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Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 5 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
(231 reviews)
Price: $599.95
In Stock
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Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 5 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
In Stock
$599.95
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- Reviews (231)
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Thule Hitch Bike Rack
Highlights
- Carry Up to 5 Bikes: Haul the whole crew with 37.5 lbs per bike and a 150-lb total capacity.
- Keep Bikes Steady: HideAway anti-sway cradles cut rocking and scuffs between frames.
- Reach Cargo Fast: Tilts down (unloaded) so you can grab gear without taking bikes off.
- Pack It Away Easily: Dual folding arms drop with a lever for compact storage when parked.
- Lock Bikes and Rack: Built-in cable and SnugTite hitch locks deter theft with keyed-alike cores.
- Install Without Tools: Hand-tighten knob secures rack and kills hitch rattle in minutes.
Features to know about
Strong Support for the Whole Crew: 5-Bike Capacity, 37.5 lbs Per Bike
When everyone’s ready to ride, you need a rack that can handle it. The Thule Apex XT carries up to five bikes with a total capacity of 150 lbs (37.5 lbs per bike). Dual 28" arms with fixed cradles and HideAway anti-sway mounts keep each bike steady so handlebars and pedals don’t clash. The arms slope upward for extra ground clearance, giving you a smooth, stable setup even when loaded with a full family’s worth of bikes.
Simple Access When You Need It: Tilts Down for Cargo Reach
Grabbing gear from the back shouldn’t mean unloading bikes. The Apex XT tilts down when bikes are removed, letting you open the cargo area with ease. A HitchSwitch lever at the base drops the mast, and another at the top folds the arms when you’re done riding. With the rack folded, the footprint shrinks to just 16" from the hitch pin hole, so it’s easy to keep installed while you park or store.
Quick Setup, No Tools Required: SnugTite System with 1-1/4" and 2" Hitch Fit
Installation is fast and clean thanks to the tool-free SnugTite system. Slide the shank into your hitch, turn the lockable hand knob, and the internal wedge tightens against the receiver to eliminate rattle and sway. A removable sleeve converts the shank to fit either 1-1/4" or 2" hitches, so you can move the rack between setups without extra parts or tools.
Built-In Security for Bikes and Rack: One-Key System Locks
Peace of mind comes standard. The Apex XT includes keyed-alike locks that secure both the rack and your bikes. The integrated cable lock pulls from the arm, loops through the bike frames, and stows neatly inside the mast when not in use. Once the hand knob is locked, it spins freely, keeping the rack firmly attached and discouraging tampering.
Smart Design Details: Folding Cradles and Cable-Friendly Channels
Every detail works toward protection and ease of use. The soft rubber cradles flex to fit different frame shapes, with grooves that route brake and shifter cables so nothing gets pinched. Lower straps fold away for smoother bike loading, and the 13" spacing between the outer cradles gives enough room for multiple bikes without crowding. The black powder coated steel frame resists rust and stays looking sharp season after season.
Specs
Application
- Application: 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" and 2" x 2" trailer hitch receivers
Weight and Capacity
- Carrying capacity: 5 bikes
- Weight capacity (per bike): 37.5 lbs
Dimensions
- Length of arms: 28"
- Distance between arms: Outside cradle to outside cradle: 13"
- Distance between arms: Inside cradle to inside cradle: 6-1/2"
Distance From Hitch Pin Hole
- To closest edge of carrier: 7-1/4"
- To farthest edge of carrier: 43-1/4"
- To farthest edge of carrier with arms folded down: 16"
Weight
- Carrier weight: 35 lbs
Warranty
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Note
- Note: The distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the face of the hitch must be 1-1/2" or greater to use this rack.
