I'm looking for examples of racks can be mounted on the rear hitch rather than roof rack. Prefer 2 bike minimum.

Have any of you installed a hitch mounted rack and cleared the spare tire? 1up, Kuat, Thule?

Thanks

 

I can't find the photo, but someone moved their spare tire to the roof rack and used that newer Thule hitch rack where the bike tires sit in a tray.

I have an older Yakima hitch rack that doesn't work that well with the newer angled bike top tubes. So I use Thule roof mounted bike racks on my LR4 and bring along a 3 foot aluminum step ladder to reach them. Just be aware of any overpasses that have less than 10' clearance, like those on the Merritt Parkway in CT.

 

This might work nicely, if you don't mind it not being hitch mounted


https://www.bloomfieldbike.com/produ...me-68324-1.htm

 

I ordered the extension from 1up and plan to use my trays in the back. I think the Defender is way too tall to even think about putting bikes on the roof. I can imagine dropping a bike or two on the roof at some point not to mention hitting just about anything sooner or later. Maybe if the roof was four inches lower, but it’s kind of a crazy height to be lifting bikes.

 

Thanks guys - looking to keep it on a hitch mount. I agree not wanting to roof mount MTB or road bikes. I’m clumsy enough on the trails and road. I think the 1up extension may be the way to go. Also found hitch extenders that could work. Just wanted some expert advice if you all have done this already too!

 

I’d stick with the extension from 1up since it has the anti rattle bracket and lock. Standard extensions from etrailer etc will wobble and rattle.

 

will it clear the rear mounted tire?

 

It should according to my measurements but I won’t know for sure until it arrives.

 

awesome. Let us know when you get it! Thx!