Key Highlights: 

1. Product Overview:

  • The Hornet Outdoors Truck Receiver Hitch Spare Tire Mount is designed for all 2-inch receivers and is made of high-quality American steel. It is built to withstand rugged off-road conditions and is adjustable to fit various vehicle heights and sizes.

2. Design and Construction:

  • The mount boasts robust construction with durable materials, offering a stable platform for spare tires. However, it is tailored specifically for vehicles with 2-inch receivers.

3. Usability Issues:

  • Daily use of the mount can be cumbersome due to a complex swing arm access that involves removing a bolt that could be easily lost. Additionally, the mount cannot be locked in the open position, which poses a safety hazard on uneven terrains.

4. Legal and Safety Concerns:

  • The product lacks a license plate relocation kit and integrated license plate lighting, which can lead to non-compliance with street legality and potential legal risks, especially in low-light conditions.

5. Installation and Compatibility:

  • Installation is straightforward: insert the mount into the receiver hitch, secure it with a hitch pin, attach the tire, and adjust the stabilizer. However, some vehicle models might require additional parts like longer bolts for complete installation.

6. Customer Service Feedback:

  • The customer service provided by Hornet Outdoors has been reported as lacking, with issues in follow-through and responsiveness.

7. Pros and Cons Recap:

  • Pros: Durable construction, adjustable hitch, easy installation, and lower price point than competitors.
  • Cons: Requires additional components for full functionality, cannot secure the swing arm in an open position, and legal issues due to lack of certain features.

8. Overall Assessment:

  • The mount is rated three stars, balancing its solid construction and ease of installation against its practical and legal shortcomings. It provides a reliable method to transport a spare tire but may not be ideal for those concerned with safety and legality.

9. Recommendation:

  • While the mount may be suitable for those prioritizing durability and who are willing to manage the additional hassles, it is advisable to consider alternatives that address the noted safety and legal concerns for a more compliant solution.

Introduction: Why You Need a Reliable Spare Tire Mount 

For any 4X4 owner, especially those who love off-roading or long road trips, a reliable spare tire mount is indispensable. The Hornet Outdoors Truck Receiver Hitch Spare Tire Mount claims to offers a secure and convenient solution to transport a spare tire, ensuring you’re never stranded without a backup. Made in the USA, this mount promises durability and ease of use, but does it live up to its claims? Let’s dive deeper. 

High-Quality Design and Construction 

The Hornet Outdoors Spare Tire Mount is tailored for all 2-inch receivers, offering a sturdy and stable platform for your spare tire. Constructed with high-quality American steel, the mount is built to withstand even the most rugged off-road conditions. Its adjustable hitch not only provides a customized fit but also enhances the ease of use by accommodating different vehicle heights and sizes. 

Usability and Daily Performance 

However, while the mount’s design and construction are notable, its daily usability poses some challenges. The process of accessing the swing arm is cumbersome, involving the removal of a bolt which could easily be lost due to the lack of a securing leash. Furthermore, the mount cannot be locked in the open position, posing a safety hazard if it swings closed unexpectedly on uneven terrain. 

Legal and Safety Considerations 

A major oversight of this product is its lack of a license plate relocation kit. Many vehicles utilizing this mount may find themselves non-compliant with street legality due to obscured license plates. Moreover, the absence of integrated license plate lighting further complicates legal usage, particularly in low-light conditions. These issues are not only inconvenient but may also pose legal risks for users, impacting the mount’s overall appeal and functionality. 

Installation Simplicity and Compatibility 

Installation of the Hornet Outdoors Mount is straightforward: insert into the receiver hitch, secure with a hitch pin, attach the spare tire, and adjust the stabilizer for enhanced security. While the installation is a plus, the potential need for additional parts like longer bolts for some vehicle models can be a drawback. 

Customer Service and Support Feedback 

The effectiveness of any product is often reflected in the quality of its customer service. In this case, the customer service provided by Hornet Outdoors has room for improvement, with reports of inadequate follow-through and responsiveness. 

Pros and Cons Recap 

Pros: 

Robust construction with durable American steel. 

Adjustable hitch ensures a secure fit for various vehicles. 

Straightforward installation process. 

Lower price point than other solutions. 

Cons: 

Requires additional components for full functionality. 

Cannot secure the swing arm in an open position. 

Lack of license plate relocation kit and lighting solutions may lead to legal issues. 

Additional parts must be purchased separately to get the same features found on other units. 

Final Thoughts: Is It the Right Choice for You? 

The Hornet Outdoors Truck Receiver Hitch Spare Tire Mount achieves a 3.5-star rating due to its solid build and easy installation but is let down by practical and legal shortcomings. While the mount provides a reliable way to transport a spare tire, its limitations in safety features and customer service may deter potential users. If durability is your primary concern and you are prepared to handle the additional hassles, this mount may be suitable. However, considering the legal implications of its use, exploring alternatives that address these concerns might be advisable. For a more detailed exploration of outdoor gear, including the best in camping, hiking, and overlanding equipment, visit MoabReviews.com.