9026XT Thule Apex XT 5 Bike Hanging Style Bike Rack for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Steel - Tilting
Replaces Thule 9026
Item # TH9026XT
Installation Details
Customer Satisfaction Score:
93% were satisfied with this product
7% of customers were not satisfied
- Arrived Damaged
- Product did not meet expectations
Ratings & Reviews
4.6
231 reviews
by:
Pablo
03/10/2025
Great quality materials as usual from Thule. However, it is difficult to get 5 bicycles close together enough to fit on the rack. If you don’t mind contact between your bikes then you can make it work. Very tight squeeze though.
by:
Ryan
06/15/2020
etrailer customer service is top notch! Matt K saved my vacation trip when my original rack was back ordered. He helped me and walked through the options. I landed on this Thule rack and Matt helped fast track the rack, hitch, and cross bars in time for my families vacation. I had 4 bikes on this rack for its maiden voyage 10+ hours to the beach one way. My little guys bike is just plain to small for the rack but it fit my mountain bike, road bike (carbon), my wife’s road bike, and my daughters mountain bike no problems. Because of the long trip I took the pedals off to make my life easier but they fit with pedals too. Also cross bars are a must for odd frames like kids bikes and mountain bikes etc.
I’m super happy with how easy the rack is to throw on and off and having no issues after 10 + hours of hwy drive time is a testament to the Thule brand. (Note all my other racks were Yakima before this one, I really like the Thule rack)
Thanks again Matt! And the etrailer team, you will be my first stop for future needs. P.S. I never usually leave reviews, but these guys are good to go!
I’m super happy with how easy the rack is to throw on and off and having no issues after 10 + hours of hwy drive time is a testament to the Thule brand. (Note all my other racks were Yakima before this one, I really like the Thule rack)
Thanks again Matt! And the etrailer team, you will be my first stop for future needs. P.S. I never usually leave reviews, but these guys are good to go!
by:
Eric
05/28/2024
Very nice bike rack. I had previously used the Lets Go Aero BikeWing T4 but needed room for a 5th bike. This rack is much easier to install on the car, and easier to load. Getting 5 bikes to fit is still a big puzzle, but possible. It's been sturdy on long drives, and I've really appreciated the tightening mechanism on the hitch and the built-in lock.
by:
Brian M
08/06/2020
I called the Etrailer to place an order and spoke with Dena W, who was very helpful letting me know the part is on backorder but will ship soon as it’s available and two weeks later I received the Thule Apex xt5 bike rack. Dena also helped out with getting the Thule bike adapters which I need it for certain bikes. Very pleased thanks to Dena!
by:
Michael
03/10/2024
It is a good rack. Virtually no rattling full or not. I do not have any sideways photos. But, I do not see how you could get five adult mountain bikes on here. If you had a couple of more inches it won't be a problem. I would still recommend since it does tilt away from the car and locks to the hitch.
by:
Donald
06/21/2020
Thule bike was a perfect fit on the hitch purchased together from etrailer. Install was easy if you are used to reading Swedish instructions. I can’t wait to take it on a family trip this summer.
by:
Neesha
06/06/2022
Love my new bike rack. It’s neat and sleek. It’s super solid and I can tell it will be able to hold a decent amount of weight. Excited to use if!
by:
Luke
06/01/2026
Speedy delivery, great prod
by:
Joel
05/14/2020
I initially purchased a 4 bike platform rack (it was a different brand than Thule), but unfortunately there were defects and I couldn't use it. etrailer.com was excellent about returning it for a refund. I would definitely use etrailer.com again for the great customer service. After a lot of additional research, I decided to purchase the Thule Apex XT 5 bike hanging rack. I needed something that could hold 5 bikes. Here are my thoughts:
The Thule Apex XT arrived in one box and did not require many parts to assemble, so assembly was super quick and easy. However, the instructions are pictures only and my only minor issue was the key locks/plugs were not explained very well in the instructions. You have to use a control key to insert and keep the lock where it is supposed to go, and then you can use the locking keys that actually lock/unlock it afterward. Once that was clear, it was pretty much assembled.
Compared to the platform rack, this hanging rack takes up much less space, is lighter, and easier to hook up to your hitch. The assembly was much easier/quicker also.
