I don't think because I want to move the tire inboard for clearance that it is the latest fad, but maybe I can start something.
The last two trips to Moab sent the tire carrier into the tailgate and on Pritchard Canyon I got hung up on it while trying to climb a very steep angle, yes the UAV gets wheeled.
Even Depdog has broken his before so I know I am not the only one. I want a solution that I don't have to mess with on the trail, I could put it up higher etc. but I want to be able to backup in tight spaces right up against my rear bumper, I have been running tighter and tigher trails and need to make the K5 as small as posiable.
Also, when on washboard roads having the spare on the bumper feels like someone is jumping up and down on my bumper, I can really feel the weight of the tire moving up and down. I do like the space savings of having it on the outside but want it to be as good as it can be off-road first, I still plan on keeping the rear seat.
A lot of people bob their rigs to make them shorter for the trail, I can bob mine like 18" just by moving the spare inside.
"I just cant picture any situation where I would want the tire back inside the truck. Let us in on the reasoning Steve!" Come out to Moab and I will show you.
Steve
Mall-Running poseur 4x4 with curb-feelers