Saris Bones vs Thule Apex XT Bike Racks for a 2021 Tesla Model Y

Updated 02/07/2022 | Published 02/06/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(228)

$499.95

Saris Bones Hitch Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(320)

$299.99

Question:

Looking for a 4 bike hanging rack for my model Y. Torn between light weight Saris bone vs more main stream Thule apex xt. What would you recommend between ease of use vs best overall? Thanks

asked by: AG

Expert Reply:

The only time I would recommend the Saris Bones Hitch 4 Bike Rack # SA884 over the Thule Apex XT 4 Bike Rack # TH9025XT is if the weight of the bike rack was the only factor since the Bones weighs 22 lbs while the Apex XT weighs 35 lbs.

The Apex XT has integrated bike and rack locks as well as an anti-rattle knob which means it's a tool-free installation and you don't have to remember to grab the locks before you leave. The cradles are also spaced apart 7" center to center which is more room than what you'll have with other racks so it will be easier to load your bikes.

The Bones doesn't come with locks, requires a tool to install the anti-rattle bolt, and you have to manually move and adjust each arm individually. The only convenient thing on the Bones is the lever at the bottom that make tilting the rack away from your vehicle easier, but even then the FullTilt has the handle at the top of the rack so you don't have to bend over to reach the lever.

I'm attaching review videos of both racks for you to check out so you can see what I'm talking about for both racks. If you don't already have a trailer hitch then I recommend the Draw-Tite # DT58MR for your 2021 Tesla Model Y. I'm attaching an installation video for this as well.

expert reply by: Jon G