Your Thule EasyFold XT2 Bike Rack questions answered - Specifically for E-Bikes
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- Опубліковано 7 сер 2024
- After having owned this Thule EasyFold rack for some time, I've gotten a ton of questions about my first review on it. Here, your most common questions are answered. It's an expensive rack but it is made specifically for E-Bikes. Best to do your homework before you part with that Cheddar. :-) Here is the Amazon link: linktw.in/iBYZbR
All Accessory Links are below:
I get a lot of requests for Amazon links, etc. I have them all organized here by topic, along with more in-depth information here: www.evolutionarytom.com
Save $50 on a RadBike: www.radpowerbikes.com/?avad=2...
Save $50 on a Juiced Bike: www.juicedbikes.com/?afmc=4n&...
I use all of these items and would buy them again today.
Thule EasyFold XT2 Bike Carrier: linktw.in/iBYZbR
Thule EasyFold XXL Fat Tire Straps for the rack: amzn.to/2UVadRi
Thule EasyFold XT Long Loading Ramp: amzn.to/3lZtRrc
CURT Auxilary LED strips for Hitch Bike Rack: amzn.to/2HziZS0
SOWUNO Electric Bike Horn and Motion Alarm: amzn.to/2URFPXN
Topeak MTX DXP Trunk Bag with Panniers: amzn.to/3fsEzUA
Topeak Uni Super Tourist Fat Rack: amzn.to/2UUnJ7I
Topeak Unisex Quicktrack Rack: amzn.to/35VSvDq
Topeak Road Morph Bike Pump: amzn.to/3lZrl4e
Delta Cycle Bike Expandable Net: amzn.to/35Vmb3I
Cygolite Hotrod Bike Strobe Lights: amzn.to/3nRc5H7
Pedro’s Bicycle Tire Levers: amzn.to/3fv3yXA
Slime SKABS Tire Patch: amzn.to/3kXFY6R
Ergon Ergonomic Handlebar Grips: amzn.to/2J1WYf0
ABUS Folding Borgo Bike Lock: amzn.to/3pXIJbR
Cliq Camping Chair: amzn.to/2J6eVZY
Semi-Metallic Disc Brake Pads: amzn.to/3fpABMF
Handlebars MTB 5 inch riser bars: amzn.to/3fsF692
OUTERDO Bike Fork Stem Extension: amzn.to/3kYXqbd
Medical Israeli Emergency Bandage: amzn.to/3lTXMB0
D-Ring Velcro Straps: amzn.to/33aYS3Q
Bongo Ties: amzn.to/3m0bm63
Multi Bicycle Tool: amzn.to/35VwkgC
Kryptonite Cable: amzn.to/35XGmxX
Troy Lee Bike Helmet: amzn.to/3kZboti
VUP Front Frame Bag: amzn.to/3fza3so
JACO Digital Tire Inflator w/ gauge: amzn.to/2J2s7yM
Muc Off Claw Bike Cleaning Brush: amzn.to/3nO8VE2
K-Edge Go Big Pro Handlebar Mount for GoPro: amzn.to/3kU0pkV
Bicycle Bell: amzn.to/3fq1NdW
VAVOFO Smart Plug for Charging: amzn.to/3lTYwWO
If you would "Like" my video or Subscribe to my channel, I would appreciate that very much.
Some of my videos may contain affiliate links.
My full UA-cam channel is here:
ua-cam.com/users/evolutionarytom?su...
For inquiries:
Tom Hornstein, licensed part 107 pilot in Marco Island, Florida
tchornstein@gmail.com
www.evolutionarytom.com - Розваги
I have been scratching my head because I need a rack for a low step electric.
An inquiry to Thule and they recommended this rack .
Thank you for having a video on it.
Thule & Amazon should link to this video - much better and more in-depth than anything else I have seen. Well done!
Thank you, Scott. That makes my day! -Tom
Excellent video, as usual! I was able to order my EasyFold this afternoon (they’ve been in short supply for a few months) and should receive it this coming week!
That's awesome, Neil. Thanks for the nice comment. -Tom
This is truly one of the best video's i have seen so far. Thank you very much! I was struggling with my Scott strike eride 920 and it also fell off because I just couldn't get the ramp far enough in. I btw use the walk assistance of the ebike to get it up the ramp, I couldn't manage it otherwise because of my bad back.
