When you carry a spare tire on your Jeep’s tailgate, finding a bike rack that fits properly requires careful attention to mounting design. The market for bike racks for jeeps with spare tires has grown significantly, but not every rack works with every spare tire setup. You need a rack that clears the tire, attaches securely, and doesn’t block your license plate or taillights.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know. We cover mounting types, compatibility issues, installation steps, and top recommendations. Let’s get your bikes on the trail without the headache.
Bike Racks For Jeeps With Spare Tires
Spare tire mounted bike racks are designed specifically for Jeeps and other SUVs that carry a spare on the back. They attach directly to the spare tire itself or to the tailgate hinge system. This design keeps your bikes off the bumper and away from exhaust heat.
Most racks in this category use straps or clamps that grip the spare tire’s tread and sidewall. Others bolt to the tailgate’s reinforced hinges for extra stability. The choice depends on your spare tire size, your Jeep model, and how many bikes you need to carry.
Why Standard Trunk Racks Dont Work
Standard trunk-mounted bike racks rely on hooks that grab the top and bottom of a car’s trunk lid. On a Jeep with a spare tire, those hooks have nothing to grab. The spare tire blocks access to the tailgate’s surface. Even if you could attach hooks, the weight of the bikes would pull on the spare tire mount, causing wobble or damage.
Hitch-mounted racks are an option, but they require a trailer hitch receiver. Many Jeep owners prefer to avoid adding a hitch just for bikes. Spare tire racks offer a cleaner, more direct solution.
Types Of Spare Tire Bike Racks
There are three main types of bike racks that work with Jeeps that have spare tires. Each has pros and cons depending on your setup.
Strap-On Spare Tire Racks
These racks use adjustable straps that wrap around the spare tire. They typically have a central arm that holds the bike’s top tube. The straps tighten against the tire’s tread and sidewall. This design is simple and affordable. It works best with standard size spare tires (up to 33 inches). Larger tires may require extender straps.
Strap-on racks are easy to install and remove. They don’t require tools. However, they can shift if not tightened properly. They also put pressure on the spare tire’s sidewall, which can cause wear over time.
Hinge-Mounted Spare Tire Racks
These racks attach to the tailgate’s hinge bolts or to a reinforced bracket that replaces the factory spare tire mount. They are more stable than strap-on racks. They can carry heavier loads, including multiple bikes or e-bikes. Installation requires basic tools and some mechanical skill.
Hinge-mounted racks are ideal for larger spare tires (35 inches and up). They don’t put stress on the tire itself. They also allow you to tilt the rack away from the tailgate for access to the cargo area.
Hybrid Racks
Some racks combine strap-on and hinge-mounted features. They use straps for quick attachment but also have a secondary bracket that bolts to the tailgate for added stability. These are a good middle ground if you want easy removal but better security than a pure strap-on design.
Compatibility Checklist
Before buying any bike rack, check these factors against your Jeep’s setup.
- Spare tire diameter: Measure the actual tire diameter, not the rim size. Most racks work with tires up to 33 inches. Larger tires need special models.
- Spare tire width: Wider tires (like 12.5 inches) may interfere with the rack’s arms or straps. Check the rack’s maximum tire width.
- Tailgate clearance: Some racks extend backward, which can hit the ground on steep driveways or off-road obstacles. Measure the distance from the tire’s face to the ground.
- License plate and lights: The rack may block your license plate or taillights. Many states require a license plate relocation kit or an auxiliary light bar.
- Number of bikes: Most spare tire racks carry 1 to 3 bikes. Check the weight capacity per bike and total.
- Bike frame style: Step-through frames, fat tire bikes, and carbon frames may need special adapters or trays.
Installation Guide For Spare Tire Racks
Installing a spare tire bike rack is straightforward if you follow these steps. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions first, as details vary by model.
Tools You May Need
- Socket wrench set (metric and standard)
- Torque wrench (for hinge-mounted racks)
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Marker or pencil
Step-By-Step Installation For Strap-On Racks
- Position the rack: Hold the rack against the spare tire at the desired height. Most racks work best centered on the tire.
