Guide to Thule Bike Racks & Cycle Carriers - VanStyle
The days when a van was used purely for the carriage of goods or provision of services are well and truly behind us. Now, many use a van for leisure whether it has been converted as a camper, or perhaps a dual-purpose double cab, a workhorse during the week and used for recreational purposes at the weekend.
Many will use the vehicle to transport bikes, but with space already at a premium, carrying them on the outside of the van is a must. With some cycles costing well into four figures, carrying them securely, without incurring damage and ensuring that the van stays legal without the lights or registration plate being obscured is vital.
There will be a temptation to scour the internet for cheap solutions but, why risk your investment in both your van and your bike with an unknown quantity? By the time you discover the flaws in the design or the lack of quality, it may be too late.
Thule, a company founded in Sweden in 1942 has led the way for many years in the design and supply of top quality bike racks. Some of these are generic but many are tailored to fit a specific vehicle such as a Volkswagen Transporter, the Thule cycle rack fitting perfectly.
A Thule bike rack can carry up to four cycles depending on your requirements and there is a comprehensive range, allowing for the cycles to be safely mounted on the rear of the van.
The Thule Velocompact
Offering an affordable solution to those wanting to carry up to two bikes, the Thule Velocompact 2 is lightweight and easily removable from the vehicle, allowing it to be folded and stowed away when not required. This Thule bicycle rack mounts to the rear of the van and, with its extendable wheel holders is ideal for securing longer wheelbases, such as those found on mountain bikes. It’s designed to fit onto vehicles that have a towbar and with a 13-pin connector and its own lights and number plate mounting area, you’re sure of staying legal at all times. Security is provided by the rack being locked to the vehicle, and the cycles to the rack. If you need additional capacity, there are Thule bike holders in this range designed to carry three or four cycles.
The Thule Easyfold XT 2 Bike Carrier
If you need a rack capable of carrying two cycles weighing up to 30kg each but one that will fold to a footprint of just 31cm x 63cm x 68cm, then the Thule Easyfold XT 2 bike carrier might be just what you are looking for. The rack is supplied pre-assembled, fits straight onto your towball and the integral lighting connects instantly to your existing towbar electric socket. This rack is designed to carry heavier mountain bikes and some e-bikes, and the simplicity, versatility and security offered make it an outstanding proposition for those who want a capable rack but with no fuss.
The Thule Elite Van XT 2 bike carrier
Not everyone has a towbar fitted to their vehicle so, the Thule Elite Van XT 2 bike carrier provides an ideal solution. The carrier is offered in a number of versions, tailored specifically for the likes of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Fiat Ducato and Volkswagen Crafter so that there are no compromises as with some other, more generic offerings. There’s no drilling required, the stylish black frame is mounted to the rear of the van using clamps and adhesive but the design allows the Thule bicycle holder to be removed for storage when not in use. Ensuring that a bike is secured to the rack is clearly vital so there may be a temptation to over-tighten fastenings which could cause damage to the cycle. This Thule bike rack comes with ActTight knob technology. These limit the amount of torque (or tightness) meaning that you are in no danger of damaging your investment. The rack is fully and easily adjustable and locks are provided to ensure the utmost security. Weighing just 9.5kgs the rack itself won’t significantly impact on the vehicle payload or its fuel consumption.
The Thule Wanderway
One of the most popular vans to be used for leisure purposes is the Volkswagen Transporter and so Thule has designed bespoke bike carrying solutions to fit the rear of the van. The Thule Wanderway is available in two, three or four cycle capacities, the bikes being stacked one behind the other. There is no need for a towbar, electrical connections or additional lighting as the vehicle lights and number plate remain unobscured. When not in use the platform folds up against the door, allowing for easy access to the loadspace or rear passenger area. Recognising that the additional weight of the Thule bike holder may be beyond the design capability of the standard hydraulic tailgate struts, kits are offered which include uprated struts which make opening and closing the door easier and without compromising the standard fitment.
The Transporter market is also about blending practical use with stylish good looks, and therefore, the Wanderway is available in either a silver or black finish. It’s also important to note that the Thule Wanderway can only be fitted to tailgate models and do not have a spoiler fitted.
Thule provides peace of mind to its customers with a 2-year guarantee provided on all Thule bike racks. Unlike competitors, the Thule warranty covers any defect or damage, even caused by normal wear and tear or natural discolouration of the materials. When shopping around, this is back-up that needs to be taken into account, especially when looking at generic, unbranded items from unknown suppliers.
Thule thoroughly tests its products prior to them being made available to ensure that they are robust and fit for purpose. At the test centre in Sweden, the racks are subjected to durability tests and exposed to heat sunlight, moisture and even chemicals, ensuring that the customer can use the product with confidence, providing him or her with years of trouble-free service.
If you’ve invested heavily in your vehicle and your bikes, it’s so important not to compromise on the equipment that connects the two. A Thule bike mount will ensure that your cycles are transported safely, legally and securely.
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