Comparing the Yakima ForkLift, Thule Circuit, and Rocky Mounts TieRod Roof Bike Carriers

Updated 04/06/2015 | Published 04/04/2015

Question:

Hi, I have factory roof racks and interested in getting a single fork bike carrier. Of the three that Ive looked at - the Yakima forklift, Thule Circuit, and Rockymounts tierod, which do you recommend in ease of use, but also for lack of wind noise? Thanks in advance!

asked by: Albert

Expert Reply:

Wind noise is not really something you would want to use to factor in when purchasing a roof mount bike rack. With a bike on the rack, it won't matter because the bike is going to create a lot of drag. And when not carrying the bike you should take the rack off of the roof rack. But I would give a slight edge to the Thule Circuit, # TH526XT. The bullet rounded front and curved "tray" would create less drag.

In terms of which is the easiest to use I would give the edge to the Yakima ForkLift, # Y02098. The way that it mounts to the roof is a little easier to handle than the other two carriers. As far as putting bikes on them I would say there is no clear winner. They are all comparable to each other in that regard. I have linked videos on all of them for you.

I would throw in a dark horse contender as well, the Rhino-Rack Mountain Trail, # RBC035. It is one of the more stable roof mounted racks and it comes with bike/rack locks.

expert reply by: Michael H