Will a 2006 Specialized Hard Rock Sport Bike Fit on the Thule Parkway 2 Bike Rack

Question:

I have an 06 Specialized Hard Rock Sport and I would like to know if the cradle straps that are supplied w/ the Thule Parkway 958 hitch mount bike carrier are long enough to strap the bike in place?, since the frame is thicker than a standard frame bicycle. If the straps aren’t long enough, is there any way to purchase replacement straps that will work with the thicker frame? Thanks in advance for any assistance you can provide...

asked by: Sir A

Expert Reply:

The Thule Parkway 2 Bike Rack, # TH958, can accommodate bike frames up to 2 inches in diameter. I am not sure how wide the frame is on your 2006 Specialized Hard Rock Sport, but if it is 2 inches or less, then it will fit on this bike rack.

If you find that your bike frame is larger than 2 inches, then you may want to look at either the Swagman Trailhead 2 Bike Rack, # S63360, or the Swagman XTC-2 Platform Bike Rack, # S64670.

The Trailhead bike rack is similar to the Thule Parkway, but it will accommodate bike frames up to 3 inches in diameter and it features anti-sway cradles to reduce movement of your bike on the bike rack. I have attached the installation instructions for this bike rack for you to check out.

Another popular bike rack is the XTC-2 platform rack. This bike rack is one of our most popular hitch mounted bike racks and will accommodate any size bicycle frames. You simply mount the wheels into the wheel hoops and secure the bike with the ratcheting hooks that are padded to protect your bike frame. I have attached the installation instructions and a review video of this bike rack for you to check out.

Another option that you could look into is an adapter bar like the Swagman Easy-Out Adapter Bar, # 64005. The adapter bar will clip on to the seat post just below the seat and to the handlebar post. This adapter bar will allow you to mount your bike on almost any hanging-style bike rack cradle. I have attached a review video of this adapter bar for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: John H