Thule T2 Pro XT Review as Favourite Bike Rack & Key Features
The sports market is on a fast-changing pace to keep up with the trend and to leave clients feeling satisfied.
This is why it is no surprise that various sports companies have taken up the task of manufacturing bike racks and revamping almost annually.
We believe that before thinking of purchasing any particular product, thorough research has been done Thule T2 Pro XT review.
This is why we have created this review for the Thule T2 Pro XT.
This review has been written based on the significant criteria that affect your choice of bike racks for cars; its pros and cons as well as its specific features.
Thule T2 Pro XT Bike Racks for Cars
Final Verdict for Thule T2 Pro XT Review
- Compatible with various bike types and tire sizes.
- Possesses an inbuilt lock system and hitch pin.
- Made of the quality and durable materials.
- High-security level.
4.4 of 5 Stars
Thule T2 Pro XT Review
The Swedish company Thule is a renowned name when it comes to sports gear. It is even more popular amongst bikers owing to the vast range of bike accessories.
The Thule Company owns a series of bike racks including the roof bike racks, hitch bike racks, trunk bike racks, and the truck bed bike racks.
The Thule T2 Pro XT is a modification of the T2 Pro with even better adjustments and features to suit your various needs.
The changes are not easily discerned unless both racks are compared side by side.
The space between the trays is increased in the T2 Pro XT as well as the adjustment range of the lateral tray.
The Thule T2 Pro XT Product Review
The Thule T2 Pro XT bike rack is considered to be a favorite amongst bikers. We believe this fame could be traced to its predecessor, which is the Thule T2 Pro.
Its trailblazing features are still maintained in the T2 Pro XT, but extra features have been added to improve it further.
The T2 Pro XT still possesses the much-coveted tilt function and tool-less setup but has an even wider space between the trays.
Unlike the T2 Pro, T2 Pro XT takes up more space when folded (not in use), and it is not easily hoisted due to its 51 lbs. weight.
We also discovered that setting up the T2 Pro XT is more difficult when compared to T2 Pro, but is considered easy when compared to products from other brands.
Specification
- The rack weighs 51 lbs.
- Carrying capacity of 2 bikes.
- The load capacity is 120 lbs.
- Maximum weight per bike: 60 lbs.
- Accommodates 20 – 29” wheels
- Dimensions: 54 × 15 × 43 in.
- Compatible with the Thule Pro XT Bike Add-on for carrying up to 4 bikes.
- 12.5-inch distance between bikes.
- Fits 2” receivers but not 1.25”.
- Compatible with one key system.
Notable Features of the Thule T2 Pro XT
1) Proficiency
We believe that everyone requires value for their money and we assure you that the T2 Pro XT provides that. This is because it combines all your expectations in a rack.
Its durable ratcheting arms, inbuilt lock system, easy-to-navigate tilt function, and versatility when it comes to accommodating any bike all sums up to one sturdy package.
Due to its sturdiness, it might just be able to carry more weight than expected, and all these features make this rack recommendable.
2) Setup and easy navigation
The T2 Pro XT, unlike its counterparts, is not so easy to set up and therefore requires some amount of tinkering. A level of carefulness is also advised, especially when setting the front wheel cradles.
A common mistake of putting it backward is bound to happen if extra care is not taken. However, it is easy to use after 2-3 instances. It takes about a minute to load and unload bikes.
To load the bike, you merely need to place the bike on the rack, raise the arm over the front wheel and pull the handle down till it laps onto the tire.
As soon as the front wheel is in place, the strap should be looped over the tire.
3) Capacity
The T2 Pro XT is set to accommodate two bikes, and it also carries a series of different two-wheelers without the aid of adapters. Bikes with 5-inch tires can be accommodated because of the size of the cradle. Therefore, one can carry mountain bikes and children bikes.
If you want to be able to carry up to 4 bikes, you have to consider buying an add-on to double the capacity of the bike rack preferably those with 2” receiver. The weight capacity of the T2 Pro XT is set at 120 lbs.; able to carry two bikes of weight 60 lbs. each.
4) Durability
Quality and durability are always the driving force behind purchase. The T2 Pro XT is built with quality material seeing as it is heavier than its counterpart.
Despite its weight, it has a portly metal frame with cradles made of plastic and smaller odds and ends that feel just as bulky.
Due to the quality materials employed, the T2 Pro XT is long lasting; this is common with Thule products. You are assured of using this product for a long period.
5) Weight
The T2 Pro XT has a relative weight of 51 lbs., which is quite bulky compared to other bike racks.
This only confirms the saying: “the bigger, the better” as its components are heavy and made of quality tidbits.
If you do not mind flexing some muscle for the long run, the T2 Pro XT is the right choice for you.
6) Bike fastener
The arms of the T2 Pro XT are made to hold the bike down. The arm that presses against the tire holds any bike type down the same way the thickened handle is made to stand any applied force.
The strap at the rear wheel is also easy to use and holds the bike firmly.
7) Ease of assembly
When compared to other racks, this rack will require you a bit more efforts. However, this shouldn’t bother you with the provided manual.
You can easily assemble it with the help of someone, with the help of provided tools.
8) Hitchswitch lever
The tilt system of the T2 Pro XT is similar to those found in other models of Thule hitch rack.
You are assured of easy access to the rear of your vehicle with this rack even when a bike is atop.
9) Security on Thule T2 Pro XT
There are built-in locks found at each ratcheting arm edge and also on the wedge knob that holds the rack to the vehicle.
The location of these locks are well hidden and blends into the rack easily.
The Pros & Cons
Pros
- Its tilt lever system is reliable.
- Compatible with various bike types and tire sizes.
- It requires no tool to set up.
- Possesses an inbuilt lock system and hitch pin.
- It is made of the quality and durable materials.
- Compatible with different car models.
- Reliable bike attachment mechanism.
- Easy to access vehicle trunk.
- Accommodates add-on features.
- High-security level.
- Easy to use when set up properly.
Cons
- Its cost is relatively high.
- Not easy to carry when dismantled.
- It takes a long time to set up.
- Built-in cable locks a bit short.
- Sideways adjustment of bike rail limited.
question
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions on Thule Pro XT Review
How is the T2 Pro different from the T2 Pro XT?
The T2 Pro XT possess spines at the base and cross trays that are a bit longer than that of the T2 Pro.
Can the rack be made to carry four bikes?
Yes, a Thule add-on can be attached to the rack to enable it to accommodate two extra bikes.
Does it fit the 1.25” hitch receiver?
No, it only fits into the 2” hitch receiver.
Can I access the rear of my vehicle when it is set up?
Yes, the tilt function makes it easier to access the rear of your vehicle.
Does this rack come with an adaptor for a different sized receiver?
No, you have to order for the inbuilt receiver size.
Will my child’s bicycle fit into this rack?
It depends on the size of the wheels. A 20” wheel bike can be accommodated.
Conclusion
Despite having many products on the market, we recommend this Thule T2 Pro XT bike rack because of its impressive features.
The bike rack is the easiest to use and newbie-friendly. It’s perfect for traveling over a short distance while add-ons are attached.
Even though it might be way beyond budget, it is worth its price as a premium platform hitch bike rack.
It offers great value, versatility, durability, and ease of use.
If you own a fat bike, mountain bike or your child’s bicycle, the Thule T2 Pro XT is the best choice for you. We rate this product 4.4 on a scale of 5.
Final Verdict
#1st Rated
Thule T2 Pro XT Review
This Thule T2 Pro XT review bike rack because of its impressive features. The bike rack is the easiest to use and newbie-friendly