I haven't purchased one yet but the Thule 962 PRO (Spare Me) came highly recommended by friends that have them.

 

I've been using the Thule "Spare Me" for a couple of years now and it seems to work pretty well for one full suspension MTB. I have been able to get two bikes on it but if were typically needing to haul 2 bikes I would probably go with a hitch mount.

It barely fit with my BFG 285/70/17 spare. I just put on Hankook 295 MT's but haven't tried it yet. I'm guessing its not going to fit.

 

Surco BT300 Spare Tire Mount Bike Rack, Up To 3 Bike Capacity : Amazon.com : Automotive

 

I have the 2 bike Yakima. I fit 2 29ers rockhoppers (big frames) on it, but I take the front wheels off. Then I turn the hand bars of both bikes and wrap a single bungee around both forks to keep the handle bars turned. It only takes a minute to pop it on and off.

I'm sure the others are strong, but I've hauled my bikes on many 1000+ mile interstate trips and it still feels sturdy and looks like new.

I would recommend you haul no more than 2 bikes. I think if I put a 3rd bike on my spare tire that the weight would cause major issues for the door. I've noticed that I'm starting to get some small bulges on each side of the tire.


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Ditto. I do the exact same thing. I think that's the only way to get the 29ers to fit.


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Well, I picked up a Thule 963XTR and it barely - just barely - fits. :mecry:

I have a stock spare (265/75/16 BFG AT) and the square part of the mounting plate just about touches the "receiver" part of the rack - and that's without the rubber feet that are supposed to go on the frame (where it touches the tire). I had to really crank down on the knob to force the square parts into each other.

This was purchased for my kids' bikes - mostly one but maybe two, and local driving. Even so, I'd feel better if there was more metal-on-metal contact. The fittment guide clearly states that this model fits an FJ, but maybe this will go on the wife's Rav and I'll try again...

 

I have a Yakima bike carrier. I didn't get the Thule one because I read they only fit with a stock size spare (265). If you plan on getting bigger tires... I would return the Thule.


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