Can I Use The Yakima EXO With A Hitch Extension On A 2023 Ford Bronco With Spare Tire On The Back?

Question:

I HAVE OF 2023 FOR BRONCHO WITH A TIRE IN THE BACK. I want to use the Yakima Exo system for bike and storage. The tire sticks out 12 in from the hitch on the back. Would you recommend for a hitch extender? . 18 in extended seems to long

asked by: David W

Expert Reply:

Hello David, great question. You cannot use an 18" hitch extension with the Yakima EXO System # Y82VR. The EXO can only be used with the Yakima StraightShot 2" hitch extender # Y69VR. This extension is 7-1/4" long, and will not clear your spare tire. The EXO system cannot be used with any other hitch extension, so I do not recommend that you use this on your 2023 Bronco unless you remove the spare tire.

One option is to use a cargo carrier like the 24x60 etrailer Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches # e98874. You could use that with the 13-13/16" Long Hitch Extender # e28YR to clear the spare tire. It is important to note that when using a hitch extender, the tongue weight capacity of your hitch will be cut in half. So for example, if the hitch on your bronco is rated for 350 lbs of tongue weight, you will only be able to carry 175 lbs. When you factor in the weight of the extension (18 lbs) and the weight of the cargo carrier (48 lbs) you will only be able to carry around 100 lbs in the carrier. I generally do not recommend using a hitch extension unless you have no other choice.

expert reply by: Jesse M