- Attach the top straps: Loop the top straps over the top of the tire and hook them to the rack’s frame. Tighten them snugly but not fully.
- Attach the side straps: Wrap the side straps around the tire’s sidewalls and connect them to the rack. Ensure the rack is level.
- Tighten all straps: Alternate between straps to pull the rack evenly against the tire. The rack should not move when you push on it.
- Test fit a bike: Place a bike on the rack and check for stability. Adjust the rack height if the bike’s pedals or handlebars hit the spare tire.
Step-By-Step Installation For Hinge-Mounted Racks
- Remove the spare tire: Use a socket wrench to remove the lug nuts or bolts holding the spare tire. Set the tire aside.
- Attach the mounting bracket: Bolt the rack’s bracket to the tailgate hinge points. Use a torque wrench to tighten to the manufacturer’s specification.
- Reinstall the spare tire: Put the spare tire back on over the bracket. Tighten the lug nuts securely.
- Attach the rack arm: Slide the rack’s arm into the bracket and secure it with the provided pin or bolt.
- Adjust the tilt: Most hinge-mounted racks have a tilt mechanism. Adjust it so the rack clears the tailgate when opened.
- Test the swing: Open the tailgate with the rack installed. It should swing freely without hitting the bumper or body.
Common Installation Mistakes
- Over-tightening straps on a strap-on rack can damage the spare tire’s sidewall.
- Not checking clearance before driving. The rack or bikes may hit the rear window or roof.
- Forgetting to relocate the license plate. This can result in a traffic ticket.
- Using a rack that is too heavy for the tailgate hinges. Check your Jeep’s weight limit.
Top Features To Look For
Not all spare tire bike racks are created equal. Here are the features that matter most for Jeep owners.
Weight Capacity
Check the rack’s maximum weight per bike and total load. Most racks hold 35 to 50 pounds per bike. If you carry heavy mountain bikes or e-bikes, look for a rack rated for 60 pounds or more. Hinge-mounted racks typically have higher weight limits than strap-on models.
Tilt Or Swing Access
A tilt feature allows you to lower the rack away from the tailgate so you can open it. A swing feature moves the entire rack to the side. Both are useful for accessing your cargo area without removing the bikes. Swing-away racks are more common on hinge-mounted designs.
Anti-Wobble Design
Wobble is a common problem with strap-on racks. Look for racks with anti-wobble pads or locking mechanisms. Hinge-mounted racks are naturally more stable. Some models include rubber bushings that absorb vibration.
Security Features
Integrated locks are a plus. Some racks have a lock that secures the rack to the spare tire. Others have cable locks for the bikes. If you park in public areas, consider a rack with a hitch lock or a locking pin.
Foldability
When not in use, a foldable rack takes up less space. Many strap-on racks fold flat against the spare tire. Hinge-mounted racks often have a folding arm that reduces the rack’s profile.
Best Bike Racks For Jeeps With Spare Tires
Here are some top-rated models that work well with Jeeps that have spare tires. Prices and availability vary, so check current listings.
Thule Spare Me
The Thule Spare Me is a strap-on rack that fits tires up to 33 inches. It carries two bikes with a total weight limit of 70 pounds. The rack has a tilt feature for tailgate access. It includes a lock that secures the rack to the tire. The straps are durable and resist UV damage.
Some users report that the rack wobbles on larger tires. Adding a secondary strap or a rubber pad can reduce movement. Overall, it is a solid choice for standard Jeep Wranglers.
Yakima SpareRide
Yakima’s SpareRide is another strap-on option. It fits tires from 29 to 33 inches. It carries one bike with a weight limit of 40 pounds. The rack has a single arm that holds the bike’s top tube. It folds flat when not in use.
The SpareRide is simple and lightweight. It works best for occasional use. The single bike capacity may be limiting for families. Yakima also sells an add-on for a second bike.
