When it comes to bike racks, there’s no shortage of options on the market. But if you’re looking for a high-quality rack that will last for years, Thule is a brand worth considering and trusted by experts all over the world. Founded in 1942, Thule has been a leader in the car rack industry for decades, and its bike racks are some of the best on the market.
Thule bike racks are well-constructed, easy to use, and fit a wide range of vehicles. Best of all, they offer a great selection of models to choose from, so you can find the perfect rack for your car. Moreover, their racks are designed with both function and safety in mind. So, whether you’re looking for a hitch mount, roof mount, or trunk mount, Thule has got you covered. Here’s a rundown of some of the best Thule bike racks to buy in 2023, so you can find the perfect option for your needs.
Table of Contents
Best Thule Bike Racks for 2023 | Expert Picks
Best Thule Bike Racks for 2023 | An In-depth Review
We tested 5 Thule bike racks on plain roads, and off roads as well. Some bike racks impressed us with their high-quality build, whereas some have advanced features. Let’s check out our findings.
1. Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR Hitch Bike Rack
| Brand | Thule |
| Vehicle Service Type | Truck, Car, SUV |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 54 x 43 x 15 inches |
| Item Weight | 52.04 Pounds |
| Is Foldable | Yes |
| Load Capacity | 60 Pounds |
| Mounting Type | Easy Snap |
We first tested the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR hitch bike rack, which is one of their top products. Its online reviews and customer feedback were awesome, so we tested it ourselves to see if the claims were relevant or not. We carried our full suspension mountain bikes and traveled more than 100 miles. Let’s check out what we found.
This rack is designed to be highly durable and easy to use, and it can accommodate up to two bicycles. The Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR Hitch Bike Rack features a hitch-mounted design that makes it easy to load and unload bikes, and it also includes a built-in lock for security. The rack is made from steel for durability, and it has a powder-coated finish for rust resistance.
What we love most about Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR Hitch Bike Rack is that it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty, making it a great choice for those looking for a high-quality bike rack. Also, the rack is easy to install and comes with all the necessary hardware. The rack also includes an adapter for use with either 1.25 or 2-inch hitch receivers. The hitch mount makes it easy to install and remove, and the tilting feature allows you to access your trunk without removing the rack.
Overall, the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR is a great option for those looking for a reliable and easy-to-use hitch bike rack. We love this heavy-duty bike rack as designed for those who need a reliable way to transport their bikes. Check out its amazing specs and features by clicking the link below.
2. Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack
| Brand | Thule |
| Material | Aluminum, Plastic |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 48.4 x 25 x 26.75 inches |
| Item Weight | 45 Pounds |
| Is Foldable | Yes |
| Load Capacity | 130 Pounds |
| Mounting Type | Power Grip |
And our next pick is the Thule Easy Fold X2 bike rack which is by far the best model we have ever tested. We used this bike rack for long travelling, and to our surprise, it did not move our bikes a bit, and there was no scratch as well. Honestly, Thule EasyFold XT 2 bike rack is one of the best hitch bike racks on the market for a number of reasons. Let’s find out what more we found.
The Thule EasyFold XT 2 is a hitch-mounted bike rack that offers a convenient, easy-to-use solution for transporting up to two bikes. The rack features a fold-down design that makes it easy to store when not in use, and it also features built-in wheel holders and an integrated locking system for security.
The Thule EasyFold XT 2 is compatible with most vehicles, and it can be quickly and easily installed without the need for tools. The rack also includes a built-in accessory mount for attaching lights or other accessories. Plus, the integrated ramp allows you to roll your bikes up onto the rack, while the padded frame hooks keep your bikes securely in place.
The best thing we loved about this bike is it is backed by a lifetime warranty on Thule bike rack parts and battery. This means Thule trusts its products a lot, and you will not have to deal with any issues for many upcoming years. All in all, whether you’re an occasional cyclist or a dedicated road warrior, the Thule EasyFold XT 2 is a great choice for transporting your bikes.
3. Thule Apex XT Bike Rack
| Color | BLACK |
| Material | Metal |
| Brand | Thule |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 42.1 x 11 x 37 inches |
| Item Weight | 35 Pounds |
| Is Foldable | Yes |
| Load Capacity | 150 Pounds |
| Mounting Type | Easy Snap |
The next spot on our list is Thule Apex XT bike rack, and with its amazing features, you will also understand why it truly deserves to be called one of the best bike racks. It is cheaper than our first two picks i.e. Thule T2 Pro and Thule Easyfold XT2 but still offers impressive features. With Anti-sway cradles to ease of assembly, let’s check out what we loved most while testing it.