Thank you for the nice comment. I'm glad you found some value in it. -Tom
I could not work out the clamp system, until I saw this video. Thanks man.
Excellent review. Thanks for posting.
Finally got a ebike and I love it thanks for all the great info now my dang wife wants one. We went for a ride up in Tahoe. It was so much fun.
You're welcome, Jeff. Thanks for the nice comment. I'm glad your wife wants one. We enjoy taking ours out together. Gives us another thing to do since our boys are now both out of the house. I bet Tahoe was a blast. I'd love to do that someday. -Tom
I just bought this rack and your videos really helped convince me that it was the right one for me. My husband (who can't bike anymore) is super delighted that I have a rack that I can handle by myself, without needing help. I'm 68, I'm fit, and I mount this rack on the hitch and put my heavy e-bike on by myself, all within 15 minutes. Fabulous. Yes, really expensive, but totally worth the investment. I've had many bike racks and this one is a class in itself.
You made my day, Elisabeth. I love to hear comments like this. Independence is a great thing, especially as we age a little. I agree with you. It's pricey but there is added value in the independance it allows for you, personally. Good for you!!! I hope others read your post and it motivates them to do something they wouldn't otherwise do on their own. -Tom
Hi Elisabeth! My father is 70 and has a tough time getting his bike on this rack. Do you wheel it up or what do you do to get the bike on the rack? Thanks for any insight!
@@Dukes39 I wheel it up, just like Tom shows in the video. I find it very easy
what's the best way to keep the bike balanced while you attach the straps and clamp? I'm close to your age but with some arthritis in my hands. Do you use your body to balance the bike while you attach the straps?
I do just balance it with my hands. I make sure the clamp is close and can be quickly tightened
Also for longer trips in possible inclimate weather, I made a plug of 2" styrofoam to fill the center hole through the center of the rack base. I temporarily removed the plastic escutcheon trim as a template to cut the foam block to an exact fit All the hacks and fixes are in preparaion of use of the rack for extended RV travel rather than short in town uses.
I'd love to see those. I'm looking at some long trips and would like to make it as worry free as possible. -Tom
Great thanks. Getting ready for my drive from the UK to Southern Portugal
I'm going to get back to Portugal soon, Mark. It's on my list since retiring. My wife is from Spain and we're planning another trip. Thanks for the comment. -Tom
Fantastic presentation and information. Thule could benefit posting these.
Terrific video. Thule should pay you for such an excellent instruction!
Your comment makes my day. Thanks!
Thanks answered a lot of my questions!
That's the best kind of comment I could get. Thank you! -Tom
The best video for this easyfold xt 2, thank you very much
I appreciate the very nice comment. Thank you, Greg.
Good stuff. Can you tell us about why you thought to wire it with lights? Just extra precaution?
Great vid evolutionaryTom!!!!!
Thanks, Boogie. Hope you're well and staying healthy. I enjoyed your sand riding video the other day. -Tom
I’m doing well thanks for asking. Hope everything is good in your world. I have been recording and getting myself together for season two.
Excellent choice!
Thanks Tom for the review as i do like watching your videos. The Thule is way more then I would spend on a tow hitch bike rack but will buy it can hold the weight on both our bikes. I have a Juiced Scorpion (90 pounds) & Juiced Scrambler (68 pounds). So a total weight of 158 pounds without the batteries. This Thule rack cannot handle both. I am having a rough time online to find a rack that can hold both our bikes. I am going to keep trying but still nothing yet! Thanks again for the nice review. Worst case scenario. I tell my wife to sell the Scorpion and get a bike with less weight!
Those Scorpions do add another twist when it comes to weight, Tony. You aren't the only one I've heard from about that. I think the Scorpion is pretty cool though! I appreciate the nice comment about my videos, thanks for that. You could just get her the HyperScrambler 2! ;-) -Tom
Hello Tony. Im in the same situation here, did you ever found a rack that works? Thanks
Hello, thank you for the video. Can I still use the hitch lock on top of this rack installed on my hitch?
Just ordered mine today!
I hope you like it as much as I do mine, John. -Tom
Very helpful review. In the second video it looks like the rack is closer to the bumper. Am i mistaken or did you find a way to move it closer?
