Comparing Malone Pilot and Thule UpRide Roof Mount Bik Racks

Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/16/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Malone Pilot Trailer Bike Rack - Wheel Mount

(15)

$215.95

Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack - Wheel Mount - Clamp On or Channel Mount - Aluminum

(43)

$399.95

Yakima FrontLoader Wheel Mount Bike Carrier - Roof Mount

(112)

$258.95

Question:

can you tell me the difference from the Malone Pilot roof rack vs the Thule UpRide? I prefer the design of the Malone, how is the quality vs Thule?

asked by: Joe

Expert Reply:

Great questions, Joe!

While the Malone Pilot Trailer Bike Rack # MPG2100 and the Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack # TH599000 do look pretty similar, I can confidently say there is a big difference in quality.

The Malone line of products specializes in functional and lower pricing while Thule has a wide range of bike rack options, with the UpRide being their high-end rack when it comes to quality and ease of use.

We can also see some advantages in the features of the UpRide; it can install via clamps (like the Malone) as well as the T-Slot, and it has a higher weight rating at 44 lbs as opposed to the 33 lb rating of the Malone.

If you're wanting something at a lower price-point without sacrificing the quality then my alternative recommendation is the Yakima FrontLoader # Y02103. This is a wheel mount style like both racks mentioned above, it has a fairly simple installation method with clamps, and the weight rating ranges from 30 lbs - 40 lbs depending on your crossbar spread.

I'm attaching a video I was in for the UpRide as well as a review video of the FrontLoader for your reference.

expert reply by: Jon G

Heather A.

12/22/2025

Hey Joe, how did things turn out with the Malone Pilot compared to the Thule UpRide? Did the quality and design meet your expectations once you tried it out? Your feedback could really help others weighing the same options.