The Thule Apex XT is a hitch-mounted bike rack that is easy to use and provides a secure way to transport 4 bikes at a time. The rack features an integrated tool-free locking system that secures the bikes to the rack and robust steel construction to carry up to four bikes.
The Apex XT also features a tilting design that allows easy access to the trunk of your car and an integrated lighting system that ensures your bikes are visible at night. With its easy installation and great features, the Thule Apex XT is the perfect solution for transporting your bikes. Moreover, it features a full-suspension frame that absorbs bumps and vibrations, keeping your bike secure and protected.
The Apex XT has a maximum weight capacity of 150 pounds, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Overall, the Thule Apex XT bike hitch rack is a great option for those looking for a quality bike rack that is easy to use and provides security to the bikes. You can check out more detailed specs, features, and today’s best deals by clicking on the link below.
4. Thule Camber Hitch Bike Rack
| Color | BLACK |
| Material | Metal |
| Brand | Thule |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 11 x 42.2 x 35.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 34 Pounds |
| Is Foldable | Yes |
| Load Capacity | 150 Pounds |
| Mounting Type | Easy Snap |
The Thule Camber Hitch Bike Rack is a great option for those who are looking for an easy-to-use, reliable, and affordable bike rack. This bike rack features a hitch-mounted design that makes it easy to install and remove, and it also includes a locking mechanism to keep your bike secure.
The Camber can accommodate up to four bikes, and it has a weight capacity of 150 pounds. So, if you are a group of friends who love biking but are always worried about transportation issues, then the Thule Camber bike rack is something for you. Additionally, the Camber is compatible with most types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Also Read: Best Bike Racks for SUV
The racks are made of durable materials, and they have a protective coating to prevent scratches. They also have an integrated anti-sway system to keep your bikes from moving around during transport. You can also add an optional lock to secure the bikes to the rack. So, the Camber Hitch bike rack is a safe option for anyone who wants a secure and easy way to transport their bikes.
The Camber also has a built-in tilt function that allows easy access to the trunk or hatch of your vehicle. The Camber sports a sturdy steel construction and can accommodate up to four bikes at once. For added convenience, the Camber folds down when not in use, so you can still access your trunk. Overall, buying this rack is actually a worthy investment.
5. Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike Rack
| Color | Black |
| Material | Aluminum, Plastic |
| Brand | Thule |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 23.5 x 18 x 33 inches |
| Item Weight | 14.7 Pounds |
| Is Foldable | Yes |
| Load Capacity | 105 Pounds |
| Mounting Type | Trunk Mount |
Our last but not least pick is the Thule Gateway Pro Trunk bike rack which can hold up to 3 bikes. We used this on our car and traveled 40 km to check if it was worthy of our investment or not. But it impressed us because not only our bikes were tightly secured, but they were intact without any damage.
The sturdier design is perfect for best electric bikes, heavier bikes, full suspension mountain bikes, etc. and its padded feet help protect your vehicle from scratches. And for added security, the integrated locking system ensures that your bikes will stay safe and sound during your travels. Moreover, it has a maximum weight capacity of 105 pounds.
This trunk bike rack features Thule’s patented EasyFold technology, which allows for quick and easy installation. In addition, the integrated tool-free attachment system makes it a breeze to attach your bikes to the rack.
Also, we find it extremely secure to attach our bikes because Thule bike racks hitch has a 6-strap tightening system. So no matter how much distance you cover, its ultimate grip will keep your bike safe. Overall, this bike rack from Thule has made us fall in love head over heels.
Different Types of Thule Bike Racks
Roof Mount Rack
A roof mount bike rack is a great option if you have limited space on your vehicle or if you want a more aerodynamic rack. This type of rack attaches to the roof of your vehicle and can be more difficult to load and unload bikes. However, they are very secure and provide a great deal of protection for your bikes.
Trunk Mount Rack
A trunk mount bike rack is a good choice if you have a small vehicle or want a rack that is easy to install and remove. This type of rack attaches to the trunk of your vehicle and can be quickly installed and removed as needed. A trunk bike rack is typically very affordable.