Very timely as I am now looking for one for my new SUV and the rad mini
Hi Tom. I just took delivery of my CX5. Next up is the hich install third-party then look for this carrier. Do you think two rad minis will fit? of course take the battery off first.
I just saw someone commented that he got two minis loaded. And had suggestion on how to protect them. Tom. You asked for photo of the loaded bikes. Did you get one?
William Meyer
1 week ago
Does the lock mechanism on the receiver portion of the rack get gummed up? Seems that a simple lock like this, located so close to the pavement, will be subject to getting fouled up by road salt, dirt, etc. and will soon cease to function. When you tighten down the knob all the way, is that sufficient to keep the rack solidly attached to the receiver without locking it?
Excellent explanation.
Thank you, Jose. I appreciate the nice comment. -Tom
Can u make a video of how u changed the longer straps for the fat tire from the standerd size that ones with the rack
I would love to hear your comment on the brake light kit you added to the bike rack.. Are they bright and work ok? A short night video would be great… Thanks.
Unfortunately I could not attach an XL size Specialized Turbo Levo Comp e-MTB so have ordered the VeloSpace XT 2 instead. The whoop just isn’t tall enough to reach the seat tube above the rear suspension. A pity as I really liked the EazyFold XT being able to be collapsed for stowage.
I love this bike rack! What it's missing is a waterproof cover - I want to protect my bikes from rain. Has anybody found a decent quality cover they are happy with?
Can you do a short video on how to change the the extra long strap? I just purchased them…
Thank you for showing off how the frame holder works.
My big question: can the 2 frame holder(s) fit n TOP of a top bar bike? Is it tall enough?
My top bar is completely horizontal. Running from the bottom of the seat to the handlebars. I have 2 SONDORS E bikes where the battery compartment takes up the entire triangular area that is usually wide open for most bikes.
Enjoyed your video. Can you please demonstrate how you orientate the two bikes and install the lock bars. I did it once when I picked-up the bikes I did scratch one bike.
I've got an earlier review video out there on this rack, Ray. I think I show the orientation of the bikes in that. As for the locking bars, every bike will be different. Just try one bike at a time and get it down pat, then add the other bike. Go slow and really think about the location of the jaws. It took a few times before I settled on how to do it. Then I took a photo of it on my phone for my own reference. I could maybe do a video on it but it's cold here now. That would be a spring thing. :-) -Tom
Could those removable arms be used as a bike lock? Seems like it would work quite well?
I have a Chevrelet Express 2007; is it possible to open door when the bikes are not on the rack ?
I am 4' 9" and have a 24", 46-54lb Pedego Step In Comfort Cruiser. Searching for a rack that I can guide the bike up and in safely. My worry is that when I get started guiding it up and in, I wont be able to reach or control the bike as front tire engages into cup. Your thoughts? Appreciate your bike knowledge. Maybe I should look at a dirt bike rack or motor bike rack that have wider ramps for on and off loading.
Very well presented
I appreciate that very much. Thank you.
Wish I had seen this video before arriving the at the bike shop, buying 2 heavy ebikes and rack... the sales person said he was unable to help me install the rack and mount bikes as it was a liability issue ?? he came outside to see how it was going and I said I was getting PO'd so he stood back with some direction from distance. ( wife thought I was about to cancel the $8G deal and ask for my money back LOL ) Easy once I got home and followed your video ... thanks again for your expertise.
You made my day, Jim. I am happy it was helpful. Thank you for the nice comment. That's a rare thing on UA-cam!! LOL -Tom
Could you add a video of unhooking from the hitch please? My bike rack is not coming off.
Thank you! Have a blessed life!
Thank you too!
We ride a fat tire Bagi stepthru e-bike and Schwinn LeTour can we load the LeTour first and the Bagi on the outer side?
Can you tell me if the hitch lock is reliable ? It just doesn't seem to be strong enough, I'm sure it is but can you ease my mind ?
I believe Thule recommends placing the heavier bike closest to the car, and loading the lighter bike in the other track.
Tom, a very timely video as I’m picking up my new EZ Fold from my LBS on Monday. Your previous videos on the EZ Fold convinced me to go with this rack...Thanks!
What is your experience or thoughts on when racking only one bike of carrying it in the front tray? My bike, a Riese & Muller NEVO, with both batteries removed weighs about 50#.
