Can the Thule Elite Van XT 2 Hold Electric Bikes?

Updated 07/20/2024 | Published 07/10/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Elite Van XT 2 Bike Rack for Sprinter Rear Door

(52)

$849.95

Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(322)

$549.00

Question:

Can it hold e bikes

asked by: K L

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you. Unfortunately, since the Thule Elite Van XT 2 Bike Rack # TH302043 only has a per-bike weight capacity of 42 pounds, it is not enough to hold an electric bike. There isn't a trunk/van bike rack option that will carry the weight of electric bikes.

With that being said, the best bet is a hitch-mounted bike rack or adapter that has a swing-away capability that will still allow you to open the rear doors of the van. For this route, I recommend the Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount # KU84FR along with the Kuat Pivot 2 Swing Away Hitch Extender for Bike Racks - 2" Hitches - Driver's Side # PVD20B. The Kuat Transfer V2 has a weight capacity of 60 pounds per-bike and allows you to safely attach your bikes to the ratchetings hooks by the front wheel. The reason why the Swing Away hitch adapter is more effective than other brands of swing away adapters we carry is because it allows you to swing the rack 90 degrees and 120 degrees instead of just 90 degrees away from the rear.

As far as a recommended hitch receiver, I would be happy to recommend one if you provide me with the year/make/model of van you have as well as the wheelbase of the vehicle.

expert reply by: Bob C

7/20/2024

2014 mercedes benz pleasureway ascent 144

Bud M.

7/20/2024

@Mg You will need to measure the width of your frame to ensure the Receiver # e76AR is correct for your 2014 MB Sprinter chassis. This receiver does not fit models with 30-3/8" frame, measured outside to outside of frame.