Comparing Malone Pilot and Thule UpRide Roof Mount Bik Racks

Question:

can you tell me the difference from the Malone Pilot roof rack vs the Thule UpRide? I prefer the design of the Malone, how is the quality vs Thule?

asked by: Joe

Expert Reply:

Great questions, Joe!

While the Malone Pilot Trailer Bike Rack # MPG2100 and the Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack # TH599000 do look pretty similar, I can confidently say there is a big difference in quality.

The Malone line of products specializes in functional and lower pricing while Thule has a wide range of bike rack options, with the UpRide being their high-end rack when it comes to quality and ease of use.

We can also see some advantages in the features of the UpRide; it can install via clamps (like the Malone) as well as the T-Slot, and it has a higher weight rating at 44 lbs as opposed to the 33 lb rating of the Malone.

If you're wanting something at a lower price-point without sacrificing the quality then my alternative recommendation is the Yakima FrontLoader # Y02103. This is a wheel mount style like both racks mentioned above, it has a fairly simple installation method with clamps, and the weight rating ranges from 30 lbs - 40 lbs depending on your crossbar spread.

I'm attaching a video I was in for the UpRide as well as a review video of the FrontLoader for your reference.