Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike vs Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike: Spec Comparison
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This thule gateway pro trunk bike vs proride xt roof bike comparison helps you choose the right carrier for your needs. Both products are Thule bike racks designed for secure transport. The main difference lies in their mounting style and capacity. The Gateway Pro mounts to your trunk and holds up to two bikes. The ProRide XT mounts to your roof and carries one bike. You need to weigh the convenience of trunk mounting against the stability of roof mounting.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack | Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Trunk | Roof |
| Bike Capacity | 1-2 bikes | 1 bike |
| Load Capacity | 70 lbs | 44 lbs |
| Locking | Integrated cable lock | Locks sold separate |
| Weight | 13.7 pounds | 11 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack if
- You need to transport two bikes at once
- You want a rack with a built-in cable lock
- You prefer mounting to your trunk rather than using roof racks
Choose Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack if
- You only need to carry a single bike
- You already have roof rack crossbars installed on your vehicle
- You want a lighter carrier that mounts securely to a roof system
Verdict: Choose the Thule Gateway Pro if you frequently carry two bikes or lack roof rack hardware. Pick the Thule ProRide XT if you have existing roof racks and only transport one bike at a time. Your decision depends on your vehicle setup and how many bikes you need to move.
Thule Gateway Pro vs ProRide XT Specs
Mounting Style
The Thule Gateway Pro mounts to your vehicle trunk using a six-strap tightening system. This requires access to a rear hatch or trunk lid. The Thule ProRide XT mounts to a roof rack system. It attaches to all Thule rack systems and most factory roof racks. You must have a roof rack installed to use the ProRide XT. The Gateway Pro needs no roof rack but requires a flat trunk surface. Your vehicle type dictates which mount is possible for you.
Bike Capacity
The Thule Gateway Pro holds up to two bikes. It features integrated anti-sway cradles and seven inches of spacing between bikes to prevent contact. The Thule ProRide XT holds only one bike. It is a universal upright rack designed for single-bike transport. If you travel with two cyclists, the Gateway Pro carries both simultaneously. If you travel solo, the ProRide XT is sufficient. The capacity difference is significant for group trips versus individual rides.
Load Capacity
The Thule Gateway Pro has a total load capacity of 70 lbs. This supports the weight of two bicycles within that limit. The Thule ProRide XT has a load capacity of 44 lbs. This is the maximum weight for a single bike on the roof. Heavier bikes may exceed the ProRide XT limit. The Gateway Pro allows for more total weight due to its dual capacity. Check your bike weights against these limits to ensure safe transport.
Security Features
The Thule Gateway Pro includes an integrated cable lock. You can lock your bikes to the rack using this built-in feature. The Thule ProRide XT does not include locks. You must purchase locks separately to secure the bike and carrier to the vehicle. The Gateway Pro offers immediate security out of the box. The ProRide XT requires additional purchases for similar security. Consider the cost of separate locks if you choose the roof model.
Dimensions and Weight
The Thule Gateway Pro weighs 13.7 pounds. Its dimensions are 18 inches wide, 33 inches high, and 23.5 inches long. The Thule ProRide XT weighs 11 pounds. It measures 13.5 inches wide, 4 inches high, and 58 inches long. The Gateway Pro is wider and taller but shorter in length. The ProRide XT is longer but much lower profile. The ProRide XT is lighter. The Gateway Pro is bulkier when folded or installed.
Which Thule Bike Rack Suits You
Hauls two bikes without roof rack
The Thule Gateway Pro holds up to two bikes with a 70-pound load capacity. Its trunk mount uses a six-strap system for secure attachment. The integrated cable lock keeps your bikes safe. This option fits vehicles lacking roof racks while carrying extra cargo.
Prefers single bike roof transport
The Thule ProRide XT mounts to roof racks for one bike. It weighs only 11 pounds and measures 58 inches long. The quick-mount dial controls clamping force. Soft claw pads protect your frame. This design keeps your vehicle’s rear access clear for easy loading.
Values compact storage when unused
The Thule Gateway Pro folds up flat for convenient storage. Its 13.7-pound weight makes it manageable. The trunk mount stays out of the way when folded. This feature helps you keep your garage or trunk space organized when you are not transporting any bicycles.
The products compared
Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack
Best for: carrying two bikes on trunk-mounted vehicles
- 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 to carry one or two bicycles. It weighs 13.7 pounds and supports a total load of 70 pounds. The unit uses a six-strap tightening system for secure attachment to your vehicle. It includes integrated anti-sway cradles with seven inches of spacing to prevent bike contact. The rack folds flat for storage and features a tool-free installation process.
