6 Best Thule Roof Racks for Bike, Compared
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Choosing the best thule roof racks for bike transport depends on your vehicle and bike type. We compared 6 models using only the specifications published on their listings. The top pick is the Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack. It leads because it fits 5-inch tires, making it ideal for fat bikes. This rack requires a 2-inch receiver and weighs 52 pounds. Other options include roof-mounted and trunk-mounted carriers with varying weights and dimensions. This guide helps you decide which carrier matches your specific needs.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack Best overall | Fat bikes and wide tires | Check price of Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack on Amazon |
| 2 | Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack Also great | single bike owners with standard tires | Check price of Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack on Amazon |
| 3 | Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack Best budget | trunk mounting two bikes without roof bars | Check price of Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack on Amazon |
| 4 | Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack Also great | single bike transport with frame protection | Check price of Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack on Amazon |
| 5 | Thule FastRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack Also great | Standard quick-release bikes with disc brakes | Check price of Thule FastRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack on Amazon |
| 6 | Thule TopRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack Best premium | secure transport of quick release bikes | Check price of Thule TopRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You need to carry two fat bikes on a hitch Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack It fits 5-inch tires and mounts to a 2-inch receiver.
- You want the lightest rack for a single bike Thule FastRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack It weighs 7.28 pounds and uses a torque limiter for safe mounting.
- You need to transport two bikes without a hitch Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack It holds two bikes and weighs only 13.7 pounds.
- You need the most compact single bike roof rack Thule TopRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack It is only 6 inches wide and 7.7 pounds.
Our 6 picks
Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack
Best for: Fat bikes and wide tires
- Use
- Bike (what this guide is about)
- Size
- One Size
- Mount Type
- Hitch Mount
- Receiver Size
- 2 Inch
- Lockable
- Lockable
- Dimensions
- 54 × 43 × 15 inches
View on Amazon: Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack Affiliate link
This is a hitch-mounted bike rack designed to carry two bicycles. It supports wheels from 20 to 29 inches and tires up to 5 inches wide. The rack weighs 52 pounds and features a HitchSwitch lever for tilting. It includes integrated wheels for maneuvering and cable locks for security. You will need a 2-inch receiver for installation. It suits riders with wider tires or larger wheels.
Pros
- Supports tires up to 5 inches wide
- Fits 20 to 29 inch wheels
- HitchSwitch lever tilts for rear access
- Integrated cable locks secure bikes
- Zero frame contact design
Cons
- Weighs 52 pounds
- Requires a 2-inch hitch receiver
- Base model carries only 2 bikes
Good fit if
- You ride fat bikes or mountain bikes
- You need tilt access to your vehicle
- You have a 2-inch hitch receiver
Skip if
- You only have a 1.25-inch hitch receiver
- You need to carry more than 2 bikes
- You want a roof-mounted solution
Verdict: Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Bike Rack is a sturdy hitch option for riders with wide tires. It fits 5-inch tires and tilts for access. You should choose it if you have a 2-inch receiver and need to transport two large bikes.
Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack
Best for: single bike owners with standard tires
- Use
- Bike (what this guide is about)
- Bike Capacity
- 1
- Mount Type
- Roof
- Load Capacity
- 44 lbs
- Locking
- Locks sold separately
- Vehicle Compatibility
- Thule rack systems, most factory racks
View on Amazon: Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack Affiliate link
The Thule UpRide is a universal upright roof bike rack for one bicycle. It features no frame contact to protect your bike and fits wheels up to 29 inches with tires up to 3 inches wide. The rack weighs 18.5 pounds and measures 64 inches long. You can mount it on either side of your vehicle. It supports bikes with carbon frames and rear suspension. Locks are sold separately.
Pros
- No frame contact protects bike finish
- Fits tires up to 3 inches wide
- Fits wheels up to 29 inches
- Switchable mounting side
- Suitable for carbon frames
Cons
- Locks sold separately
- Fat bike adapter sold separately
- Holds only one bike
Good fit if
- You ride a single bike with standard tires
- You have a carbon frame or rear suspension
- You need a rack that fits both sides of the vehicle
Skip if
- You need to carry more than one bike
- You ride bikes with tires wider than 3 inches
- You want locks included in the price
Verdict: Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack is a secure option for single bike owners with standard tires. It protects carbon frames and allows flexible mounting on either vehicle side.
Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack
Best for: trunk mounting two bikes without roof bars
- Use
- Bike (what this guide is about)
- Bike Capacity
- 1-2
- Mount Type
- Trunk
- Load Capacity
- 70 lbs
- Locking
- Integrated cable lock
- Folding
- Folds flat; arms fold down
View on Amazon: Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack Affiliate link
The Thule Gateway Pro is a hanging trunk rack designed to carry up to two bikes without a roof system or hitch receiver. It mounts with a six-strap tightening system and weighs 13.7 pounds. With a total weight capacity of 70 pounds and integrated anti-sway cradles spaced seven inches apart, you get a compact setup for standard frames.
Pros
- Total load capacity of 70 pounds across two bikes
- Lightweight 13.7-pound frame folds flat for storage
- Integrated cable lock secures bikes directly to the rack
- Six-strap tightening system provides tool-free installation
Cons
- Trunk-mount configuration cannot attach to roof crossbars
- Some bicycle frame styles require a separate frame adapter
- Weight limit caps individual bike loads below heavy e-bike levels
Good fit if
- You want to carry up to two bikes totaling 70 pounds or less.
- You prefer a trunk-mounted carrier with tool-free installation.
- You need rack arms and a frame that fold down flat for storage.
Skip if
- You need a carrier that mounts directly to vehicle roof bars.
- You transport more than two bikes or exceed 70 pounds total load.
Verdict: Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack fits cyclists who want a lightweight, strap-secured carrier for two bikes without installing roof crossbars or a hitch receiver.
Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack
Best for: single bike transport with frame protection
- Use
- Bike (what this guide is about)
- Bike Capacity
- 1 bike
- Mount Type
- roof
- Load Capacity
- 44 lbs
- Vehicle Compatibility
- all Thule systems, most factory racks
- Size
- One Size
View on Amazon: Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack Affiliate link
The Thule ProRide XT is a single-bike roof rack designed for secure transport. It holds up to 44 pounds and weighs 11 pounds. The 58-inch length allows for easy switching between vehicle sides. Soft claw pads protect your frame during mounting. You should choose this if you need a reliable, upright carrier for one bike that fits most factory racks.
Pros
- Universal upright design for 1 bike
- 44 lbs load capacity
- Soft claw pads protect frame
- Mounts to all Thule systems
- Switchable side mounting
Cons
- Holds only 1 bike
- Locks sold separately
- Heavier than trunk-mounted alternatives
Good fit if
- You transport a single bike regularly
- You already own a Thule roof rack system
- You want to protect your bike frame from scratches
Skip if
- You need to carry more than one bike
- You prefer a rack that includes integrated locking mechanisms
- You have limited roof space for a 58-inch carrier
Verdict: Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack is a sturdy, frame-protecting option for cyclists who carry one bike at a time. It fits buyers who already have Thule crossbars and prioritize frame safety over capacity.
Thule FastRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack
Best for: Standard quick-release bikes with disc brakes
- Use
- Bike (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- roof, fork mount
- Vehicle Compatibility
- Thule systems, round bars, factory racks
- Size
- One Size
- Dimensions
- 53 × 9 × 4 inches
- Weight
- 7.28 pounds
View on Amazon: Thule FastRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack Affiliate link
The Thule FastRide is a roof-mounted bike rack designed for standard quick-release bikes. It measures 53 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 4 inches high, weighing 7.28 pounds. The AcuTight torque limiter ensures secure mounting by clicking at optimal tightness. It accommodates disc brakes and includes an adjustable wheel strap. You need separate adapters for thru-axle bikes.
Pros
- AcuTight torque limiter clicks when optimal torque is reached
- Fits 9mm standard quick-release bikes
- Accommodates bikes with disc brakes
- Easy to convert between left and right side
Cons
- Requires separate adapters for thru-axle bikes
- Locks for bike and rack are sold separately
- Only fits 9mm quick-release without additional parts
Good fit if
- You ride a standard quick-release bike
- You want a secure mounting system with torque control
- You have disc brakes on your bike
Skip if
- You ride a thru-axle bike without adapters
- You want included locks for security
- You need a rack for multiple bikes
Verdict: Thule FastRide Roof Bike Rack is a secure option for standard quick-release bikes, featuring a torque limiter for safe installation. It suits riders with disc brakes who prioritize mounting precision over multi-bike capacity.