FYI...Haven’t received the TOPEAK adapter plate yet so had to fiddle & fumble with Velcro straps again this morning before my ride in 36 degree weather!!!
That thing can't arrive soon enough!! My thought on carry one bike is that the closer to the vehicle the better. The closer it is should cause less leverage on the hitch. Probably doesn't make any difference though. Here's a question. Would you attach both arms when only having one bike on the rack? I probably would.
I have the same bike how is the rack working out for you? I was considering the rack to transport my bike. Thanks!
@@carlstoutamire9525 Carl…The EZ FOLD is working out just fine, now that I’ve figured out how to load my bike and how and where to position my R&M NEVO on it. That said, the very first time I used it nearly resulted in a total catastrophe. I clamped the bike on the down tube which is a very robust trapezoidal shaped tube. I left very early in the morning just about a year ago to rendezvous with several of my cycling buddies for a 55 mile ride in a Pennsylvania State park. Because I left around 6am it was still dark out. About an hour later I was cruising around 70mph east bound on I-80 about 2 miles west of Clarion, PA and the sun was just starting to come up. I glanced in the rear view mirror of my truck and did not see my bike. I looked at both side mirrors and no bike. I pulled of onto the side of the highway…Took a deep breath as I visualized the worst case scenario of my bike scattered in pieces along I-80. I slowly walked to the back of my truck and there was my NEVO laying horizontal to the road being held onto the rack with the wheel straps. I was fortunate that the extent of the damage was that about 8” of the left side of the handlebar was gone. I learned my lesson. I’ve now figured out how to clamp it to the seat post fairly securely. I’m also strapping it to the rack with a couple of extra heavy duty Velcro straps and on several occasions have also strapped it to the rack with a couple of 250# rated zip ties!!! One of my buddies said it looks like Charlotte’s Web. I’ve learned my lesson. FYI..For loading it I recommend that you get the longer folding loading ramp.
@@dickthomson3436 I just picked up an EZ fold this weekend off of offer up and got a fair deal on it. It was lightly used and in overall great condition. All I can say about your story is "WOW" I am glad you didn't lose your bike. Before reading your story I thought the best attachment point would be the seat post and now it is confirmed. I can't believe the straps did not break on you. I do think like you it would be prudent to use some additional straps. Thanks for the response and your suggestions, and happy biking!
When mounting a HiBike and a Jam 2 the bikes rub together at the rear. How do you prevent rubbing damage?
I wish I could search the comments thread, but I don't see this option. Sorry if this has been asked and answered, but do you have issues with your bike rack wobbling left to right when hitting bumps? I drive a rough road at high speeds and notice the rack does wobble with two bikes. Want to be sure I didn't do something wrong on the install, so I'm checking to see if others have this same issue/concern.
Is the 1.25 receiver size rated for the same 2 bikes at 62lbs each?
Good review but how long is your large bike ? I have a Specialized emtb that has a 50.5 " wheelbase and a Specialized Vado 5 cruiser at 48". That rack looks awfully short for a true high end mountain bike and I wonder if I would be dangerously close to the edge with mine.
Took my bike rack down and back to AZ and back to Washington. This trip, when I took of the cover off the left fold down was broken and the aluminum was separated. I got hold of REI, sorry over a year. I call Thule and they got pictures and after trading emails, gave me 40 percent off a new rack.
I will take off my longer straps and probably bring the rest to the dump.
I have a RCS like the one in your video, I will only be loading one bike, would you recommend the inside or outside track when loading one bike only?
Thanks for all the informative videos!!
Thanks for the nice comment, Mike. I would go with the inside track closest to the vehicle. It would have less leverage on the hitch and other mechanisms that way. With only one bike you'll be able to use both attachment bars and make it even more secure, I would imagine. -Tom
Great video! I'm concerned about the safety pin to the hitch. I can open it with my fingers and wondering if there is a way to lock it in to keep the carrier safe from being stolen?
I have a locking hitch pin on mine, Lee. Very similar to this and it has an anti-sway feature on it that helps keep everything solid as well. amzn.to/3GEo85w
I find it hard to believe Thule didn’t anticipate most folks using these racks on SUV height vehicles and manufacturing a ramp that was already useless.
I completely agree with you, Bob. For the U.S. market you would have thought they could have seen that coming. Pun intended!
