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Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ LEDs for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel or Frame Mount
Thule

Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ LEDs for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel or Frame Mount

Part Number: TH49XE
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$1,249.95
Hitch Bike Racks
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This 2-bike rack with tail lights is perfect for carrying bikes of nearly any style, including heavy electric bikes with fenders. Integrated wheels let you roll the rack, so you don't have to carry it to your vehicle. Tilts with bikes loaded. 1-800-940-8924 to order Thule hitch bike racks part number TH49XE or order online at etrailer.com. Free expert support on all Thule products. Great prices and Fastest Shipping for Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ LEDs for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel or Frame Mount. Hitch Bike Racks reviews from real customers.
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  • Reviews (19)
  • Q & A (0)
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Thule Hitch Bike Racks - TH49XE

  • Platform Rack
  • 2 Bikes
  • Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
  • Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
  • Fits 2 Inch Hitch
  • Folding Rack
  • Tilt-Away Rack
  • Frame Mount
  • Wheel Mount
  • Thule
  • Class 1
  • Class 2
  • Class 3
  • Bike and Hitch Lock

This 2-bike rack with tail lights is perfect for carrying bikes of nearly any style, including heavy electric bikes with fenders. Integrated wheels let you roll the rack, so you don't have to carry it to your vehicle. Tilts with bikes loaded.


Features:

  • Platform bike rack carries 2 bikes using your vehicle's hitch receiver
  • Telescoping masts have rotating heads with ratchet straps that grip your bikes' rear wheels or frames
  • Pivoting wheel straps let you carry bikes with different wheelbases
    • Adapters (sold separately) accommodate bikes with fat tires
  • LED tail lights and license plate holder increase safety and visibility
    • 4-Way flat trailer plug connects to your vehicle's 4-way connector
  • Front-mounted foot pedal lets you tilt the rack with ease
    • Tilts down with bikes loaded to access cargo area
  • Rack folds up for easy transport and compact storage
    • Integrated wheels and handle let you roll rack to your vehicle
  • Tool-free installation with hand-tightening lever
    • Tightens rack inside your hitch to reduce movement and noise
    • Removable adapter sleeve converts the rack for use with 1-1/4" hitches
  • One-Key System locks deter theft of your bikes and the rack
    • ABUS cable lock (sold separately) provides extra security for your bikes
  • Aluminum ramp (sold separately) helps you load heavy bikes
  • Durable aluminum and ABS construction with black powder coat is corrosion resistant


Specs:

  • Application: 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" and 2" x 2" trailer hitch receivers
  • Carrying capacity: 2 bikes
  • Weight capacity: 140 lbs
    • Weight capacity (for 1 bike): 75 lbs
  • Maximum tire width: 3-3/16"
  • Maximum wheelbase: 53-1/8"
  • Distance between bikes: 9-13/16"
  • Dimensions: 27-3/16" long x 49-5/8" wide x 8-11/16 tall
  • Dimensions when folded: 27-3/16" tall x 10-5/8" wide x 29-1/2" deep
  • Distance from center of hitch pin hole to:
    • Nearest edge of carrier: 6"
    • Farthest edge of carrier: 33"
  • Carrier weight: 40.8 lbs
  • Limited lifetime warranty


Thule EasyFold XT 4-Bike Hanging-Style Rack Locking Cable

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.


Approved for use on cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs - not approved for fifth wheels, motorhomes, towable campers, or flat-towed vehicles

Rear Wheel or Frame Mount

Thule Epos wheel mount clampsThule Epos frame mount clamps

The Thule Epos has telescoping masts with padded, rotating heads and ratcheting straps that grab your bikes firmly by the rear wheels or by the frames. This makes the rack perfect for carrying bikes with a carbon frame or custom paint job, bikes with fenders, and bikes with nearly any other frame style. To load a bike, lift it up onto the tray, wrap the mast strap around the rear wheel or the frame, and use the built-in lever to ratchet the strap tight.


Thule Epos sliding straps

The wheel trays have ratcheting straps to secure your front and rear wheels to the rack. The straps pivot to accommodate bikes with a variety of wheelbases. To secure your wheels, run the straps over each rim and back down through the strap buckles and use the levers to ratchet the straps tight. To remove your bike, press the ratchet levers to release the tray straps, then press the lever on the mast head to release the mast strap.


