Bike racks for Jeep Wranglers with a spare tire often use a hitch-mounted or strap-on design to clear the rear door. You don’t have to remove your spare just to carry bikes. Many racks now work around that big tire.
Finding the right rack can feel tricky. The spare tire blocks most standard trunk-mounted racks. But don’t worry. There are solid options that fit your Wrangler perfectly.
Bike Racks For Jeep Wranglers With Spare Tire
Your Jeep Wrangler is built for adventure. Adding a bike rack should be simple. The spare tire on the back changes everything. You need a rack that either mounts to the hitch or straps directly to the spare.
Hitch-mounted racks are the most popular choice. They slide into your receiver hitch and extend past the spare. Strap-on racks attach to the spare tire itself. Both work well, but each has pros and cons.
Let’s break down your options. We’ll cover fit, installation, and what to watch out for.
Why The Spare Tire Matters
The spare tire sits right where a trunk rack would go. Most standard racks clamp onto the trunk lid or bumper. On a Wrangler, that space is taken. The spare also adds weight and depth. A rack must clear it completely.
Some racks have extenders or offset arms. Others use the hitch to move the bikes further back. Always measure your spare tire’s diameter and offset. A 35-inch tire needs more clearance than a stock 32-inch one.
Hitch-Mounted Racks: The Top Choice
Hitch-mounted racks are the easiest solution. They slide into your 2-inch receiver hitch. The rack sits behind the spare tire. No contact with the tire or door.
Look for racks with a long shank or a tilting feature. A tilting rack lets you open the rear door even with bikes loaded. Some racks also fold up when not in use.
Popular brands include Thule, Yakima, and Kuat. These racks hold 2 to 5 bikes. They are sturdy and secure. You can also add a locking pin to prevent theft.
Installing A Hitch-Mounted Rack
Installation is straightforward. First, insert the rack into the receiver. Secure it with the hitch pin. Tighten any anti-rattle bolts. Then adjust the arms to fit your bikes.
Most racks have wheel trays or arms that hold the frame. Load the bikes from the back. Secure them with straps. Check that the bikes don’t touch the spare tire.
If your Wrangler has a rear camera, check the rack’s clearance. Some racks block the camera view. You may need a camera relocation kit.
Spare Tire-Mounted Racks
These racks attach directly to your spare tire. They use straps that wrap around the tire. The rack then holds the bikes above or beside the spare.
Spare tire racks are lighter and cheaper. They don’t need a hitch. But they have limits. The spare tire must be strong enough. Aftermarket bumpers with tire carriers work best. Stock carriers may flex under the weight.
Check the weight limit. Most spare tire racks hold 2 bikes max. The bikes can also block your rear view. And you may not be able to open the tailgate with bikes loaded.
Installing A Spare Tire Rack
First, remove the spare tire cover if you have one. Place the rack against the tire. Wrap the straps around the tire and through the rack’s brackets. Tighten evenly. Make sure the rack is centered.
Load the bikes onto the rack arms. Secure them with straps or bungee cords. Double-check that the bikes are stable. Drive slowly and avoid rough terrain.
Some racks have anti-sway straps. These prevent the bikes from hitting each other or the Jeep. Use them if included.
Key Features To Look For
Not all racks are equal. Here are features that matter for a Wrangler with a spare tire:
- Tilt or swing-away design for rear door access
- Long shank to clear the spare tire
- Anti-rattle mechanism to reduce wobble
- Locking system for bikes and rack
- Weight capacity matching your bikes
- Foldable arms for storage when not in use
Also consider the number of bikes. If you carry e-bikes, check the weight limit per bike. E-bikes are heavier than regular bikes.
Top Brands And Models
Here are some proven options for your Wrangler:
- Thule T2 Pro XT: Hitch-mounted, tilts, holds 2 bikes
- Yakima Dr.Tray: Hitch-mounted, no frame contact, holds 2 bikes
- Kuat NV 2.0: Hitch-mounted, integrated lock, holds 2 bikes
- Allen Sports Deluxe: Spare tire-mounted, affordable, holds 2 bikes
- Saris Bones: Spare tire-mounted, adjustable arms, holds 2 bikes
Each brand has different models for 4 or 5 bikes. Measure your hitch and spare tire before buying.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Don’t assume any rack fits. Check the manufacturer’s fit guide. Some racks need an adapter for 1.25-inch hitches. Others require a hitch extender.