Hi I got 2 pretty heavy e bikes. Can this rack hold up to 160 lbs for my 2 bikes ?? Thanks
I noticed you had extra brake lights on your rack. Were they difficult to connect. I just bought some and was told it’s easy to attach.
Would it work on a Bolton foxbat E bike
I would like a video please on how you attach it to your tow ball as mine keeps moving around
Hey Michael. Look at my latest rack video on the Hollywood Rack. I explain their system in detail. For the Thule Rack, I’m using a locking pin that is designed to minimize the tow bar wobble. Thanks for watching! -Tom
We had the Easy Fold for about 3 weeks. After several road trips we finally returned the rack!
We had no issues with loading the bikes or using the arms to secure the bikes. We turned the knob until it clicked and locked the knob. At that point the knob is disengaged with the screw mechanism and freely turns. After a couple hours behind the vehicle, we would check the bikes at a stop. On several occasions the grip mechanism had begun to open. Even though we had originally locked the knob, we could now twist and open it.
Not sure why it kept doing that. But that's a fatal flaw. One time was a bit too close for comfort with the bike only being secured by the tire mechanisms.
I saw on a discussion board that a Thule rep had commented on someone post - who had the same issue - that OF COURSE with any bike rack you should be checking the bikes to see if anything rattled loose while transporting. I'm not sure what the allowable time is on the rack before the bikes need to be checked.
I would caution anyone using this rack to use bungie cords or other means to secure the bike and don't rely on the grips. I'd like to think mine was an isolated issue, but I've seen several other people comment on this issue.
For now we swapped the rack out for a Kuat rack. Hoping this time is a winner!
Thanks for the insight, Teri. That's the best part of videos like this. It brings a lot of experience into the discussion so that people can make wise purchases. Hope the new rack works great for you guys! -Tom
Wonderful video. Thank you. One question, shall I mount a single e-bike 4 in tire on the back or front row? Appreciate your suggestion.
Mount a single bike in the position closest to the vehicle, Jose. That creates less leverage on your hitch mount. In the long run it probably won't make much of a difference but it may bounce less when traveling. -Tom
Thank you. I enjoy your videos. They are very informative. Keep up the good work.
So.... I find this product hard to use because I have 2 roadbikes with double cages and trying to get a spot for the arm to attach to the first bike (the one closest to the vehicle) has been impossible. Anyone have a solution for this?
Great video 👍. When there are 2 fat bikes on the rack do the frames or forks rub against each other? Or is there plenty of space between 2 fat bikes when on the rack? Need to replace my Thule rack (bought in 2005)- currently have a 3 bike Thule carrier. Reason for having the 3 bike carrier is that I can fit 2 bikes 1 at the back and 1 at the front leaving space in the middle between fat bikes.
The bikes are tight on the rack. I put something in between the frames to keep them from rubbing, that's how tight it is. But there as so many types of E-Bikes out there, it would be different if another two bikes were on it. Normal fat-tire bikes would probably fit just fine. That's a complete guess on my part. -Tom
@@evolutionaryTom hey thanks for your reply. Think I’ll get another 3 bike carrier 👍😀.
Verry well exlained. Thank you . Just for you to know , in Canada the're $1249.00 plus 15% taxes.
Going for $1,095 now. Plus, in Alberta, taxes are only 5% (we don't have a provincial sales tax, just the GST).
I am new to having bike hitches. Whenever I put the SUV in reverse, my rear camera is obstructed by the bikes or by folded up platform. The obstructions also make the proximity alert start to sound. Is there any workaround to these inconveniences? Thanks!
I have the same problem with my lexus, in fact the brakes are automatically applied because it thinks I'm about to hit something. I have to turn those sensors off, when the bike rack is loaded
I’m very new to all this but purchased a Townie and the Thule EasyFold XT and have some questions. Do you drive around with the rack or remove between bike trips? Do you ever fold while driving?
I remove it, Pat. If we're on a trip and the bikes are off the rack for some reason, then I fold it up. I take it off and store it overnight if I have a place to put it, just for security. -Tom
nice video , how do i get the rack at A DISCOUNT ?