I liked the simplicity of this rack. It fits either 1.25 or 2 inch hitches and the knob used to tighten the rack in the hitch is excellent. No tools were required. Just turn the knob and it expands the rack inside the hitch to fully tighten it and eliminate wiggle/rattle. There is a bar on the side of the rack that snaps into the hole in the side of your hitch for additional security. I have a 2 inch hitch and so didn't have to adjust anything, however if you have a 1.25 inch hitch, you'll have to slightly modify the rack first, which is covered in the instructions. I tried to wiggle the rack after fully tightening it and it felt very solid. Then you can use the key to lock the knob and after that the knob will just turn, but not actually loosen the rack. I thought this built in security feature was great.
The rack can be tilted or lowered away from your vehicle by simply using one lever near the base of the rack. Again, super simple and easy to use. You can't lower the rack away from the vehicle if the bikes are on it, unlike some platform racks, but that is something I'm willing to live with for the smaller size and ease of use for this rack.
The hanging arms are super easy to raise/lower by using one lever on the top of the rack. Inserting the straps to secure the bikes was also very easy. Each bike is secured by 3 straps. The rack has a built in cable to lock your bikes to the rack, which uses the same key. I really like that feature as well. When not in use the cable slides inside the main body of the rack.
I tested this rack with a men's fat tire bike and it fit great. You will likely need an adaptor bar if you have kids bikes or step-through bikes, etc. and plan on using all 5 spots. I also tested it with a kids bike and was able to get it on the rack fine, but the issue without having an adaptor bar for these smaller frames, is that it raises the rear tire higher than normal, which would then bump into the handle-bars from the previous bike on the rack---making them not fit. So, prepare for that, but there are plenty of adaptor bars out there for reasonable prices and the overall total cost will still be less than most platform racks.
After assembling a large 4 bike platform rack (at least until I ran into the defects), this hanging rack really impressed me with it's small, easy to use size and simplicity. These are not recommended for carbon frame bikes, but if you want something for non-carbon frame bikes that could actually hold enough bikes for the whole family, this is a great option. It also takes up a fraction of the space in your garage that the platform rack would. If all you have are carbon frame bikes, or only need a 2 bike rack, then I'd go with a platform rack. I plan on using this for family bike trips when I'm not using my carbon frame bike and when I need to be able to hold all 5 bikes. My garage space was also very limited, so this rack solved that problem as well.
I will have to add to my review after using it for much longer since it is brand new, but so far looks and feels like it will last a long time. I'm very happy with this purchase and would recommend it to others.
The Thule Apex XT arrived in one box and did not require many parts to assemble, so assembly was super quick and easy. However, the instructions are pictures only and my only minor issue was the key locks/plugs were not explained very well in the instructions. You have to use a control key to insert and keep the lock where it is supposed to go, and then you can use the locking keys that actually lock/unlock it afterward. Once that was clear, it was pretty much assembled.
Compared to the platform rack, this hanging rack takes up much less space, is lighter, and easier to hook up to your hitch. The assembly was much easier/quicker also.
I liked the simplicity of this rack. It fits either 1.25 or 2 inch hitches and the knob used to tighten the rack in the hitch is excellent. No tools were required. Just turn the knob and it expands the rack inside the hitch to fully tighten it and eliminate wiggle/rattle. There is a bar on the side of the rack that snaps into the hole in the side of your hitch for additional security. I have a 2 inch hitch and so didn't have to adjust anything, however if you have a 1.25 inch hitch, you'll have to slightly modify the rack first, which is covered in the instructions. I tried to wiggle the rack after fully tightening it and it felt very solid. Then you can use the key to lock the knob and after that the knob will just turn, but not actually loosen the rack. I thought this built in security feature was great.
The rack can be tilted or lowered away from your vehicle by simply using one lever near the base of the rack. Again, super simple and easy to use. You can't lower the rack away from the vehicle if the bikes are on it, unlike some platform racks, but that is something I'm willing to live with for the smaller size and ease of use for this rack.
The hanging arms are super easy to raise/lower by using one lever on the top of the rack. Inserting the straps to secure the bikes was also very easy. Each bike is secured by 3 straps. The rack has a built in cable to lock your bikes to the rack, which uses the same key. I really like that feature as well. When not in use the cable slides inside the main body of the rack.