Pros
- Folds up flat for compact storage
- Integrated cable lock for security
- Anti-sway cradles with 7 inches of spacing
- Tool-free installation
Cons
- Trunk mount may obstruct rear visibility
- Requires strap tightening on each use
- Limited to 70 pounds total load
Good fit if
- You need to carry two bikes without roof racks
- You want a lightweight rack under 14 pounds
- You prefer tool-free installation
Skip if
- You only have one bike to carry
- You need to carry more than two bikes
- You cannot install straps on your vehicle trunk
Verdict: Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack is a solid option for transporting two bikes on vehicles without roof racks. It fits buyers who need a lightweight, secure carrier that folds flat for easy storage.
Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack
Best for: Single bike roof transport with existing rack
- Bike Capacity
- 1 bike
- Mount Type
- roof
- Load Capacity
- 44 lbs
- Vehicle Compatibility
- all Thule systems, most factory racks
- Size
- One Size
- Dimensions
- 58 × 13.5 × 4 inches
View on Amazon: Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack Affiliate link
This is a universal upright roof bike rack designed for one bicycle. It weighs 11 pounds and supports a load capacity of 44 lbs. The carrier measures 58 inches long and 13.5 inches wide. It features soft claw pads to protect your frame and diagonal quick release straps to stabilize the wheel. It mounts to all Thule rack systems and most factory racks.
Pros
- Universal upright design for one bike
- Soft claw pads minimize frame damage
- Diagonal quick release straps stabilize wheels
- Switches easily from one side to the other
- Mounts to all Thule rack systems
Cons
- Locks are sold separately
- Limited to carrying only one bike
- Requires a roof rack system for installation
Good fit if
- You need to transport a single bicycle on your roof
- You already own a Thule rack system or compatible factory rack
- You want to protect your bike frame with soft claw pads
Skip if
- You need to carry more than one bicycle
- You do not have a roof rack or carrier system
- You require integrated locking mechanisms included with the product
Verdict: Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack is a secure option for single-bike roof transport. It fits drivers who already have a compatible roof rack and value frame protection.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thule Gateway Pro 2-Bike Trunk Rack | Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack |
|---|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 1-2 | 1 bike |
| Mount Type | Trunk | roof |
| Load Capacity | 70 lbs | 44 lbs |
| Locking | Integrated cable lock | not stated |
| Folding | Folds flat; arms fold down | not stated |
| Vehicle Compatibility | not stated | all Thule systems, most factory racks |
| Size | 2 bikes | One Size |
| Use | Bike | Bike |
| Lockable | Lockable | not stated |
| Material | Steel | not stated |
| Dimensions | 23.5 × 18 × 33 inches | 58 × 13.5 × 4 inches |
| Weight | 13.7 pounds | 11 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | 900600 | 598004 |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Thule Gateway Pro hold two bikes at once?
Yes, the Thule Gateway Pro is designed to carry two bikes. Its capacity is listed as two bikes, making it suitable for transporting multiple bicycles without needing a roof rack. This feature allows you to move your cycling gear efficiently using the trunk of your vehicle.
Does the Thule ProRide XT fit any bike frame?
The Thule ProRide XT is labeled as one size, indicating it accommodates a standard range of bike frames. It mounts to your existing roof rack system, allowing you to secure a single bike securely. You should verify that your specific bike frame fits the holder's design before use.
How much does the Thule Gateway Pro weigh?
The Thule Gateway Pro weighs 13.7 pounds. This weight makes it a relatively lightweight option for a trunk-mounted carrier. You can handle and store it easily, as it folds flat for compact storage when not in use on your vehicle.
What are the dimensions of the Thule ProRide XT?
The Thule ProRide XT measures 58 inches in length, 13.5 inches in width, and 4 inches in height. These dimensions help you determine if it fits your roof rack bars securely. The compact height ensures it does not add excessive wind resistance while driving.
Is the Thule Gateway Pro easy to store when not in use?
Yes, the Thule Gateway Pro folds flat for easy storage. This design feature allows you to keep the carrier in your garage or trunk without taking up much space. It is a practical solution for buyers who need a lightweight and secure carrier that does not clutter their home.
Can I use the Thule ProRide XT without a roof rack?
No, the Thule ProRide XT mounts to a roof rack system. It is not designed for trunk or hitch mounting. You must have compatible roof bars or a crossbar system on your vehicle to attach this carrier securely. It is intended for single-bike roof transport.
What is the model number for the Thule Gateway Pro?
The model number for the Thule Gateway Pro is 900600. You can use this identifier to find the correct product page or compare specifications. It helps ensure you are purchasing the exact 2-bike trunk rack variant described in this comparison guide.