Putting the receiver into the hitch and in the lock position was very seamless and easy. But, I struggled a bit to take the receiver out of the hitch. Any thoughts or recommendations of why removing receiver was not as easy as installing ? Thanks
Did you loosen the knob as much as you could, Mark? After that, I can't imagine what it would be. I haven't run into that on mine. -Tom
@@evolutionaryTom Thanks- Thats probably it. I have only used it 1 time. And it was a long ride so I was tired at the end. :) .
hitch mounted version of this rack is not available in Australia and the tow ball version is not as good.
Tom, I have an Electra Rat Fink, front axle to rear axle is 54" have not measured overall length but you can easily add 16", will this rack fit? I also have a Pedigo Stretch Cargo Bike which looks to be as long. want to carry both.
Sorry, AM. I would just be guessing if I said it would work. The wheel size works into the axle to axle measurement as well, so axle to axle may not be the same from bike to bike. Do you have a store around you where you could actually see this rack and size it up? -Tom
My rack has stopped tilting so I can’t get to the boot of the car. What could be wrong?
Hi, I find it very hard to till the easyfold away, the release bottom seems hard to engage. Do you have any suggestions
thank You in advance
It is a little hard, David. I grab the top of the bikes when they are on the rack and push a little to relieve some of the pressure on the foot latch. Then just put your weight into the foot latch. I don't do it much but that's about all I think I can do. -Tom
I need to carry two Lectric XP 2.0 step thru ebikes on a rack. They have a wheel base of 48 inches. Do you know of anyone doing this? BTW, great video!
Additional recommendation: I did not add trailer lights to the rack. I have another 5' pool noodle encased section of PVC with T in the center. I have LED trailer lights on each end with the wiring running inside the PVC and out the T. The "light bar" PVC is then attached to the outside bike at a higher eyesight level with velcro straps. For longer trips when the bikes are covered on the rack, I use bungee straps. Although I have started using a bungee cargo net over my bike/rack cover and the light bar is velcro strapped to the cargo net.
have you got the one that clamps onto the ball? If so does the rack swivel around the ball even after being clamped?
I do not have the ball clamp type, Alan.
Do you think is it possible to carry ktm exc f 250 motorcycle (102kg) with this. I couldt see the weight limits in description . Thanks for the video.
No, it wouldn't be able to handle that. The load limit is about 120 pounds. I had a hitch carrier for my Yamaha 250, about 300 pounds with accessories. I had this carrier amzn.to/37ioNcu It will handle the weight and is less than half of the price of the Thule carrier. It's very solid and the motorcycle rides very secure and reliable on it. Hope that helps. -Tom
Great video Tom, thank you. I tried to find out how you got a discount on the Thule rack. I watched other videos but no idea. Can you shed some light please? Thank you!
Thank you, Chuck. Amazon Warehouse is the scratch and dent section for Amazon. They had one that said the original packaging was damaged and may have some damage on the unit but it would be only cosmetic. When I received it, at about $350 off the regular price, the box looked like crap. I looked the unit over and couldn't find any damage. Later I finally found that one of the mounting arms (the long one) has a spot that is dented in, almost like someone hit it with a nail punch. You can see it in this video when I'm showing how the arm attaches. That was the extent of the damage. You can go to Amazon Warehouse and search for "Thule". I actually found it when I was looking at the rack on the traditional Amazon page. It said "Available Retailers", I clicked, and Amazon Warehouse was one of them but it showed the lower price. That got my interest and I clicked in. The rest of the story is sitting in my garage. Hope that answers your question. -Tom
@@evolutionaryTom thanks!
Well done sir...thx!
If you back your vehicle into a low point like a curb, it will make your bike rack much lower for ramping the bike up.
That's a great idea, Snooky. Thank you!! -Tom
@@evolutionaryTom years of loading construction equipment into my 1/2 ton lol.
I bought this rack a couple weeks ago, i have 2 ebikes (Levo SL 18kg each) and im dealing with a lot of issues trying to mount them both in this rack, is there any accesories that i should consider to have both bikes correctly placed in the rack?
Jorge. I'm not aware of any accessories that could help with that. After mounting the bikes numerous times, you sort of learn how they fit the best, aligning pedals, cranks, etc. Once I found how to make them fit the best, I took a picture of the setup and referenced it a few times after that.
What do u use to cover your e bike electrical contacts
Great questions. I have used the roll of shrink wrap that you get at the Uhaul store for wrapping things. It's about 5 or 6 inches wide and wraps tight around the battery area and stays put.
