Can Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack Be Installed Backwards Facing The Rear Of Vehicle?

Updated 08/25/2021 | Published 08/24/2021

Question:

I would like to mount two bikes on the top of my Yukon XL. Will the bike above the drivers side need to face to the rear, or can the brackets be reversed on the drivers side and allow the bike to face forward? I assume facing to the rear is not a big deal, but please advise. I already have a Thule 916XTR, plus a 2 bike add-on. The ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack would allow me to carry up to 6 bikes including my hitch rack. thank you!

asked by: Chuck N

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can certainly mount the Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack # TH598004 backwards with the bike facing the rear of your vehicle. This bike rack uses the same clamps and mounting hardware on the front and rear, so you won't have any issue turning the carrier around to mount it backwards. You may not need to do this as it comes down to the length of your crossbars. I would measure your crossbars to verify if there will be enough room to fit both of your bikes without the handlebars or pedals hitting each other. If they are going to touch then I would flip one of the bikes around to avoid bike-to-bike contact.

expert reply by: Andrew N