The Ultimate Thule Bike Rack Buyers Guide For Outdoor Enthusiast
For over 75 years, Thule has been providing innovative solutions to simplify all of life’s adventures. If you’re looking to hit the road in more ways than one this year, a Thule bike rack is many cycling enthusiasts’ must-have adventure accessory.
At Campway’s, we understand the importance of getting the most out of your vehicle and the equipment you outfit it with. When it comes to choosing a bike rack, we want to ensure your gear is always secure and ready for your next journey.
In this guide we will take a closer look at the different types of Thule bike rack systems and their unique benefits, to help you determine the best style for your needs.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Thule Bike Rack
When choosing a bike rack, the best place to start is with your vehicle. Whether you have a sedan, hatchback, SUV, minivan, or truck, you’ll need to make sure the bike rack you choose is compatible with your car. Most Thule bike racks will require a tow-hitch receiver, or a roof crossbars system to install onto your vehicles.
Thule bike racks offer an extensive variety of installation options to ensure whatever vehicle you drive, you can take your bike everywhere safely and securely.
Thule Rooftop Bike Racks
Thule Roof Mounted Bike Racks are great for shorter vehicles with lower loading height or models that do not have a tow hitch receiver installed. They allow you to store your bike up and out of the way, without blocking access to your vehicle’s doors or windows. To install a rooftop bike rack, your vehicle will need a roof rack system.
Rooftop racks are designed to secure one bike at a time. They are available in fork, frame, and wheel mounting styles. To help narrow your search for the perfect bike rack, consider how you would prefer to mount your bike Forked Mounted Bike Racks.
Fork Mounted Bike Racks
A fork mount bike rack secures your bike by the front fork ends. So you will need to remove your wheel to load your bike in this style of rack.
Frame Mounted Bike Racks
Frame mount carriers use an adjustable arm and clamp to secure the down tube of your bike frame. This type of mount is not recommended for carbon bike frames.
Wheel Mounted Bike Rack
Front wheel mounted bike racks rely on a similar arm and clamp mechanism, but use the wheel as the mounting point instead.
Thule Rear Hitch Bike Racks
Thule hitch-mounted bike racks are great for people who need to accommodate multiple bike frame sizes and styles. They are designed to carry two to five bikes at a time by frame or wheel securing mounts. Rear hitch racks are known for being incredibly secure and easy to mount, and require no heavy lifting. To install a rear hitch bike rack, your vehicle will need to be equipped with a tow hitch receiver.
Thule Hitch Standing Platform Bike Racks
Thule platform hitch racks are designed to carry up to two bikes at a time. They can accommodate a variety of frame styles. Loading and unloading a platform bike rack is quick and easy, and the rack can fold up when not in use. Many Thule platform racks have full-tilt positioning to allow for easy trunk access even when your bikes are mounted.
Thule Hitch Hanging Bike Racks
Thule’s hanging hitch racks can hold up to five bikes at a time, all firmly secured by the top tube of the bike frame. Hanging hitch racks can either come with full-tilt positioning or swing-away access to your vehicle’s trunk.
Thule Trunk Bike Racks
Thule Trunk Bike Racks are a good option if you don’t want to install a roof rack system or a hitch receiver on your vehicle. Trunk bike racks can carry one to three bikes at a time and are typically frame-mounted. This style of bike rack is very easy to remove and install, making it a great choice for cyclists who don’t travel with their bikes as frequently.
Thule Truck Bed Bike Racks
Thule also offers options for cyclists looking to secure their bikes in the bed of their trucks. The majority of the truck bike racks are fork-mounted and hold one to two bikes at a time. They can be mounted directly to the side of the truck bed or secured in the back of the bed without the need for drilling. Thule also has a heavy-duty, gate protection pad that allows you to secure up to eight bikes over the tailgate of their truck.
Shop Campway’s and Get 10% Off All Thule Bike Racks through January 2021
Don’t miss out on our January monthly special and get 10% off all Thule Bike Racks at Campway’s Truck Accessory World.
To connect with one of our specialists about shopping or installing a bike rack, contact us online. Our technicians are here to help you outfit your vehicle for whatever lays ahead!