Hey Tom, Just got mine and gave it a test drive . The bike tends to bounce around a bit in the rear view. Makes me nervous . Is that normal for it to bounce around a bit ? Great vid and thanks !
It is normal. It needs to give a bit to absorb the bumps and such. I know exactly how you feel. I had a hitch carrier for a motorcycle. When it would bounce around on the back I swore it was going to snap off at the hitch. Never happened and someone told me the same thing. You want them to give a little bit to absorb shocks, etc. Just make sure you turn the tightening know on the base as much as you can. Then check it after you drive a while. Sometimes you can then get it a little tighter. With the safety pin sticking in that hole, the hitch isn't going anywhere. Also, make sure you have the tilt feature fully engaged when you take off. You'll get used to it after a while and you'll be more comfortable with the bounce. -Tom
@@evolutionaryTom Awesome ! Thanks Tom ! Happy Trails !
@@evolutionaryTom That bounce got me nervous too. I thought I had attached something incorrectly. I guess not.
i see lots of utubes loading the first heavy ebike on the thule ez fold but i sure would like to see you loading a second ebike using the ramp on the rack. Loading the second bike with pedal cranks close to each other and handlebars crossing each other looks tough as the tracks are very close to each other.
That's a great idea for a video, Steve. I'm going to put it on my list. It might be closer to spring though!! -Tom
Get folding pedals
Great demo, thanks! I just purchased and had the EasyFold xt installed with a hitch and I love it. I am wondering if most people leave the hitch on their autos or remove them frequently. If so, is it easy to remove the hitch, I am having trouble and cannot find much info on removing it. Thanks in advance.
Joanne, I don't think it's designed to leave on the vehicle. I would remove it whenever you aren't using it. With less exposure to the elements, it will last longer that way also. It is very easy to remove and the wheels help roll it out of the way when it's off the vehicle. -Tom
Hi Joanne...I'll respond as a woman...I find it quite difficult to lift the rack by myself...my car goes in the garage and so I keep the rack attached to the vehicle...saves me a lot of back issues.
Unfortunately, I use it on my 4x4 pickup and the ramp is too short. Any helpful hints what I can do to be able to roll my beige up?
Cynthia, they do make an extended ramp. It should come with the rack for the price but it doesn't. Another way is to just lift the bike up one tire at a time so you don't have to handle all the weight at once. Not a great answer but.....
I have a Jeep Cherokee and had the same issue with the height and the short ramp so I bought a 6 inch drop hitch to lower the rack. It helps though I still find it hard to load my ~70 lb electric bike on this rack by myself.
Have you ever had any issues with the hitch pin? Seems like it could be a possible single point of failure.
I haven't, Rob. I'm VERY cautious when hooking up any type of hitch, be it a trailer, a motorcycle rack, or this thing. I had a trailer come unhitched 30 years ago and the safety chains saved me. So I'm really careful since then. I always double check the hitch and especially the tilt latch on the Thule Rack. No issues yet. Fingers crossed. Great question. Thanks, Tom
How wide are those tires? Can a 4-inch fat bike tire fit?
They are just a tick over 4 inches, Ed. Both bikes have tires that size, so yes, it fits. -Tom
Do you know where to obtain the Thule EasyFold XT Carrying Box?
Ron, I’m not sure what that is. I’m assuming it’s not the original box for it. Is there a storage box for it that I’m unaware of, maybe? I’d be interested in more info if you have it. Thanks, Tom
How do you fold it back up once its off your car. Mine isn't folding up
The sides still fold in, Beth. I don't think I've had to fold it off the car because I usually swing the sides up and then lift it as it is coming out of the receiver hole.
Where did you find the bag that slides into the rack?
This is the bag. amzn.to/3C7gfmL You have to have a topeak rack that has the Quicktrack system on it, or buy an adapter. -Tom
I have this rack and while driving it opened up! Just like when you press on it to access the trunk. The bike was still attached, thankfully. Have you heard of this happening? I can't find reference to it online. I mentioned it to the store staff where I purchased it and they didn't have any advice. I hope I described it sufficiently.
It tilted back when you were driving??? Wow. I have heard of that happening but I think the comments alluded to it not being fully engaged in the closed position. That was the best guess but I don't think they knew conclusively. I have not have any personal experience with that and my rack has never done that. -Tom
I'm discussing this via the warranty form with Thule. If you pulled on the black bar, the rack shouldn't tilt, right? Mine does!
