Trailer Hitch Mounted 5 Bike Rack Recommendation that Can Hold 2 Childrens Bikes and Adult Bikes

Question:

According to the specs this Thule can only handle something like 178 lbs. if I have 5 family bikes...wont that be greater than the limit on average? Another question...for bikes for my 8 and 6 year old, will the thing fit my kids bike given their size?

asked by: Lance

Expert Reply:

The weight capacity on the Thule Vertex 5, # TH9030XT, is 150 pounds. That would be 30 pounds per bike. The average adult bike weighs about 30 pounds. Provided that the combined weight of all 5 bikes does not exceed this 150 pound limit the rack can handle the weight. The Vertex and Apex, # TH9026, have the highest capacity of any of the 5 bike models we carry, see link.

Regarding the childrens bikes, measure the length of the top frame tubes. If they are greater than 12-3/8 inches, they should fit on the rack. If not, you will need to use an adapter bar like # TH982XT. This also goes for any bike that does not have a top frame tube that goes straight across. I have included a link to a video that shows how the adapter works.

If the combined weight of all the bikes is less than 125 pounds, I recommend the Swagman XP, # S64970. The single arm is much more accommodating to different bike types. As long as the top frame tube is at least 7-3/16 inches long, the kids bikes will fit with no problem. The rotating cradles will keep the bikes level without the use of an adapter. I have included a link to the instructions for this rack for you.

expert reply by: Michael H