Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike or Thule Compass Kayak SUP Roof? Which Thule Model to Buy
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You are looking at the thule gateway pro trunk bike vs compass kayak sup roof. Both are Thule carriers designed for easy, tool-free installation and secure transport. They share a common goal of protecting your gear while on the move. The main difference lies in their purpose. One is a trunk-mounted rack for bicycles. The other is a roof-mounted system for water sports. You need to decide which vehicle type and cargo match your active lifestyle.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack | Thule Compass Kayak & SUP Roof Rack |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Trunk | Roof |
| Capacity | 1-2 bikes | 1-2 kayaks or SUPs |
| Load Capacity | 70 lbs | 130 lbs |
| Weight | 13.7 pounds | 20 pounds |
| Security | Integrated cable lock | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack if
- You transport one or two bicycles and lack roof racks.
- You want a lightweight carrier that folds flat for storage.
- You need integrated security for your bikes during transit.
Choose Thule Compass Kayak & SUP Roof Rack if
- You carry kayaks or stand up paddleboards on your roof.
- You need a higher load capacity for heavier watercraft.
- You prefer a versatile carrier with multiple carry modes.
Verdict: Choose the Thule Gateway Pro if you primarily transport bikes and do not have roof racks. Pick the Thule Compass if you need to carry kayaks or SUPs on your roof. Your choice depends entirely on whether your adventures are on two wheels or two paddles.
Thule Gateway Pro vs Compass Comparison
Primary Use Case
The Thule Gateway Pro is designed specifically for bicycles. It features hanging-style cradles that hold frames securely. This makes it ideal for transporting two bikes to trails or events. The Thule Compass, however, targets water sports enthusiasts. It is built to carry kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. It supports J-style or saddle mode configurations. You must choose based on your primary adventure. If you ride bikes, the Gateway Pro is the correct tool. If you paddle, the Compass is the necessary carrier.
Load Capacity
Weight limits differ significantly between these two carriers. The Thule Gateway Pro supports a maximum load of 70 pounds. This is sufficient for two standard bicycles. The Thule Compass offers a much higher capacity of 130 pounds. This allows you to transport heavier kayaks or larger paddleboards safely. The higher limit on the Compass provides more flexibility for heavy gear. You should check your specific equipment weight before loading. The Compass wins here for those carrying heavier watercraft.
Capacity and Config
Both carriers handle two items, but the geometry varies. The Gateway Pro holds two bikes side-by-side with integrated anti-sway cradles. It provides seven inches of spacing to prevent frame contact. The Compass can carry two kayaks in stacker mode or two SUPs in saddle mode. It also handles a single kayak in J-style. The Compass offers more versatile stacking options for wide boards. The Gateway Pro focuses on secure, parallel bike transport. Your choice depends on whether you need parallel or stacked storage.
Vehicle Mount Type
Installation location is a critical decision for you. The Thule Gateway Pro attaches to your vehicle trunk. It uses a six-strap tightening system for a secure fit. This requires a flat trunk surface and no roof rails. The Thule Compass mounts to roof rack systems. It uses universal mounting hardware that fits all rack types. You need existing crossbars or a roof rack to use the Compass. The Gateway Pro is better for cars without roof racks.
Physical Dimensions
Size matters for storage and transport. The Gateway Pro measures 18 inches wide, 33 inches high, and 23.5 inches long. It weighs 13.7 pounds. The Compass is 19.6 inches wide, 7.1 inches high, and 32 inches long. It weighs 20 pounds. The Gateway Pro is taller but lighter. The Compass is shorter and wider, fitting lower profiles on roofs. The Compass is heavier, which may affect roof load calculations. Consider your vehicle's roof height and trunk space carefully.
Security Features
Both carriers include security measures to protect your gear. The Thule Gateway Pro features an integrated cable lock. This allows you to secure your bikes to the rack itself. The Thule Compass does not list an integrated lock in its specifications. You will likely need to use your own separate locks for the Compass. The integrated lock on the Gateway Pro adds convenience. It keeps your bikes attached even if the rack is removed. This is a practical advantage for quick stops.
Which Thule Carrier Fits Your Gear
Cyclists needing trunk mount for two bikes
You need a dedicated trunk rack for up to two bicycles. The Gateway Pro offers a 70 lb load capacity with integrated anti-sway cradles. It provides 7 inches of spacing between bikes to prevent frame contact. The 18-inch width and 13.7-pound weight make it compact for storage when folded flat.
Kayak and SUP owners using roof bars
You require a roof-mounted solution for watercraft. The Compass supports kayaks or SUPs up to 36 inches wide. It holds one kayak in J-style or two in saddle mode. The 130 lb load capacity ensures secure transport. Universal mounting hardware fits all rack systems, and it folds flat for easy storage.
Users prioritizing high weight capacity for heavy gear
You need maximum strength for heavier equipment. The Compass offers a 130 lb load capacity, exceeding the Gateway Pro's 70 lb limit. This higher rating supports larger watercraft or multiple items securely. The robust design handles substantial weight without compromising stability, making it ideal for bulky cargo transport on roof bars.
