Determining how many bikes you can fit on a used Thule bike rack depends on the type and model of the rack.
While bike racks are designed to hold a certain number of bikes, there are tricks to potentially fit additional bikes with some clever positioning and space-saving techniques.
Hitch Racks
Hitch racks are one of the most popular styles of bike racks that attach to a trailer hitch on your vehicle.
Most standard hitch racks hold between 2-4 bikes on a rack-mounted platform. High-end Thule hitch racks like the T2 Pro XT can hold up to 4 bikes, while more affordable options like the Thule Apex XT hold 2 bikes.
With clever positioning, some hitch racks may be able to fit one additional smaller bike like a kid's bike or BMX bike.
Angle the bikes in a zigzag pattern to save space between the handlebars. You may also be able to fit an extra bike if you remove the front wheels and place the bikes very close together.
Trunk Racks
Trunk racks attach to the rear of your vehicle with straps or pads that sit on the trunk or hatchback.
Most trunk racks hold between 2-3 bikes on parallel arms that extend from the vehicle.
Premium Thule trunk racks like the Raceway Pro hold up to 3 bikes, while more basic options hold 2.
Like hitch racks, you may be able to angle the bike frames in a zigzag pattern to squeeze an additional smaller bike on the rack.
Some trunk racks also offer "add-on" sections to extend the rack to hold up to 4 bikes.
Roof Racks
Roof racks attach to factory or aftermarket roof rack systems. Most standard roof bike racks hold between 2-4 bikes on parallel trays or cradles.
Higher-end Thule roof racks like the Thule ProRide XT can fit up to 4 bikes, while cheaper options like the Thule Circuit XT hold 2 bikes.
Since roof racks don't have vehicles blocking access, you can get very creative with bike positioning.
Try alternating bike orientations front-to-back and turning handlebars sideways to fit up to 6 bikes on some roof racks. You can also use fork mount roof racks to stack bikes vertically.
Tips for Maximizing Bike Capacity
Here are some useful tips to maximize the number of bikes you can fit on a rack:
Alternate bike orientations - Turn bikes front-to-back and side-to-side
Angle frames - Position bikes in a zigzag pattern with angled frames
Remove front wheels - Take off the front wheels to stack bikes closer
Use roof racks - Roof racks offer more positioning flexibility
Add accessories - Use add-ons and extensions to expand capacity
Use bungee cords - Secure bikes tightly together with bungees
Go electric - Electric bikes take up less space without top tubes
With some creativity and planning, you can often safely fit more bikes on a rack than the stated capacity.
Always be sure to check that bikes are securely fastened and do not interfere with lights or license plates. And drive slowly and cautiously when your rack is maxed out!
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