Avoid overloading the rack. The spare tire carrier has a weight limit. Adding too many bikes can damage the carrier or door hinges.
Don’t forget to secure the bikes. Use locks and straps. A loose bike can swing into the spare tire or other vehicles.
Also, check local laws. Some states require a license plate light or flag for bikes that extend past the vehicle.
How To Measure For The Right Fit
Follow these steps to ensure your rack works:
- Measure the spare tire diameter (from top to bottom)
- Measure the tire width (sidewall to sidewall)
- Check the distance from the hitch receiver to the tire
- Measure the hitch receiver size (1.25 or 2 inches)
- Check the weight rating of your spare tire carrier
Write these numbers down. Compare them to the rack’s specifications. If the rack needs a longer shank, buy one separately.
Accessories You Might Need
Some accessories improve the rack’s performance:
- Hitch extender: Adds extra clearance behind the spare
- Anti-rattle clamp: Reduces noise and movement
- Locking hitch pin: Prevents rack theft
- Bike lock cables: Secure bikes to the rack
- License plate bracket: Relocates plate if blocked
- Camera relocation kit: Moves rear camera for visibility
These are cheap and easy to install. They make your setup safer and more convenient.
Pros And Cons Of Each Type
Let’s compare hitch-mounted vs spare tire-mounted racks:
Hitch-Mounted Racks
- Pros: More stable, higher weight capacity, tilts for door access
- Cons: Requires hitch, can be expensive, blocks rear camera
Spare Tire-Mounted Racks
- Pros: Cheaper, no hitch needed, lighter
- Cons: Lower weight limit, may block view, can damage stock carrier
Your choice depends on your budget and needs. If you carry heavy bikes or drive off-road, go hitch-mounted. For light use and occasional trips, spare tire racks work fine.
Installation Tips For A Secure Fit
Follow these tips to avoid problems:
- Tighten all bolts and straps before loading bikes
- Check the rack after driving a few miles
- Use a torque wrench for hitch bolts if specified
- Add rubber padding between rack and tire if needed
- Test the rear door opening with the rack tilted
If you hear rattling, add an anti-rattle device. If the rack wobbles, check the hitch pin fit.
Maintenance And Care
Keep your rack in good shape:
- Clean it after off-road trips to remove mud and salt
- Lubricate moving parts like tilt hinges
- Inspect straps for wear or fraying
- Store the rack indoors when not in use
- Replace worn parts promptly
A well-maintained rack lasts for years. Check bolts and straps before each trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a trunk-mounted rack on a Wrangler with a spare tire?
A: No. Trunk racks need a flat surface on the trunk lid. The spare tire blocks that area. Use a hitch or spare tire rack instead.
Q: Will a hitch rack work with a 35-inch spare tire?
A: Yes, if the rack has a long enough shank. Measure the distance from hitch to tire. Some racks need a 12-inch or longer shank.
Q: Can I open the tailgate with bikes on the rack?
A: Only if the rack tilts or swings away. Check the rack’s features. Many hitch racks tilt, but spare tire racks usually don’t.
Q: Do I need a hitch extender for my Wrangler?
A: Maybe. If the rack hits the spare tire, use an extender. But avoid long extenders as they reduce weight capacity.
Q: How many bikes can I carry on a spare tire rack?
A: Usually 2 bikes. The weight limit is lower than hitch racks. Check your spare tire carrier’s rating first.
Q: Are there racks that work with a rear camera?
A: Some racks have a cutout for the camera. Or you can buy a camera relocation kit. Check the rack’s design.
Final Thoughts On Choosing A Rack
Your Wrangler with a spare tire has unique needs. Hitch-mounted racks are the safest and most versatile. Spare tire racks are budget-friendly but have limits.
Measure your setup before buying. Consider how often you’ll use the rack. If you carry bikes weekly, invest in a quality hitch rack. For occasional use, a spare tire rack may be enough.
Always secure your bikes and check the rack before driving. With the right rack, you can take your bikes anywhere your Jeep goes.
Remember to check your local laws for bike rack requirements. Some areas require a flag or light for extended loads. Stay safe and enjoy the ride.
If you have a lifted Wrangler, measure the hitch height. Some racks have adjustable height. Others may need a drop hitch to level the rack.
Lastly, read reviews from other Wrangler owners. They often share tips for specific models. Forums and groups are great resources for real-world advice.
Now you’re ready to choose the best bike rack for your Jeep Wrangler with a spare tire. Happy trails and safe travels.