I tested this rack with a men's fat tire bike and it fit great. You will likely need an adaptor bar if you have kids bikes or step-through bikes, etc. and plan on using all 5 spots. I also tested it with a kids bike and was able to get it on the rack fine, but the issue without having an adaptor bar for these smaller frames, is that it raises the rear tire higher than normal, which would then bump into the handle-bars from the previous bike on the rack---making them not fit. So, prepare for that, but there are plenty of adaptor bars out there for reasonable prices and the overall total cost will still be less than most platform racks.
After assembling a large 4 bike platform rack (at least until I ran into the defects), this hanging rack really impressed me with it's small, easy to use size and simplicity. These are not recommended for carbon frame bikes, but if you want something for non-carbon frame bikes that could actually hold enough bikes for the whole family, this is a great option. It also takes up a fraction of the space in your garage that the platform rack would. If all you have are carbon frame bikes, or only need a 2 bike rack, then I'd go with a platform rack. I plan on using this for family bike trips when I'm not using my carbon frame bike and when I need to be able to hold all 5 bikes. My garage space was also very limited, so this rack solved that problem as well.
I will have to add to my review after using it for much longer since it is brand new, but so far looks and feels like it will last a long time. I'm very happy with this purchase and would recommend it to others.
by:
Kevin
08/02/2020
This is my first purchased from etrailer and I was happy with the transaction. Customer service and price matching guarantee was a great experience.
The Thule Apex 5 bike rack was easy to install. It appears firm but I did have to re-tighten a few times to ensure no movements. My only complaint are those zip tie straps holding down the bike. These straps appear cheap and will probably diminish in time in the sun. The zip tie straps are a pain to use; they can hurt your fingers.
This rack is also not kid bike friendly. The kid bike frames are too smaller and will not fit onto the rack.
The Thule Apex 5 bike rack was easy to install. It appears firm but I did have to re-tighten a few times to ensure no movements. My only complaint are those zip tie straps holding down the bike. These straps appear cheap and will probably diminish in time in the sun. The zip tie straps are a pain to use; they can hurt your fingers.
This rack is also not kid bike friendly. The kid bike frames are too smaller and will not fit onto the rack.
by:
Crystal
06/29/2021
Set up & installation is easy, heavy but easy. Loading & unloading bikes is not easy or quick. I'm not sure I will ever be able to fit 5 bikes, I just don't see how it's possible. Brake lines get snagged & pulled every single time coming on & off the rack. Kids bikes do not fit. The zip buckles that hold the bike in place are often impossible, they have to be in just the right place or you might not get them off when it's time to unload. I would recommend this to someone who only has large framed adult bikes & doesn't need to carry 5 at a time.
by:
Mariela
06/29/2020
Great place to order from! If your order is not in stock at the time you order they don’t charge you until your order has shipped. Great customer service, I called with a few questions and they were answered quickly! Our Thule bike rack is awesome and very easy to use. It’s tough fitting all five bikes on but not impossible. Overall, great purchase and great company to buy from!
by:
Farhad
05/31/2021
It rattles and moves too much on the drive. It was advertised as a two inch Hitch connection but came as a 1.5 inch with adaptor. Seems to be a much less stiffer main connection and may well have something to do with that. All other components seem fine and we’ll built.
Brooke M.
6/4/2021
Thank you for your review! This is a higher-end rack that does come with anti-rattle and so most of the time when someone is having trouble getting the bike rack to sit, they probably havent moved the rack around a little while tightening the anti-rattle. When bike rack anti-rattle devices are tightened properly you can actually move the backend of a vehicle around by shaking the bike rack. A good example of seeing how the rack should fit snuggly is in this video, starting at the 5.20 minute mark.
Helpful Links
by:
Paulina
07/15/2020
Thule Apex XT 5 Bike Rack for 2" Hitches - Tilting
we love it! Perfectly fits our 4 bikes.
Easy to install!
we love it! Perfectly fits our 4 bikes.