Thule Epos keepersThule Epos keepers

Keepers on the masts and on the trays prevent the straps from getting in your way while loading your bikes.


Grooved Wheel Trays

Thule Epos front wheel cradles

The Epos doesn't have cradles for the wheels like most platform-style bike racks. Instead, it has wheel trays that allow you to position your bikes on the rack exactly where you want them, not where the cradles dictate you place them. This helps prevent your handlebars and other bike parts from bumping into each other. Additionally, the trays have grooves in the tracks that accommodate narrow 18c road bike tires up to 3-3/16" tires. And, if you have a fat bike, straps (sold separately) that fit larger tires are available.


Spring-Loaded Foot Pedal for Easy Tilting

Thule Epos Tilting

The rack tilts down with your bikes loaded. So, whether you're at the trail or the grocery store, you don't have to remove your bikes to access your cargo area.


Thule Epos rear wheel cradle

To make tilting easier, the foot pedal is mounted on the front of the rack. This means you won't have to reach through or around your bikes with one hand to access a lever, while supporting the rack's weight with the other, when lowering the rack. Instead, you'll be able to hold the rack with both hands the entire time.


Thule Epos folded up

The trays and the shank fold up and the masts telescope down when not in use, so the rack doesn't take up as much space to store. Additionally, integrated wheels and a handle make the rack easy to roll to and from your vehicle.


Built-In Tail Lights and License Plate Holder

Thule Epos brake lights

To keep you visible and safe, the Epos has built-in LED running lights, brake lights, and turn signals. The lights are powered via the wiring harness that plugs into your vehicle's existing 4-way connector. The lights are visible whether the rack is in use or in the stowed position.


The holder keeps your license plate in full view so you can avoid costly tickets while traveling. It also has an integrated light, so your plate will be illuminated at night.


Tool-Free Installation

Thule Epos InstallationThule Epos Installation

The rack quickly installs in your hitch receiver, without the need for tools. Open the SnugTite hitch pin, slide the shank into your receiver, close the pin so it slides through the pin hole and shank, then crank the lever until snug. Rotating the lever deploys an anti-rattle wedge in the shank to help take play out of the hitch connection.


Thule Epos folded up

You can install the rack in a 1-1/4" hitch or in a 2" hitch. To use it in a 1-1/4" hitch, simply remove the adapter with the included Allen key.


Complete Security for Bikes and Rack

Thule Epos Locks

The Epos includes One-Key System locks to secure your bikes to the rack and the rack to your vehicle. Locks on the head of the telescoping masts prevent the ratchet straps from releasing.


Thule Epos Lever Lock

The lock on the lever secures the rack to your vehicle. The lever can't be pulled out when locked, so a would-be thief can't operate it to remove the rack from your hitch. The locks are keyed alike so you can use the same keys for all the locks. Additional One-Key System locks (sold separately) let you make all your Thule products keyed alike.


Available Accessories

Thule Epos Ramp

An aluminum ramp (sold separately) lets you roll your heavy e-bikes on and off the rack, with no heavy lifting required.


Thule Epos Cable Lock

The ABUS cable lock (sold separately) adds a second layer of security for your bikes.



903211 Thule Epos Platform Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4 Inch and 2 Inch Trailer Hitches - Tail Lights

Installation Details TH49XE Installation instructions



Customer Satisfaction Score:


Customer Reviews

Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ LEDs for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel or Frame Mount - TH49XE

Average Customer Rating:  4.6 out of 5 stars   (19 Customer Reviews)

This 2-bike rack with tail lights is perfect for carrying bikes of nearly any style, including heavy electric bikes with fenders. Integrated wheels let you roll the rack, so you don't have to carry it to your vehicle. Tilts with bikes loaded.

