What is the Difference Between the Thule Helium Pro Vs Helium Aero 3 Bike Rack

Updated 09/08/2025 | Published 03/14/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Helium Pro Bike Rack for 3 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(92)

$479.95

Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(350)

$51.45

Question:

What is the difference between the Thule Helium Aero 3 and the Pro 3 bike racks?

asked by: Lou P

Expert Reply:

The Thule Helium Pro 3 # TH9043PRO is the newer version of the Thule Helium series of bike racks and was the replacement for the Helium Aero 3 rack a few years back. The biggest difference between the Helium Pro and the Aero is that the Pro uses a much more durable and reliable ratchet strap as opposed to the rubber strap on the Aero, which can stretch and break quite easily. Additionally the cradles come with a foam-rubber padding that will help protect the finish on the bike much better than the cradles that came on the Aero.

If you've got bikes with an alternative frame or aggressive step through, like women's or children's bikes, you will need to use a frame adapter bar like the Thule # TH982XT.

expert reply by: Erik B

John G.

9/6/2025

Is there any weight difference between the old and new version?

Kate F.

9/8/2025

@JohnG The Thule Aero 3 is 5 pounds heavier than the Thule Helium Pro 3 # TH9043PRO. The Aero is listed as weighing 25 pounds, and the Helium is listed at 20 pounds. What kind of bikes do you have? Do you have a specific trail you like to ride? We have the Katy Trail here in Missouri and it is loaded with bikes.