Rear Mount Rack
Rear mount racks are the most popular type of bike rack, as they provide easy access to the trunk of your car. However, they can also be more difficult to install than other racks. Rear mount racks typically attach to the car with two straps that go over the top of the car and around the back bumper. They often have additional straps that go around the bottom of the car to provide stability.
Hitch Mount Rack
A hitch mount bike rack from Thule is a great choice if you want a rack that is strong, secure, and easy to load and unload. These Thule bike racks hitch typically attach to the trailer hitch on your vehicle, making them very stable. They also tend to be less expensive than other types of bike racks.
Front Mount Rack
Front mount racks are less popular, but they are easier to install. These racks typically attach to the car’s front bumper, and they have only two straps that go over the top of the car. This means that they can be more difficult to keep in place, but they are often easier to remove when you need to access the trunk of your car.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Thule Bike Racks
If you’re looking for the best Thule bike racks, there are a few things you’ll need to consider before making your purchase. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:
Type of Bike Rack
There are several different types of Thule bike racks, so you’ll need to decide which one is right for your needs. If you’re just looking for a basic rack to transport your bikes, a trunk-mounted rack may be all you need. However, if you want something more versatile and durable, a roof-mounted or hitch bike rack may be better.
Number of Bikes
Another important consideration is how many bikes you need to be able to transport. If you only need to transport one or two bikes, a smaller rack may be sufficient. However, if you have a large family or group of friends who bike together, you’ll need a larger rack that can accommodate multiple bikes.
Size of your Vehicle
Make sure to measure your vehicle before purchasing a bike rack, as some racks are too large for certain vehicles. In addition, keep in mind that some hitch-mounted racks can add considerable length to your car, so make sure you have enough space in your garage or parking spot.
Weight of the Rack
If you plan on frequently removing and attaching the rack, or if you need to transport heavy bikes, look for a lighter-weight rack. This will make it easier to move and install the rack and reduce wear and tear on your vehicle.
The bike racks can range from around $100 to $500 or more, so be sure to set a budget before you start shopping. In general, hitch-mounted and roof-mounted racks tend to be more expensive than trunk-mounted racks, offering more features and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which type of Thule bike rack is right for me?
The type of Thule bike rack that is right for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for the most protection for your bikes, a roof mount rack is the way to go. And if you want a rack that is easy to move from one vehicle to another, a hitch bike rack like Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR is a good option. But if you are on a budget and do not need extra protection, a trunk mount rack will do the job.
Q2. How do I know which Thule bike rack will fit my car?
Thule offers a fit guide on their website that will help you determine which bike rack will fit your car. Simply enter your car’s make, model, and year, and the guide will show you which racks are compatible.
Q3. What are the benefits of using a Thule bike rack?
There are many benefits of using a Thule bike rack, including protection for your bikes, ease of use, and compatibility with a wide range of cars. Roof mount racks offer the most protection for your bikes, keeping them safe from weather and road debris. Hitch mount racks are easy to load and unload and you can quickly move them from one car to another. Trunk mount racks like Thule Gateway Pro are the most economical option but still offer good protection for your bikes.
Q4. How do I use a Thule bike rack?
These bike racks come with detailed Thule bike rack instructions and are typically easy to install. Roof mount racks require some assembly but you can install them in minutes. Hitch mount and trunk mount racks come pre-assembled and can be installed in seconds.
Simply load your bikes onto the rack and secure them in place. For hitch mount and trunk mount racks, you will need to secure the rack to your car with the provided straps or bolts. For roof mount racks, you will need to attach the rack to your car’s roof rack system.
Q5. What are some tips for using a Thule bike rack?
Here are some tips for using a Thule bike rack –
– Make sure that your bikes are securely fastened to the rack before driving.
– Check the straps or bolts that secure the rack to your car regularly to ensure that they are tight.
– When not in use, store the rack in a dry, protected area.
Some Last Words
Now that you know all about the best Thule bike racks for 2023, it’s time to choose the perfect one for your needs. We hope our review has helped make your decision a little easier, but if you have any questions or need help choosing the right rack, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Also, you can read more reviews about best electric unicycles, best mountain bikes for men, best road bikes, and lot more accessories exclusively on our website. We are sure there is something for everyone!!