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To expansive qualifié price



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It is solid and holds two ebikes nicely. Once I figured out some logistics and positioning, hitching up the rack and loading the bikes go very smoothly. The bike locks, however, are flimsy. Both no longer lock the bikes. Also I wish Thule made this rack so it could fold up against the car when not in use. Driving around, backing up, when no bikes on the rack, is problemmatic and I have already damaged the rack ( my fault) when backing the car into a tight space because the rack sticks out.



by:

Awesome design and build quality. No issues after 1 year. Also, I use it for e-bikes that weigh around 75 lbs. it handles it easily.



by: 07/04/2024

The carrier is well made and extremely sturdy. But it does not fold up close to the back of the vehicle. The wheel trays fold up to the center. But the whole rig sticks out the full length of the tack 3+ feet from bumper



by:

I purchased the Thule Epos bike rack to replace a defective Thule Easyfold XT2 bike rack. This rack is a significant improvement and after using it for a month now really like it's design and performance.

I use it to carry two Riese & Muller ebikes (combined weighing over 100 lbs) and the rack is very stable with the two bikes installed; virtually no lateral movement of the rack while driving and the ratcheting strap that is the primary attachment is rock solid in design and application. The Epos is a little wider than the Easyfold rack which allows the two wheels to be in more contact with the rack. I also noticed the spacing between two bikes was fat better on the Epos versus the Easyfold. There is no concern for contact of the two bikes which also makes it easier to remove each bike off the rack.
Although we only use the Epos for two ebikes, having the ability to transport a third bike is a nice bonus when having a solo friend to join on a ride.

Our ebikes both have full fenders and the Thule Epos rack provides a super secure frame connection that works great on bikes fitted with fenders. I was skeptical of the racks that secure the bike using ratcheting arms on the front/rear wheels with fenders.

The one addition that Thule offers is an optional lighting accessory that is a nice add on if you need it.

Overall, this is a great rack!



by:

I'm so happy with this rack and docked it a star because of issues I had with Thule - NOT with eTrailer

I purchased this rack to hold 2 e-bikes and a third child's bike. I watched all of the videos and knew this is what I needed. Ordered and it was out of stock - of course with it being so new. I had to wait about a month to get it.

Once I received it, I took it out the box and it sat for a week before I could use it. Went to install it on to my truck and one of the wheels fell off. Upon inspection, the hole for the screw was stripped, so the screw just fell out. Used the chat feature on eTrailer and a new one was on the way in less than a day. (OUTSTANDING Customer Service)

Got the second rack, and one of the pads was missing from the third holding bar. Again - not eTrailer's fought. I contacted Thule and a they sent over a replacement part right away.

I get it. These are very popular and Thule is trying to meet that demand. I just wish they had some better "pre-flight" inspections.

Overall, this rack is dang near perfect. Bikes go on easily, they are secure and you can lock them down - no need for that extra cable that they sell.

Buy with confidence - but check you unit right away!!



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Easy to use and great for our E-bikes



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Great service. The perfect e-bike rack.



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great product!



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Well built. Fits 2 Aventon Sinch bikes nicely.



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19
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See what our Experts say about this Thule Hitch Bike Racks