My friend and I (both women) have been loading and hauling our two eBikes all over. Together we can get the rack in the hitch, but we’re trying to be able to do it with just one of us. Could you do a video of placing the rack in the receiver hitch and getting the safety hook out of the way by yourself? Is it possible? Also, it is a real struggle to get the clamp on the second outside bike. I’m having a lot of trouble getting it to close around the bar where it’s curved. Lots of swearing involved. I finally get it after having to move the inside bike around a bit, but it’s not easy. Several have commented on the click. We were told to get 2 clicks. If you don’t get the clicks, the grippers and more importantly the hitch lock, won’t be fully engaged. This is obviously a disaster waiting to happen.
My pin on right of hitch is spring loaded. I can't remove the bike rack from receiver while holding the pin out of the hole. Just to heavy for me)female age 65)Thule said to put a small piece of cardboard over the hole to keep pin out then I can remove rack with two hands. I am going to try a small magnet and hope it stays on hitch for when I need it to cover hole when I need to remove rack.
👉@3:31👈
Excellent advice, exactly what I did the 1st time when I loaded my bike on the exact same rack🤣
Thank you, Daniel!
So where can we get the Strap? Or do you have a part number?
They go in and out of stock often so I'd keep an eye out. Here's a link to eTrailer. They are a great company and I've used them many times. Seems like they have them in stock. Good price, too. www.etrailer.com/Accessories-and-Parts/Thule/TH985101.html
can you put a bike on the 2nd ramp like you have in the video with no problem driving?
Yes I can. You can see that in some of my other videos. It's tight because most fat tire e-bikes are bulky, but it works just fine. -Tom
@@evolutionaryTom thank you.just concerned. didnt know you can just put one bike on the 2nd ramp only and drive.
With two bikes on the rack, are your tailights/turn signals still easily visible to the cars behind you?
They are somewhat covered, William. Just to make sure I would be safe, I added this. ua-cam.com/video/jPhb83jm1KM/v-deo.html -Tom
Thanks Tom. I just watched it. It should be easy to apply.
My bike is 70 lbs without the battery. This is rated at 65. So it won't work?
Check out my latest bike rack review on the Hollywood Racks Destination E. It has a higher capacity and it's very solid. -Tom
Hi Tom where did you buy the long straps from?
It goes in and out of stock. Here's a good link for you. amzn.to/30k08zQ
Thank you just ordered some....I have two SUPER73...one weighs 70 pounds without battery the other 63 pounds without battery which put me at 133lbs ...do you think those 3 lb are putting me in a bad situation I know it says 130lb max weight?
i left the batteries in both of my rad minis and traveled about 3 hours, did i damage my rack ?
No, you'll be fine, Malaysia. But I would try and avoid that in the future. -Tom
@@evolutionaryTom thank you !! I misplaced my keys for the batteries and had to get them home
Trouble with bike rack bouncing upward and tilting forward when traveling over uneven bridge abutments. Trek + Verve bikes loaded without batteries. 7” of handlebar spacing at rest. Hadlebar
Where did you buy your straps
I got them off Amazon, Craig. Here's the link but I see they are out of stock at the moment. amzn.to/3htncF0 -Tom
The lights on that rack….Are they standard with that rack? Or did you install those lights yourself?
I installed those myself, Joe. Here's what I came up with. ua-cam.com/video/jPhb83jm1KM/v-deo.html
@@evolutionaryTom Excellent! Thank you! Your channel is one of the best I’ve come across. I’ve watched both of your videos on the racks….Thule and Hollywood, and due to the compact nature of the Thule I’ve decided to go with that one. You did a very thorough demonstration of both.
how did you get such a good deal on the rack?
Brian, I found mine on Amazon Warehouse. It was a scratch and dent item. It said the original packaging was in poor condition. The box looked terrible when it showed up and it only had one scratch on one of the bike frame clamps. Other than that, it was fine. -Tom
Anyone had problems with the wiring in these? The outer sheathing on mine is cracking and flaking off. Needs replacing. Not impressed considering how expensive this rack is.
First thing, what do you need to fit to your car ????? And how much does THAT cost ???
If you don't have a receiver already, it will be another healthy expense.