Kuat Transfer V2
The Kuat Transfer V2 is a hinge-mounted rack that fits tires up to 35 inches. It carries two bikes with a total weight of 120 pounds. The rack has a tool-free tilt feature. It includes a built-in cable lock and a bottle opener.
This rack is more expensive but offers excellent stability. It works well with larger tires and heavier bikes. Installation requires removing the spare tire and bolting the bracket to the tailgate.
Allen Sports Deluxe Spare Tire Rack
Allen Sports offers an affordable strap-on rack that fits tires up to 33 inches. It carries two bikes with a total weight of 70 pounds. The rack has padded arms to protect bike frames. It folds flat for storage.
This rack is budget-friendly but lacks a tilt feature. The straps can loosen over time, so check them before each trip. It is a good entry-level option for light use.
RockyMounts BackStage
The RockyMounts BackStage is a premium hinge-mounted rack that fits tires up to 37 inches. It carries two bikes with a total weight of 100 pounds. The rack swings away from the tailgate for full access. It has a locking mechanism and a built-in work stand.
This rack is designed for serious off-roaders. It is compatible with most Jeep models, including the Gladiator. The price is high, but the build quality is exceptional.
Tips For Using A Spare Tire Bike Rack
Once you have your rack installed, follow these tips to keep your bikes safe and your driving smooth.
Check Clearance Before Driving
After mounting the bikes, walk around the Jeep and check for clearance. Make sure the bikes do not hit the rear window, roof, or bumper. Also check that the license plate and taillights are visible. If not, install a relocation kit.
Distribute Weight Evenly
If you carry two bikes, place the heavier one closer to the spare tire. This reduces leverage and strain on the rack. For three bikes, center the heaviest bike in the middle.
Secure The Bikes Properly
Use the rack’s straps or cradles to hold the bike’s frame. Do not overtighten, as this can damage carbon frames. If your bike has a step-through frame, use a frame adapter or a top tube extender.
Monitor The Rack During Trips
Stop after the first few miles and check the rack’s tightness. Straps can stretch or loosen as the rack settles. Re-tighten if needed. On rough roads, check more frequently.
Remove The Rack When Not In Use
Leaving the rack on the spare tire all the time can cause wear to the tire and the tailgate hinges. It also adds weight and wind resistance. Remove the rack when you don’t need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a spare tire bike rack work with a 35-inch tire?
Yes, but you need a rack designed for larger tires. Most standard racks max out at 33 inches. Look for models like the Kuat Transfer V2 or RockyMounts BackStage that handle up to 35 or 37 inches.
Can I use a spare tire rack with a carbon fiber bike frame?
Yes, but use caution. Strap-on racks can put pressure on the top tube. Use a frame protector pad or a top tube adapter. Hinge-mounted racks with tray-style carriers are safer for carbon frames.
Do I need to relocate my license plate when using a spare tire rack?
In most states, yes. If the rack blocks your license plate or taillights, you need a relocation kit. Many racks come with a plate mount, or you can buy an aftermarket kit.
How many bikes can a spare tire rack carry?
Most racks carry 1 to 3 bikes. Strap-on racks typically hold 2 bikes. Hinge-mounted racks can hold 2 or 3, depending on the model. Check the weight capacity before loading.
Can I open my tailgate with a spare tire rack installed?
It depends on the rack. Some strap-on racks allow the tailgate to open partially. Hinge-mounted racks often have a tilt or swing feature that gives full access. Check the product specs before buying.
Final Thoughts On Bike Racks For Jeeps With Spare Tires
Choosing the right bike rack for your Jeep with a spare tire comes down to your tire size, your budget, and how often you carry bikes. Strap-on racks are affordable and easy to use, but they may wobble on larger tires. Hinge-mounted racks offer better stability and higher weight capacity, but they cost more and require installation.
Measure your spare tire carefully before buying. Check the rack’s weight limit and compatibility with your bike frames. Always test the fit before hitting the road. With the right rack, you can take your bikes anywhere your Jeep goes.
Remember to secure your bikes properly and check the rack periodically during trips. A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing accidents. Happy trails and safe riding.