Can I Mount the Thule UpRide Bike Rack Backward on My Truck Bed Crossbars?

Updated 05/25/2021 | Published 05/24/2021

Question:

I have a 2021 Silverado 1500 shortbed crewcab with a RetraxPro tonneau cover to which I have mounted Thule Pro Bars crossbars. For purposes of clearance, can I mount the Upride backwards? To be more specific, In order for the Upride to have enough clearance for my bicycle and to be able to properly extend the front tire securing bar to load my bike, I would need to mount the Upride with the rear wheel of the bicycle up close to my rear window and the bicycle front wheel securing mount at the rear of my truck... Backwards.... Is this acceptable and would my bicycle be as secure as if the Upride was installed with he bicycles front wheel facing forward? The attached phot is of my Outride Rack but I want to be able to leave the wheels on my bike when using the rack...I would have to reverse the direction of the bicycle though... Your thoughts?

asked by: Steven

Expert Reply:

I confirmed with my contact at Thule that even though they recommend the bike to be mounted on the Thule UpRide # TH599000 with the front wheel pointing toward the front of the truck, he said that your bike will be secure on your 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 if the UpRide is mounted backwards.

expert reply by: Bob C