What is the Difference Between a Thule Apex 5 and Vertex 5 for a Infiniti
Updated 07/05/2012 | Published 07/02/2012
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Question:
What is the difference in these models, and which would you recommend or would you go with something else entirely? In the past we have used our 4 bike yakima not hitch to carry 2 kids bikes and a trek jogging stroller. But since I am buying a new one - I figured that I should get one that will carry bikes for all 5 of us at this point - 3 adult and 2 kids bikes or the 2 kids bikes and the stroller. Thanks!
asked by: Ruth J
Expert Reply:
The main differences between the Vertex, # TH9030XT, and the Apex, # TH9026, are the type of cradles each has, the cable lock on the Apex, and the anti-rattle function on the Apex.
The Apex features Hold Fast cradles which offer road-dampening technology (RDT) and detachable anti-sway arms. The RDT technology provides 2 Layers of cushioning to absorb road shock and minimize vibration. The upper layer is composed of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a gel-like substance that gently but firmly cups your bike frame and enables the cradles to both absorb road shock and reduce vibration for a smoother ride. The Vertex has cradles that do not have the RDT technology.
The Apex also comes with an integrated cable lock, as you can see in the pictures, to secure the bikes to the rack. The Vertex does not come with a cable lock or a hitch lock. You would need to add those items separately.
The Apex also comes with a built-in anti-rattle device that can be locked with the same key as the cable lock. The Vertex has an anti-rattle device but it is a threaded hitch pin that pulls the shank of the rack tight to the hitch and is not as convenient to use. To lock it, you would need to use the Snug-Tite lock # THSTL2.
The arms are the same distance apart for each, 12-3/8 inches. The top tube of the bike frames must be longer than this for the bikes to fit on. I would not say it is easier to load bikes on one than the other. The Vertex has more clearance to clear the rear bumper because of the anti-rattle knob on the Apex.
To carry womens, childrens, or alternative frame bikes level on the rack you will need to use an adapter, # TH982XT. I have included a link to a video showing how the adapter works.
Either of these racks would work very well for you to carry your adult and children bikes, but since it has not been tested for carrying strollers I can not safely recommend you do so.