Easy to install!
by:
Nancy
05/10/2021
It is easy to attach the rack to our hitch and it quite sturdy. It is also easy to secure the bikes to the rack and the bikes remain very stable while driving when they are strapped in.
by:
Steven
06/27/2021
The rack is sturdy but I find the straps difficult to open up once put in place around the frame. You need to leave a bit of slack on the strap in order to undo it.
by:
Joe
04/10/2021
I haven’t had experience with other brands and was between this and Yakima full tilt. Asking around local shops got the sense that Thule wins. I got it all together in about 20 minutes, and looks great. I mounted a couple bikes and it was more stable than I expected. Seems like it will hole up well and is flexible for the future. Very happy so far.
by:
Patricia
04/03/2022
Quick shipping, Love our bike rack
by:
Deborann
01/16/2022
JJ W did a wonderful job helping me chose the hitch that would go well with my son's vehicle and that would work the best. My son said it works well and is easy to install. Thank you JJ W
by:
Gary
07/01/2020
The notifications were great, after ordering and the price was awesome. The only reason it is not 5-stars is that I was not aware the item was not in stock at the time of purchase. Due to COVID, I cannot complain and will definitely use e-trailer in the future.
by:
Harold
04/14/2021
Product is very good. Directions could be a little clearer, but the rack is great for multiple bikes.
by:
d
08/27/2021
I hate this rack. They must have moved the 4 bike rack mounts closer together because either the bikes beat each other the whole way or you spend an hour loading it with 4 or 5 bikes. If you like repairing spokes, cables, shifters, etc., This is the rack for you! Has cost me so much time and I don't want to take bikes with us anymore. Find another product or just skip to going without.
Sierra K.
9/2/2021
I apologize for the issues your bike rack is causing you. First, as you probably know, bigger and heavier bikes should go on first, while smaller or lighter bikes should go on last, towards the front. Some may need adapter bars, if they are childrens or step through bikes. To make your bike rack less bouncy, you may need a stabilizing strap that comes off your vehicles trunk: part # 18050. Also, strapping your bike wheels together will keep them from banging up against each other: part # SA3033. Additionally, if you want to keep your bikes in tip-top condition, a platform rack is most appropriate. I do not know what size hitch you have since the rack you purchased fits both 1.25 and 2 inch. The downside to 1.25 platform racks is, because its a heavier rack, there are only 2 bike option carriers available like: part # C18085. If you have a 2 inch receiver, then you have more options in the link below:
Helpful Links
by:
David
12/17/2020
I have placed several order with etrailer. Excellent Service as always.
by:
Patricia
07/06/2020
Great customer service and product.
by:
Jocelyn
07/04/2020
Very sturdy and a great price. The shipping was delayed but I know most companies are right now with COVID. I love that we can carry 5 bikes since that is the size of our family.
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view full answer... - Can the Thule Apex XT Bike Rack Carry a 50 lb E-BikeWhile the Thule Apex XT 5 Bike Rack # TH9026XT does have a weight capacity of 150 lbs, this is for when it is fully loaded to 4 or 5 bikes (30 lbs - 35 lbs per bike). The individual cradles won't be able to handle a 50 lb bike so we'll need to find an alternative to transport your E-Bike. An alternative option from Yakima is the HoldUp 2 Bike Rack # Y02443 which can carry up to 2 bikes weighing 60 lbs each. If you need to carry more bikes the you can then use the Plus 2 2-Bike Add-On #...
view full answer... - Comparing Thule Apex XT 4-Bike and 5-Bike RacksIf you only plan on ever carrying 4 bikes and you're looking for ease of use then the Thule Apex XT 4-Bike Rack # TH9025XT is the better option. It has 28" arms and the cradles are spaced 7" apart which should allow you to load up all 4 Trek bikes just fine. The 5-Bike Apex XT # TH9026XT also has 28" long arms so the cradles are 5-1/2" apart which is the more traditional spacing, but it will make loading up your bikes a little more of a hassle. Your only real benefit of the 5-Bike version...