  • Loading Ramp For Thule Epos Bike Rack
    Hey Bob, There is indeed a loading ramp from Thule that will work with any of the Epos bike racks - the Thule Epos 3-Bike Rack # TH69XE, Thule Epos 2-Bike Rack w/ LED Lights # TH49XE, and Thule Epos 2-Bike Rack # TH99XE. I went ahead and verified for Thule that what you need is the Thule Foldable Loading Ramp # TH43VA.
    view full answer...
  • 2024 Subaru Forester Parts Needed to Properly Carry Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ LEDs
    You will need a trailer hitch receiver and a wiring kit installed on your 2024 Subaru Forester in order to properly use the Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ LEDs # TH49XE, and for that I recommend the following: - Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C47HR - Curt T-Connector # C56040 - Eclipse Magnetic Mounting Bracket # 306-X6019 The Curt trailer hitch is the only option with a hidden crosstube which is why I recommend it. The hidden crosstube means you get a better finished look at well as better...
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • 2023 Toyota RAV4 Wiring Needed for Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ Lights
    The Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ Lights # TH49XE has a standard 4-Way flat connector (see attached) so you just need to install the Curt T-Connector # C56434 on your 2023 Toyota RAV4 for the lights to properly work. I also recommend picking up the Mounting Brackets # C42CR and # C57202 so you can mount the 4-Way plug near the receiver on your Draw-Tite Hitch # DT82QR for easy access.
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Can Lights of Thule Epos Bike Rack Work with 7-Way Trailer Wiring on Vehicle
    Hey Dave, it sounds like you have a 7-way trailer wiring connector which would just require the adapter part # PK12716 to connect to the lighting of the Thule Epos bike rack part # TH49XE.
    view full answer...
  • Is Thule Epos Bike Rack Available Without Lights
    It is; if you don't want the lighting function of the Thule Epos Bike Rack # TH49XE there is a version that you can get which does not have lights. What you need is the following: - Thule Epos Bike Rack # TH99XE Apart from the lights these are otherwise the same rack, with the same 66 lb capacity and super easy tool-free installation.
    view full answer...
  • Availability of Hitch Bike Racks that Have Lights and Wiring Harness Built In
    Yes we do. We have the Saris Door County Bike Rack part # SAR42RR that has taillights built in and a 7-way trailer wiring harness. This hitch only fits the 2 inch hitch size and was more designed for e-bikes that weigh a lot more but we also have the Thule Epos part # TH49XE which fits both the 1-1/4 inch and 2 inch hitch size. The wiring harness of this rack is a 4-way which is more commonly found on lighter duty vehicles. Taillights aren't super common on bike racks in the US unlike...
    view full answer...
  • Is The Thule Epos 3 TH49XE Rated For Fifth Wheel Or RV Use?
    No, the Thule Epos 3 # TH49XE is not rated for fifth wheel or RV use. It can be used only on a car, truck, SUV or van. We offer two bike RV/Fifth wheel rated racks like the Hollywood Rack RV Rider # HLY64FR. We do not offer a 3 bike rack rated for this kind of usage.
    view full answer...
  • Is The Thule Ethos Bike Rack Compatible With Being Used Behind Travel Trailers?
    The Thule Epos Bike Rack w/ Lights # TH49XE you found is not compatible with travel trailers. Currently the Thule Range # TH9057 is our only Thule bike rack compatible with travel trailers. If you are not hung up on having Thule I recommend using the Swagman E-Spec Bike Rack # S94FR. This rack has the highest capacity for the bikes you can carry at up to 70lbs per bike. While this does not have lights like the Epos rack you can add the Auxiliary Lights # C53201 to the rack. If you need...
    view full answer...
  • Tilting Bike Rack Recommendation for Subaru Outback
    Hey Gregor, yeah we have great tilting bike racks that would fit your Subaru Outback from the super nice Thule Epos bike rack part # TH49XE which is very easy to use and loaded with features to the Economical Malone Runway part # MPG2130. Or the tried and true middle of the road value Thule Hitching Post Pro part # TH934XTR. I also attached a link to a page that has all the tilting racks we offer.
    view full answer...
  • Can The Kuat Swing Away Hitch Extender PVP20B Be Used With The Thule Epos Bike Rack TH49XE
    Hello Michael, thanks for reaching out. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you cannot use the Kuat Swing Away Hitch Extender # PVP20B with the Thule Epos Bike Rack # TH49XE. The reason for this is the 1-1/4" to 2" adapter on the Epos bike rack. The adapter weakens the whole setup and it would be highly unsafe to carry your bike rack this way. This will unfortunately be the case for any swing away hitch extender. They are only compatible with bike racks made for a 2" hitch only. The...
    view full answer...
  • Solution for Trailer Hitch on 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 Coupe
    The Curt # C11485 you looked at only fits sedan models. Unfortunately, there are no custom-fit hitches for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 Coupe. If you want to add a 2" hitch you will need to take the # E17 to a local fabricator and have them fashion a custom hitch for your vehicle. If you're using a bike rack like the Thule Epos # TH49XE it would require 4-way wiring # 119250KIT to power the lights. Most bike racks do not have lights which means wiring would not be necessary.
    view full answer...

Do you have a question about this Hitch Bike Rack?


Info for this part was:

Employee Jameson C
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Employee Dustin K
Video Edited:
Dustin K
Employee Matthew S
Written by:
Matthew S
Employee Daron K
Edited by:
Daron K
Employee Evangeline M
Installed by:
Evangeline M
Employee Thomas T
Video by:
Thomas T

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