As a Jeep Wrangler owner and outdoor enthusiast, combining my love for off-roading with cycling has always been a priority. For years, a spare tire-mounted bike rack seemed like a convenient option. Like many Jeep owners, I initially opted for a spare tire rack, specifically the Thule Spare Me 2, for my Wrangler JK Rubicon Unlimited. It worked reasonably well when I was riding solo and only needed to transport one mountain bike. However, things changed when my partner also got into mountain biking. Suddenly, the limitations of my old setup became glaringly obvious. Carrying two bikes, especially with modern full-suspension frames, felt precarious and cumbersome on the spare tire mount. The added weight on the tailgate also raised concerns about long-term durability and off-road stability. This prompted a quest to find a more robust and user-friendly bike rack solution for my Jeep Wrangler.
My research process revealed a surprising lack of comprehensive information tailored to Jeep Wrangler owners seeking optimal bike rack solutions. Many generic guides didn’t address the unique challenges posed by the Wrangler’s spare tire and tailgate access requirements. This gap in information inspired me to share my own journey and findings, hoping to help fellow Jeep and bike enthusiasts navigate this often-confusing landscape. After considerable research and some hands-on experimentation, I’ve arrived at a bike rack system that perfectly suits my needs and, I believe, could be an excellent solution for many Jeep Wrangler owners.
When evaluating different bike rack options, I established a clear set of criteria to ensure the chosen rack would meet my specific needs and Jeep lifestyle:
- Two-Bike Capacity: The rack absolutely needed to carry two adult-sized mountain bikes comfortably and securely.
- Frame-Friendly Mounting: I wanted to avoid racks that clamp onto the bike’s top tube, as these can be problematic for full-suspension bikes and potentially damage delicate frames. Wheel mount or platform-style racks were preferred.
- Hitch-Mounted Robustness: Hitch-mounted racks seemed inherently more stable and heavy-duty compared to other types, and importantly, they distribute weight to the vehicle’s frame rather than the tailgate.
- Foldable Design: A rack that could fold up compactly when not in use was crucial for minimizing protrusion and maintaining maneuverability, especially in parking situations or on trails.
- Ground Clearance Considerations: While accepting some reduction in ground clearance is inevitable with a hitch rack, I aimed to minimize it. Avoiding a large drop hitch was important to preserve the Jeep’s off-road capabilities for mild backcountry adventures.
- Unobstructed Tailgate Access: This was the most critical and challenging requirement. I needed to be able to fully open the Jeep’s tailgate without removing the bike rack to easily access my gear and accessories, including my refrigerator.
Considering these factors, the Thule T2 Classic 2-Bike Hitch Rack emerged as the most promising option. While this post isn’t intended as an in-depth review of the Thule T2 Classic (as numerous reviews are readily available online), it’s worth noting its reputation as a well-established, durable, and reliable rack that has consistently satisfied users for years. Its robust construction and user-friendly design made it a strong contender.
Thule T2 Bike Rack Mounted on Jeep Wrangler Spare Tire
I did consider the newer Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Hitch Rack, which offers some appealing upgrades. However, the Pro XT model sits even higher than the Classic. This increased height would likely necessitate a significant drop hitch to clear the Jeep’s spare tire and allow tailgate access. Using a large drop hitch would compromise ground clearance and potentially hinder the Jeep’s off-road performance, which I wanted to avoid. Therefore, the Thule T2 Classic seemed like a better fit for maintaining a balance between bike-carrying capability and Jeep functionality.
After assembling the Thule T2 Classic, I conducted a test fit on my Jeep Wrangler to determine the necessary hitch extension or drop to achieve full tailgate clearance. I discovered that complete tailgate opening was possible by using either a 12-inch hitch extension or a combination of a 6-inch extension with a 2-inch drop hitch. I opted for the drop hitch extension. The 12-inch extension caused the rack to protrude excessively far from the spare tire, which I found less aesthetically pleasing and potentially more vulnerable in off-road situations. The shorter extension with a slight drop kept the rack tucked in closer to the vehicle, minimizing its overall footprint.
To ensure a secure and functional bike rack setup on my Jeep Wrangler, I utilized the following additional accessories:
Here’s a comprehensive view of the complete bike rack system installed on my Jeep Wrangler, showcasing its integration with the vehicle.
A closer inspection of the bike rack assembly, highlighting the key components and attachment points for secure bike transport.
Close-up of Thule T2 Classic Bike Rack on Jeep Wrangler Hitch
Having used this bike rack setup extensively throughout the past year, I can confidently say it has exceeded my expectations. It fulfills all my initial criteria, allowing me to transport two bikes easily while preserving the Jeep Wrangler’s versatility and functionality. The ease of installation and use has been a significant bonus, encouraging my partner and me to ride our bikes more frequently. If you’re a Jeep Wrangler owner seeking a reliable and tailgate-compatible bike rack solution, the Thule T2 Classic with a drop hitch extension is definitely worth considering. Feel free to share any questions you may have in the comments below!