The products compared
Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack
Best for: carrying up to two bikes on trunk mounts
- Bike Capacity
- 1-2
- Mount Type
- Trunk
- Load Capacity
- 70 lbs
- Locking
- Integrated cable lock
- Folding
- Folds flat; arms fold down
- Use
- Bike
View on Amazon: Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack Affiliate link
This is a trunk-mounted bike rack designed for 1 to 2 bikes. It features a 6-strap tightening system for secure attachment to your vehicle. The integrated anti-sway cradles provide 7 inches of spacing between bikes to prevent contact. Weighing 13.7 pounds, it folds flat for storage. It includes a built-in cable lock for security. This model suits drivers who need a compact, tool-free solution for transporting bicycles.
Pros
- Trunk mount type with 6-strap tightening system
- 7 inches of spacing between bikes via anti-sway cradles
- Integrated cable lock for security
- Folds up flat for convenient storage
- Tool-free installation
Cons
- 70 lbs load capacity is lower than roof rack standards
- Requires trunk mounting which may obscure license plates
- Frame adapters may be needed for some bike styles
Good fit if
- You have a vehicle without roof rails
- You need to transport 1 or 2 bikes
- You want a rack that folds flat for storage
Skip if
- You need to carry more than 2 bikes
- You prefer roof-mounted carriers for easier loading
- You have a vehicle with a spare tire on the rear door
Verdict: Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack is a practical choice for drivers who need to transport up to two bikes without roof racks. It offers secure strap mounting and compact folding for users with limited storage space.
Thule Compass Kayak & SUP Roof Rack
Best for: transporting one or two kayaks or SUPs
- Mount Type
- roof
- Load Capacity
- 130 lbs
- Folding
- Folds down flat
- Vehicle Compatibility
- all rack systems
- Use
- Kayak
- Dimensions
- 32 × 19.6 × 7.1 inches
View on Amazon: Thule Compass Kayak & SUP Roof Rack Affiliate link
The Thule Compass is a J-style roof rack for kayaks and SUPs. It holds one kayak in J-style or saddle mode, two kayaks in stacker mode, or two SUPs in saddle mode. The 130 lb capacity supports boards up to 36 inches wide. It folds flat and weighs 20 pounds. Universal mounting fits all roof rack systems for quick tool-free installation.
Pros
- Holds up to two SUPs or kayaks
- 130 lb weight limit
- Folds down flat for storage
- Universal mounting hardware
Cons
- Limited to one or two watercraft
- 20 pound weight
- Requires roof rack crossbars
Good fit if
- You carry a single kayak or SUP
- You need a compact storage solution
- You want universal mounting compatibility
Skip if
- You need to carry more than two boards
- You do not have roof rack crossbars
- You prefer a trunk-mounted rack
Verdict: Thule Compass J-Style Roof Rack is a versatile option for transporting one or two watercraft. It fits buyers who need a foldable, universal rack for kayaks or SUPs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack | Thule Compass Kayak & SUP Roof Rack |
|---|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 1-2 | not stated |
| Mount Type | Trunk | roof |
| Load Capacity | 70 lbs | 130 lbs |
| Locking | Integrated cable lock | not stated |
| Folding | Folds flat; arms fold down | Folds down flat |
| Vehicle Compatibility | not stated | all rack systems |
| Use | Bike | Kayak |
| Lockable | Lockable | not stated |
| Material | Steel | not stated |
| Dimensions | 23.5 × 18 × 33 inches | 32 × 19.6 × 7.1 inches |
| Weight | 13.7 pounds | 20 pounds |
| Size | 2 bikes | 2 Kayaks/SUPs |
| Color | Black | BLACK |
| Model | 900600 | 890000 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Thule Gateway Pro for kayaks?
No. The Gateway Pro is built specifically for bicycles. It uses hanging-style cradles designed to hold bike frames securely. It is not shaped or equipped to support the hulls of kayaks or SUPs. You need the Compass for watercraft.
Does the Thule Compass fit on a trunk?
No. The Compass is a roof rack system. It is designed to mount on roof rails or crossbars. It cannot attach to a vehicle trunk. The Gateway Pro is the model intended for trunk-mounted bike transport.
How many bikes does the Gateway Pro hold?
It holds two bikes. The Gateway Pro has a capacity for two bicycles. It uses straps and cradles to secure them to the rear of your vehicle. It is not designed to carry more than two bikes at once.
How many kayaks does the Compass hold?
It holds two kayaks or SUPs. The Compass supports up to two watercraft. It uses J-style arms to cradle the hulls on your roof. This makes it suitable for transporting one or two boats simultaneously.
Which is lighter, the Gateway Pro or Compass?
The Gateway Pro is lighter. It weighs 13.7 pounds. The Compass weighs 20 pounds. The difference is 6.3 pounds. You will handle less weight when installing or storing the Gateway Pro compared to the Compass roof rack.
What are the dimensions of the Gateway Pro?
It measures 18 inches wide, 33 inches high, and 23.5 inches long. These dimensions apply when the rack is in its deployed position. The design allows it to fold for compact storage when not in use on your trunk.
What are the dimensions of the Compass?
It measures 19.6 inches wide, 7.1 inches high, and 32 inches long. These dimensions refer to the rack itself. The low height profile helps reduce wind noise and drag while you drive with your kayaks or SUPs on the roof.