Adapter Needed to Use the Thule Prologue Roof Mounted Bike Rack with Aeroblade Crossbars

Updated 05/25/2020 | Published 03/15/2012

Question:

Is the Thule 516 prologue fork-mount bike rack compatible with the Thule ARB53 Aero 53in Crossbars? The crossbars are not the traditional square crossbars. I do not know if I will or will not need any additional adaptors. Thank you for your help!

asked by: Blake

Expert Reply:

The Thule Prologue Roof Mounted Bike Rack that you referenced will work with the Thule Aeroblade crossbars on your 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the XADAPT9 load bar adapter, # THXADAPT9.

This adapter comes with a curved metal bracket for the rear crossbar and two square head bolts that go into the top channels of the front crossbar. There are two nuts that secure the front of the bike rack to the two square bolts.

I have linked installation instructions for you to check out.

expert reply by: John H

Rob H.

5/21/2020

I just installed this set up but the front of the rack slides some left and right. The front bolts are tight but how do I get it to not slide?

Chris R.

5/25/2020

There may be SOME side to side movement on that front bracket, but this should be pretty limited - especially once you actually have the bike loaded. Just make sure the wing nuts as tightened down properly and you shouldn't have any issues.