Tips to Install a Thule Bike Carrier

Thule creates various designs of car racks to enable you to easily transport your mountain bike or road cycle. According to Thule, avid outdoorsman Eric Thulin established the Thule company in the early 1940s. Thule began as a Swedish-based corporation that specialized in fishing gear. Thule did not produce bicycle racks until the 1960s. The bike racks from Thule have been built to accommodate the different styles of vehicles. Following a few simple tips will guarantee that your bike remains fastened to the Thule rack.

  1. Roof Racks

    • The Thule roof racks remain one of the most versatile designs as it can fit on various types of vehicles including cars, SUVs and minivans. Make sure that your vehicle has some sort of basic roof railing system before attempting to install your new Thule roof rack. After installing your 594XT Sidearm roof rack, make sure to tighten the securing bolts located under the rack. According to Thule, the 594XT roof rack features a front hook that helps to secure your bicycle in place. When tightening the hook to the front your bike, make sure that the hook has been placed around your front tire. Improper placement may cause damage to the frame of your bike. Place the rear safety strap through the spoke of your back tire. Check to make sure the strap has fastened your back tire in place before starting your car.

    Rear Car Racks

    • The rear car racks from Thule allow you to easily remove your bike when you reach your cycling destination. Thule offers rear racks that can safely carry up to five bicycles. Thule creates two standard designs of the rear car rack. The first, known as the hitch rack, fastens into the rear hitch of your minivan or SUV. When fastening your hitch rack in place, make sure that the rack does not make contact with the body of your vehicle. Stabilize your hitch rack by resting the corresponding arm against your rear windshield. According to Thule, the second design of the rear rack, known as the trunk rack, remains ideal for coupes and sedans. Make sure to place the bottom arm onto the top of your trunk during the installation process. Examine the safety straps of your trunk to ensure they have been properly tightened.

    Truck Racks

    • Thule offers specialized bike carriers designed for the bed of your truck. The truck racks from Thule have the capability of carrying just one bike. The truck bed racks do not require drilling or bolting. Open your tailgate to initiate the installation process. According to Thule, when fastening the safety hook of your truck rack, make sure you place it behind the fork of your front tire. Close your tailgate to lock your Thule truck bed bike carrier in place.