view full answer... - How to Measure Hitch Bike Rack Sizes to Determine Which Hitch is NeededThe 1-1/4 and 2 inch sizes you see refer to the hitch receiver opening. If you have the rack, measure the shank at the bottom of the rack. If it measures 2 X 2 inches, then you will need a Class III or higher 2 inch receiver. If it measures 1-1/4 X 1-1/4 inches, you will need to determine whether or not it will fit a Class I or Class II hitch. There are stops welded inside Class I hitches to prevent use of Class II accessories that can overload a Class I hitch. I have added a link below...
view full answer... - How to Use Apex XT Bike Rack to Carry Roll Low-Entry Step-Thru BikeYou can transport your Roll Low-Entry bike on a Thule Apex XT (or older Apex) hanging style bike rack using the Thule Bike Adapter Bar # TH982XT. This hooks around your seat post and handlebar stem post to give your bike a horizontal top tube that is needed for this style of bike rack. This will work whether you have the 2-Bike # TH9024XT, 4-Bike # TH9025XT, 4-Bike Swinging # TH9027XT, or 5-Bike # TH9026XT version of the XT (along with many other bike rack options).
view full answer... - 4 or 5 Bike Rack Recommendation on 2015 Honda OdysseyFor your 2015 Honda Odyssey, I'd recommend a 5 bike hitch mounted rack so the entire family has the option to play together. If you don't have a trailer hitch, I'd recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Round Tube, # 75270, for your vehicle. I've attached a video for your reference. A great choice for your bike rack would be the Thule Apex XT 5 Bike Rack, # TH9026XT. It will fit a 1-1/4 or a 2 inch hitch and has some great options to make it easy to use. It has anti-sway cradles...
view full answer... - 5 Bike Rack Recommendation for Carrying 3 Adult and 2 Kid Bikes on 2019 Honda Pilot For your 2019 Honda Pilot with a 2" hitch receiver, we have a few different 5-bike rack options available. I recommend the Hollywood Racks Road Runner 5 Bike Carrier # HR520 because it's going to offer the most stability and security for your bikes. The rack has a unique anti-sway bar at the bottom and anti-sway cradles at the top that stabilize your bikes better than any other rack on the list. It also features an easy to-access anti-rattle handle, tilting mast and already includes a...
view full answer... - What Would Cause Anti-Rattle Knob of Thule Apex to Spin FreelySounds like the anti-rattle knob of your Thule Apex part # TH9026XT isn't locked and it is basically spinning freely. Once you get the lock core you ordered in and you lock the knob you'll be able to tighten it down.
view full answer... - How to Reduce a Bouncing Bike Rack Installed on a 2004 Nissan QuestHaving a bike rack, loaded or unloaded, bounce some is common but there are measures you can take to reduce the movement of the rack. The issue is that the shank on a bike rack has to be slightly smaller than the receiver opening for it to fit correctly so there will always be some play. Some racks come with an anti-rattle device that usually takes the form of a threaded bolt uses to pull the shank of the bike rack tight to the side of the receiver to reduce or eliminate the movement in...
view full answer... - 5-Bike Hitch Rack with Capacity for More Than 150-lbsThe Thule Apex XT 5 Bike Rack # TH9026XT does have a 150-lb total bike weight limit which is not quite enough for your 5 bikes' combined weight of about 167-lbs. Most hitch racks top out at this same 150-lbs. But the Curt Premium 5 Bike Rack # C18065 stands apart with its 225-lb total weight capacity. The Curt Premium 5 features dual folding arms that taper, which lets them fit more types and sizes of bike frames, reducing the need for adapter bars like # UB01. And the mast tilts for...
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Used Items Available
Condition: Like New
Notes: May have damaged packaging or minor cosmetic blemishes.
Info for this part was:
Expert Research:
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Video by:
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Video Edited:
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Video Edited:
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Colin H
Test Fit:
Randy B
Test Fit:
Ryan G
Test Fit:
Adam E
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Victoria H.
3/11/2025
I see what you're saying Pablo, that is quite the squeeze. I'm glad you were able to make it fit your needs, and enjoy some riding together as a family.