Thule bike mounts: models, pros and cons

Thule bike mounts are rightfully considered one of the most convenient, simple, and functional options on the market. With the help of a device that is easy to install, each owner of a personal car can solve the problem of transporting one or more two-wheeled bikes without making radical changes to its design.

But all of them are focused on people with minimal technical knowledge - You can find exactly the format that is suitable for a particular model and brand of car, and install it in a couple of minutes.

Before making a final decision when choosing a mount for a car, it’s worth understanding all the details and understanding how exactly the Swedish company is ready to provide safe transportation of bicycles.

Thule special bike mounts are considered one of the most reliable means for fixing one or several bikes for a trip, short or long trip. The Swedish company is proud of its engineering developments and offers a wide range of solutions that can provide optimal results. Depending on the design of the machine, you can choose the place and method of fixation.

Thule brand takes its development seriously - all products undergo full-scale testing.

Particular attention is paid to the selection of materials. Preference is given to metals that are resistant to corrosion and do not damage the paintwork of the machine.

Absolutely all types of bike mounts for cars are made in the form of vertical racks or support platforms. Depending on how the two-wheeled transport will be fixed, you can also divide the locking devices into several groups. Thule has 3 product lines with mounts.

A universal option for transporting up to 4 bicycles at a time. This mount format is considered the most reliable, makes it easy to install and remove even heavy bikes.

The best choice when there is no tow bar or hitch. There are no strict restrictions on the weight of vehicles, You can use bicycles of various types and designs, including heavy or with thick wheels.

If there are arcs or without them, Thule will offer its own version. The roof rack can be picked up so that the bike is fixed by the wheel, held onto the frame or fork. This is a safe and convenient solution if the design of the car does not require a tow bar, and the luggage compartment must be constantly opened and closed.

Thule produces several varieties of roof racks with a roof mount. Among the most popular options are several models.

Functional model with holder for the frame. Fastens on a luggage carrier by means of the locks which are included in the package. For wheels fixing is provided with special quick-detachable belts. Compatible with through axis, an adapter may be required for roof racks with T-rails.

Vertical mount that can withstand bicycles up to 20 kg in weight. Provides for automatic installation of the bike at the time of fixation. The mount does not need assembly; for use on bikes with carbon frames, an adapter should be used.

Fork-type fastener that does not need adapters. Suitable for through axle bikes. Simplified loading of the bike is provided. Adapted only to roof racks with T-rail guides.

Fastening with fixing of a fork - one of the simplest in the lineup. Adapted for fixing fatbikes with tires up to 3 ″. Suitable for round and oval frames.

This category of bike mounts is one of the most numerous at Thule. You can highlight the most popular models.

The simplest and easiest mount, holds 2 bikes with rubber straps. Convenient folding mechanism for easy storage. With adapter suitable for any frame.

Needs additional fastening lock, there is a tilt function. It does not require complicated adjustment. There are versions for 3 and 4 bicycles.

Available for 2 or 3 bikes, depending on version. Simple hinged design easily moved by hand, you can change the angle.

There are versions for 2 and 3 bicycles. A special lock noticeably simplifies installation. Bikes are fixed due to frame holders.

One of the toughest mounts, the number of bicycles carried is from 2 to 4, no tools needed for assembly. Extensible wheel locks for any base are included.

Suitable for all bikes, including fat bikes. Can serve additional trunk in conjunction with the BackSpace XT cargo box.

Universal folding mount.

This category of Thule mounts helps make loading and transporting bicycles as easy and convenient as possible. The frame will be reliably protected from damage.

Bicycle rack for the car with fixing on the cables. Quick installation, the presence of rubber gaskets to protect the body, folding design make this model very popular. There are options for 2 or 3 bicycles.

Series for cars with a minivan or minibus body, mounted on the rear door.The standard capacity of the lodgement is 2 or 3 bikes, it can be expanded to 4. The rack for transportation allows you to change the parameters of the base, taking into account the length and width of the wheels.

Fixture for a bicycle carrier is calculated on fixing to a back door of the car. Simple design withstands up to 3 bikes, nSuitable for sedans and hatchbacks.

The model with the simplest design. It is focused on cars in a hatchback or station wagon body.

Many bike mount models, like the popular Pack'n Pedal Sport trunk, have been discontinued. The manufacturer regularly updates the lineup, introduces new technologies, and irrelevant clips are removed from circulation.

Consider the pros and cons of installing Thule bike mounts for transporting bikes.

Let's start with the obvious advantages.

1. Simple installation. Installation of bike mounts in most cases does not require the use of special tools, allows you to perform all the manipulations in a few minutes.
2. Variable number of bikes. When using additional accessories, the bike carrier can easily be extended by 1-2 sections, making it possible to transport more bicycles.
3. Surface protection. Thule provided safety pads where the bike frame or machine paint may be damaged.
4. Individual solutions for any body. This is important if the machine has non-standard dimensions or design.

By cons include the need to purchase additional components. Adapters, locks and many other elements that allow you to adapt the mount to non-standard parameters of the car are quite expensive. Otherwise, Thule products are quite comfortable for cyclists.

When choosing a Thule bike carrier for a car, it is worth considering such moments as the presence or absence of a tow bar, roof rack. In their absence, you will have to choose a latch among a much less wide range of models. Cycling to the roof can be uncomfortable with a significant height of the machine, they are the most difficult to adjust, not adapted to all types of luggage.

It is worth considering mobility of the device itself.

Supporting brackets for bicycles give greater safety during transportation, suspension means the application of some effort when loading equipment. True, the second option has its advantages: such bicycle racks do not obstruct the view, usually have a folding structure and are quite convenient to install.

A video review of the Thule ProRide 598 roof bike rack can be viewed below.