Looking For 5 Bike Rack That Does Not Require Wrench To Attach To Hitch

Updated 05/30/2025 | Published 05/26/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 5 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(218)

$599.95

Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(350)

$51.45

Question:

Hi! We are a family of 5, with children ages 15, 11, and 8. And we are looking for a hitch, beast, bike trailer that can accommodate all of our bikes. From reading the reviews, it seems like we may need adapters for some of the children’s bikes we borrowed a friend’s recently that fit 4 bikes, and it was very difficult to even fit those 4 with the children’s bike sizes. Do the ones that fit 5 actually fit 5?. Also, we would like one that doesn’t require a wrench to attach to the hitch. And that can be pushed up and down easily. Any recommendations?

asked by: Rachel M

Expert Reply:

Hello Rachel, thanks for reaching out. I see you were looking at the Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 5 Bikes # TH9026XT and honestly this is a really good choice that will fit your needs. It can carry 5 bikes. It installs to the hitch using a hand knob, so you don't need to carry a wrench around with you. It also tilts away from the car to allow access to the hatch.

You are correct that adapter bars like part # TH982XT may be needed for kids bikes or alternative frame bikes.

I will admit though, it can be tricky to fit all 5 bikes on here. With kids bikes it is actually going to make that easier. You will want to stagger the kids bikes in there between the adult bikes if possible. This should leave enough room for handlebars and things. It may take a few tries but you should be able to find the configuration that works for all 5 bikes, although it will be crowded.

The picture I included below shows a good example of this. This was actually sent in by a customer who left a review. They said the rack did work for their needs. They did mention is was difficult to get all 5 bikes to fit, but as long as you don't mind the bikes touching up against each other it can be done. You can even see they used a few adapter bars in there.

So based on this the Thule Apex XT # TH9026XT is definitely what I recommend.

I hope this helps. Hit the reply button on this page and let me know if you have any other questions or anything.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Thule Apex XT Bike Rack Example 1
(click to enlarge)

Thule Apex XT Bike Rack Example 2
(click to enlarge)

Rachel M.

5/29/2025

Thanks! This is very helpful… These were a few other racks that I was looking at. Do you think that any of these might be a better option? Quality + cost?? And if so, with the same adapters work? Thanks! Yakima Y02463 Hollywood-Racks HR520 CURT C18065 Saris SA775

Jesse M.

5/30/2025

@RachelM Hey Rachel. So all of those racks you mentioned are similar 5-bike hanging style racks. I would put the Thule, Yakima and Saris in the same category as far as quality, functionality and durability. The saris does use a hitch bolt, while the Yakima and Thule will be tool-free. The Curt and Hollywood racks are decent but they are a bit more entry-level as far as pricing and quality. You do get what you pay for. If you will only be using the rack once or twice a year for short trips, the Hollywood # HR520 would serve you fine. If you plan to use it more frequently and for longer trips, I definitely recommend going with the Thule or Yakima. Please let me know if you have other questions. I am here to help :)