Thule TopRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack
Best for: secure transport of quick release bikes
- Use
- Bike (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- roof, fork mount
- Vehicle Compatibility
- Thule systems, round bars, factory racks
- Size
- One Size
- Dimensions
- 8 × 6 × 55 inches
- Weight
- 7.7 pounds
View on Amazon: Thule TopRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack Affiliate link
The Thule TopRide is a roof-mounted bike carrier designed for quick release and thru-axle bikes. It measures 55 inches in height and weighs 7.7 pounds. The AcuTight torque limiter provides visual confirmation that the bike is securely mounted. This rack fits carbon frames and disc brakes. It is a practical option for drivers who need a secure, low-profile solution for transporting bicycles on their vehicle roof.
Pros
- Compatible with both quick release and thru-axle bikes
- AcuTight torque limiter clicks when bike is securely mounted
- Integrated locking system secures bike and rack to car
- Protective wheel strap holds rear wheel in place
Cons
- Two locks are sold separately
- Requires roof crossbars for installation
- Height of 55 inches may affect garage clearance
Good fit if
- You own a bike with a quick release or thru-axle
- You want visual confirmation of a secure mount
- You ride carbon frame or disc brake bikes
Skip if
- You need a rack that includes built-in locks
- You prefer a trunk-mounted or hitch-mounted carrier
- You have low garage clearance for tall items
Verdict: Thule TopRide Roof Bike Rack is a secure, low-profile carrier for quick release and thru-axle bikes. It suits drivers who prioritize visual mounting confirmation and need to transport carbon or disc brake bikes.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack | Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack | Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack | Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack | Thule FastRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack | Thule TopRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | not stated | 1 | 1-2 | 1 bike | not stated | not stated |
| Mount Type | not stated | Roof | Trunk | roof | roof, fork mount | roof, fork mount |
| Load Capacity | not stated | 44 lbs | 70 lbs | 44 lbs | not stated | not stated |
| Locking | not stated | Locks sold separately | Integrated cable lock | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Folding | not stated | not stated | Folds flat; arms fold down | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Vehicle Compatibility | not stated | Thule rack systems, most factory racks | not stated | all Thule systems, most factory racks | Thule systems, round bars, factory racks | Thule systems, round bars, factory racks |
| Tire Width | not stated | 3" (up to 5" with adapter) | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Frame Contact | not stated | No frame contact | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | One Size | One Size | 2 bikes | One Size | One Size | One Size |
| Receiver Size | 2 Inch | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Use | Bike | Bike | Bike | Bike | Bike | Bike |
| Lockable | Lockable | not stated | Lockable | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Material | not stated | not stated | Steel | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 54 × 43 × 15 inches | 64 × 13 × 4.3 inches | 23.5 × 18 × 33 inches | 58 × 13.5 × 4 inches | 53 × 9 × 4 inches | 8 × 6 × 55 inches |
| Weight | 52 pounds | 18.5 pounds | 13.7 pounds | 11 pounds | 7.28 pounds | 7.7 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Model | 9034XTR | 599000 | 900600 | 598004 | 564005 | 568005 |
If you prefer hitch or trunk mounting options, compare load capacities for the best bike racks for car.
How to choose the right bike rack
-
Check your vehicle receiver
Hitch mounts require a specific receiver size. The Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 needs a 2-inch receiver. If your vehicle has a smaller opening, this rack will not fit. You must verify your hitch dimensions before buying. Roof and trunk racks do not use receivers. They attach directly to the vehicle body or roof bars. Always measure your receiver opening to ensure compatibility. Mismatched sizes prevent installation and cause safety issues. Confirm your vehicle’s hitch type matches the rack’s requirement.
-
Match tire width to rack
Tire width determines if a rack works for you. The T2 Pro XTR fits tires up to 5 inches wide. This makes it suitable for fat bikes. Standard road or mountain bikes usually have narrower tires. The UpRide and ProRide XT are designed for standard tire widths. If you have wide tires, check the maximum width spec. Using a rack that cannot accommodate your tire width risks damage. Ensure the rack’s width limit exceeds your tire size.
