which is the same generation as your 2023, and you can tilt the rack down far enough to open the rear hatch with bikes loaded. I have attached a photo for your reference.

What trails are you riding those two MTBs on with the Jeep? What brand are they?

expert reply by: Heather A

test
(click to enlarge)

John

3/26/2026

Hi Heather, I’m sorry, but the vehicle pictured is not mine. I should have mentioned that my 2023 is a 4xe which is the new (current) body style. Do you have information on a 2025 or 2026 Grand Cherokee? I have a couple Gary Fisher bikes and use them on several trails in the Chicago area. Raceway Woods can be fun. John

Heather A.

3/27/2026

@John Hi John, no worries at all and I’m really glad you clarified that, the 4xe being the newer body style does make a difference. We haven’t had a chance to physically test the Yakima HoldUp on the current generation Grand Cherokee yet, so I don’t want to promise full hatch clearance with bikes loaded. That said, we can still get you a very good idea using a quick measurement so you’re not guessing. If you measure from the center of the hitch pin hole straight back to the outermost point of your bumper or where the hatch starts to open, that gives you your baseline. The HoldUp sits about 12 inches out from that pin hole at its closest point, and when you tilt it down, it moves even farther away from the vehicle, which adds a few more inches of clearance. If your measurement is greater than that, you’re likely in a good spot, especially with the tilt helping out. If it ends up being close or you want guaranteed access without unloading, you do have options like a swing away adapter that lets the whole rack move out of the way. Both will give you more clearance, they just add a bit more length behind the Jeep. Let me know how the measuring goes! I'm still around.

Randy

3/27/2026

The bigger concern would be the width of the tires fitting in the mounts. I use it with an Electra (not electric) Townie and it is barely wide enough. Other than that we Hava a CRV and it works great. Good luck. Trailer has been a great company to work with.

Heather A.

3/27/2026

@Randy Yes, the rack allows for up to 3" wide tires. Tire width is one of those things that can sneak up on people, and it sounds like you’re right at that limit with the Townie. I’m glad to hear it’s been working well for you overall though, especially on the CR-V. Do you like the Electras? I have been looking at those for myself.

Randy

3/29/2026

@HeatherA I love it. I thought it was a little expensive but it is worth every penny. Fun easy bike to ride.