-
Decide on bike capacity
Capacity defines how many bikes you can carry. The Gateway Pro holds two bikes on a trunk. The T2 Pro XTR carries two bikes on a hitch. Most roof racks like the UpRide and ProRide XT hold only one bike. Choose based on your typical riding group. If you ride alone, a single-bike roof rack is lighter. If you ride with a partner, a two-bike hitch or trunk rack is necessary. Check the listed capacity to avoid overloading your vehicle.
-
Consider frame protection needs
Some racks clamp the frame, which can cause damage. The UpRide and ProRide XT are designed to protect carbon frames. They use specific clamping points to avoid stress. If you have a carbon bike, prioritize these models. The T2 Pro XTR uses wheel trays, which do not touch the frame. The Gateway Pro uses straps that may touch the frame. Check how the rack secures the bike. Frame protection is critical for expensive or fragile bicycle materials.
-
Evaluate weight and mounting
Weight affects handling and installation effort. The FastRide weighs 7.28 pounds, making it very light for roof mounting. The T2 Pro XTR weighs 52 pounds, requiring more effort to lift. Roof racks are generally lighter than hitch racks. The Gateway Pro is the lightest at 13.7 pounds. Consider your physical ability to lift the rack. Heavier racks may be harder to install and remove. Lighter racks are easier to handle but may feel less sturdy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a Thule bike rack on a car without roof bars?
Yes, but only if you choose a trunk-mounted model. The Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack attaches directly to your vehicle’s trunk. It weighs 13.7 pounds and does not require crossbars. This makes it suitable for cyclists who lack permanent roof rails. Other Thule options like the UpRide or ProRide XT require existing roof bars for installation.
Which Thule rack fits fat bikes with wide tires?
The Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack is designed for wide tires. It accommodates tires up to 5 inches wide. This hitch-mounted option weighs 52 pounds and requires a 2-inch receiver. It tilts for trunk access. Roof racks like the UpRide or FastRide are not specified for fat bikes and are intended for standard tire widths.
How heavy is the lightest Thule roof bike rack?
The Thule FastRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack is the lightest option listed. It weighs 7.28 pounds. Its compact design measures 9 inches wide and 53 inches long. This low weight aids in lifting the bike onto the roof. The TopRide is slightly heavier at 7.7 pounds, while the UpRide weighs 18.5 pounds.
Do Thule roof racks protect carbon fiber bike frames?
Several models are designed to protect carbon frames. The Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack and the Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack both clamp the bike by the top tube. This method avoids pressure on the down tube or carbon-specific areas. The UpRide also allows flexible mounting on either side of the vehicle for added convenience.
Which rack is best for transporting two bikes?
The Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack and the Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack both carry two bikes. The T2 Pro mounts to a 2-inch hitch receiver and weighs 52 pounds. The Gateway Pro attaches to the trunk and weighs 13.7 pounds. Roof racks like the UpRide, ProRide XT, FastRide, and TopRide are single-bike carriers.
Do I need a hitch receiver for the Thule T2 Pro XTR?
Yes, this rack requires a 2-inch hitch receiver. It is a hitch-mounted carrier that weighs 52 pounds. If your vehicle has a smaller receiver size, this model will not fit. You must verify your receiver dimensions before purchase. Other Thule options like the UpRide or FastRide mount to the roof and do not require a hitch.
Does the Thule FastRide work with disc brakes?
Yes, the Thule FastRide Roof Mounted Bike Rack is suitable for bikes with disc brakes. It features a torque limiter to ensure safe installation. This rack weighs 7.28 pounds and measures 53 inches long. It is designed for standard quick-release bikes. The TopRide also supports disc brake bikes with a secure, low-profile design.
What is the difference between the Thule UpRide and ProRide XT?
Both are single-bike roof carriers, but they differ in weight and features. The UpRide weighs 18.5 pounds and allows flexible mounting on either vehicle side. The ProRide XT is lighter at 11 pounds. Both protect carbon frames by clamping the top tube. The UpRide is slightly wider at 13 inches compared to the ProRide XT’s 13.5 inches.