The advantage of this system is that the arms dont come in contact with your bikes frame; they merely press down on the tires. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. Because the trays are more narrow than the Saris MTR which I use as well, I have to open the arms farther on the Helium to fit a bike. The strength of the Thule Helium Platform XT is not only in its constructionmade with steel and aluminumbut in the hitch mount racks simplicity as well. Product details Compatible with both both 1.25- and 2-inch hitch receivers. Once the rack is in the hitch receiver, you tighten a knob that takes the wobble out of the rack. When I slid the rack into the receiver, a hook on the right side clipped into a receiver pinhole to position the rack in place. for the 2-bike version and 20 lbs. vs. a 3-in. Perhaps this was helped by the fact that the heavier bike was loaded closer to the vehicle, and the collective total didnt exceed the 75 pounds, but the rack felt rock solid even on forest service roads and capable of hauling more than its listed weight. And neither rack is a standout in wheel size and tire width compatibility or weight capacity. The Helium needs 4 inches more bumper clearance than Thules T2 Pro. Id say a determined thief could get through the cables, so dont treat them as a long-term storage option. I usually leave a thick cable with a U-lock, or the above-mentioned Abus chain in my vehicle for such occasions. Thule Helium Bike Platform XT . And if you need more than two mounts, look elsewhere. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. If transporting heavier bikes is a must, its a good idea to put the bike on the inner-most tray. It's a simpler method than the ratchet arm/rear-wheel strap on other hitch racks, on which I'm forever forgetful in the proper order of operations, inevitably lowering the arm first, then fumbling to not lose the bike off the rack while unratcheting the wheel strap. A final alternative to have on your radar is 1Up USAs Heavy Duty Double. For most people with regular mountain bikes, it shouldnt be an issue. And again, for road and gravel cyclists, this limitation shouldnt be a deal-breaker. $479.95 (63) 63 reviews with an average rating of 3.4 out of 5 stars. To provide extra security, the rack comes with a cable lock for each bike. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. *Intermediate markdowns may have been taken. In terms of compatibility, the Heavy Duty Double wins out against the Helium with the ability to accommodate wheels ranging from 16 to 29 inches, can haul more weight (50 lbs. As with many tray-style tilt designs, lowering the Helium Platform rack allowed for access into my vehicles rear hatch (a Volkswagen Golf Alltrack), even when bikes were loaded. In shaving weight, however, you do sacrifice some long-term durability, and we experienced a few significant issues during testing, including the tire ratcheting system failing, rust accumulation, and stickiness along the sliding arm mechanism and spring in the pivot. Its what you grab for nearly any type of outdoor adventure, whether its a hike, bike ride, or day on the slopes. It can . /equipment/bike-accessories/bike-car-racks/thule-helium-platform-xt-2-bike-hitch-rack/p/40699/. If security and bike-to-bike contact are top priorities for you, we'd recommend sticking with the tried-and-true platform options. It also offers slightly less space between bikes, at 10 inches, compared with the T2s 12.5, but does allow adjustment to avoid interference when two bikes are loaded. Thats why a rack that holds bikes securely without touching the frame is the only rack Ill use. Try our Car Rack Finder! with gear attached) without consequence. The Platform XT's arms conveniently fold down to create a low profile when not in use. Apart from the arms, another design feature that speeds up mounting is the long trays on which the bikes rest. Releasing the arms is also quite fast: Squeeze the levers at the top of the armsits best to push into the rack while squeezing the leverand then slide them off. Securely holds bikes in place without frame contact, Aluminum construction makes it easy to use, install and remove, Effortlessly fold down bike arms when rack is not in use, Convenient access to the rear of the vehicle using the HitchSwitch lever to tilt the rack down, even with bikes on it, Includes integrated cable lock, Snug-Tite stinger for locking rack to vehicle, and is One-Key System compatible, Accommodates wheel bases up to 52" (132cm), 26"-29" wheel sizes, up to 3" wide tires, Two-bike capacity, up to 37.5lbs (17kg) each. Its available for 1.25- and 2-inch hitch receivers. If you like the compact nature of the Helium Platform, Kuats Sherpa 2.0 is an even lighter alternative. We put the $700 Thule Helium Platform hitch rack to the test to see how it stacks up to an industry standard the 1Up what it does well, and what could be better. Exemptions apply. Removing is equally fast and convenient, which is a big positive for those that plan to store their rack for stretches of time. With the Helium Platform, Thule takes on the 1Up with a lightweight, one- or two-bike hitch rack that won't touch your frame and is both lockable and easy to use. We expose the bike racks to extreme heat and cold, as well as moisture, sunlight and chemicals. The Epos loads bikes onto a tray and it has telescopic bike arms with a pivoting head and reinforced straps that can attach to the frame, seat tube, or wheel to hold it upright. Buzz. January 7, 2021 Last Updated: June 8, 2022 Singletracks may receive compensation for purchases made through any affiliate links in this article. 1-888-301-1527 Help Center My StoreFind your nearest store My Account Welcome, Guest Vehicle: None Selected Change Vehicle Vehicle Info Securely attaching to the receiver hitch of your vehicle, they offer unmatched versatility and ease of use. Damage is minor but still disappointing. Visit the Thule Store. The capacity for each tray is 37.5lbs and they are spaced 10 inches apart. Compared to the platform design tested here, the two Pro offerings weigh less (19 lbs. Curt 2 Bike Platform Rack with Anti-Rattle Lock Pin vs Swagman Chinook To answer your first question: Yes, the Curt 2 Bike Platform Rack, product # c18085, is a good alternative to the Swagman Chinook, part # S64683. With the rack folded, I slid it into my 2-inch hitch receiver. Orders over $49 ship to your home for free, and all orders ship free to your local retailer for in-store pickup. Thule; Helium Platform XT Thule Helium Platform XT $399.00 - $849.95. Its not impenetrable, but it offers definite peace of mind for gas or rest stops. We expose the bike racks to extreme heat and cold, as well as moisture, sunlight and chemicals. ), and can carry more bikes (up to four with the add-on). To load my bike, I opened the symmetrical ratcheting wheel loops. One tip: As with our experience with other racks, its worth adding a dab of Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 on the threads of the screws to ensure they dont loosen over time. Keys are included, and its a no-brainer to keep that locked whenever you have your rack connected. The 1Up also costs $100 less, at $600 compared to the Heliums $700 for the two-tray version, though Thules Chris Ritchie says the Helium passes the most stringent global testing standards for this style of rack, and that may be worth the extra investment for some. Then, you have to make sure the trays are arranged in such a way so that, up above, one bikes bars arent bumping the other bikes saddle. For loading, you simply set the bike on the tray and push the two sides evenly until its secure (the arms will click as they lock into place). That said, if you plan to leave your bikes on the back of your vehicle, we highly recommend adding a sturdier backup. If youre searching for the best way to transport bikes, hitch-mounted bike racks are the way to go. -1 star because of the seller's attempt at shipping in the original Thule box instead of placing in another box. To put a bike on and secure it takes a matter of seconds. The installation of the hitch rack was pretty simple. The primary material is aluminum, which has held up extremely well despite remaining on my vehicle for six months straight, which included lots of dusty trails, rain, and some snow. The $700Helium Platform 2 can hold two 37.5-pound bikes up to 75 pounds total. However, our favorite design for multiple seasons running is Thules more premium T2 Pro XTR. Fits carbon frames, mountain bikes, 26 - 29er wheels and up to 3" tires. Remember the 3 maximum tire width? Product description All features Now with the rack installed, a squeeze of the handle in the middle of the rack either lowered it to level for loading or folded it down beyond level. And if youre stopping for an errand, an integrated theft-deterring cable slides out from each tray to lock each bike. The construction keeps the weight really low for a full tray bike rack, and altogether it weighs just over 43lbs. By signing up for email newsletters, you agree to GearJunkie's, Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). You can go lighter with an alternative like the Yakima Dr.Tray (34 lbs. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. The rack partially blocked the brake and turn signals on my Volkswagen Alltrack. During the course of my testing period, I did change my hitch size, so it was handy to have the adaptor. Theres no fiddling with straps or any excessjust place the bike on there, secure, and go. Terms apply. She has written and photogtraphed for more than 20 publications, and has served as a contributing editor at many of them. Thule Helium Bike Platform XT $424.20 Only 9 left in stock - order soon. We have biking gear that will give you more time out on the trail. Yes, that sounds heavy, but its a manageable heavy. To see how it stacks up to the competition, check out our article on the best hitch bike racks. As for the rear lights on my Volkswagen Tiguan, they are fully visible with the rack up. Once the wheel-holders are pressed inward to secure the bike, the rack is ready to roll. Ive blasted down BLM roads with two mountain bikes in the rack and done some minor off-roading (also against the rules in the Thule manual) and felt absolutely fine about it, but I would not use it with two e-bikes that exceed the weight. Check out. But thus far, I have no issues to report, and the Helium strikes me as reasonably well-built and hardwearing considering its compact shape and lower weight. If my handlebars were a full 800mm wide, I may have had a problem accessing the rear of my vehicle, but I still had enough room between the rear door and my 770mm wide bars to pop it open. The Helium Platform is Thules take on the style of rack that 1Up made famous. However, cable locks are not included with the rack (you do get a hitch bar lock), and the tilt feature is hidden under the rack and hard to reach with bikes loaded on. For most of us, this limit is no problem. The trays are on the narrower side, which I like because it gives the rack a neater appearance when its not in use. Raise your voice in the movement to protect and share life outdoors. Simple, free delivery options for however you prefer to shop. Price: $800Number of bikes: 2Weight: 43 lbs.What we like: High-end look and feel, extremely user-friendly, and reasonably light.What we dont: Pricey considering its low maximum weight capacity.See the Thule Helium Platform. Pushing the arms to meet the tires gives a satisfying click, click, click from the latching mechanism. Free ground shipping on rooftop tents and orders over $99. Noticeable more hardwearing and durable than most other options in this weight class. We make buying car racks easy! Their NV Base 2.0 is a solid hitch-mounted rack that is comparable to class-leading A key piece of any gear closet is a go-to daypack. It makes it easy to travel with two bikes without frame contact, and its aluminum construction is highly durable for regular use. With some hitch mount racks, each tire has its own tray. At just over 43 pounds, the Helium is impressively light while still offering solid build quality and bike security. It makes it easy to travel with two bikes without frame contact, and its aluminum construction is highly durable for regular use. There are obviously a few variables at play here, including the type of vehicle and bike in use. Add EasyFold XT 2-Bike Hitch Rack to Compare Thule . Select Size to see the return policy for the item; Size: Select. Thule EasyFold XT 2-Bike Hitch Rack. You're just a few clicks away from an awesome car rack to transport your bikes. Mountain Bike Deals, Copyright 2023 Blue Spruce Ventures LLC | Hello I like 2 bike rack of Thule Thule Helium Pro vs Thule apex xt i found Thule Helium Pro vs Thule apex xt price different - less economical vs more economical weight- light vs heavy bike rack cap. Rack locks securely to the vehicle with the tool-free . Further, the wheel sizes are limited to adult models ranging from 26 to 29 inches, so kids bikes wont work. Both racks are aluminum. Free shipping over $99 (exceptions apply), Securely holds bikes in place without frame contact, Quickly attach bikes and easily secure them to the rack using the ratcheting wheel loops, Aluminum construction makes it easy to use, install and remove, Effortlessly fold down bike arms when rack is not in use, Convenient access to the rear of the vehicle using the HitchSwitch lever to tilt the rack down, even with bikes on it, Lock bikes to the rack using the integrated cable lock (lock included), Fits 26-29 wheel sizes up to a 3 wide tire, Quick to install and easy to lock the rack to the vehicle due to the tool-free, SnugTite stinger (lock included). The aluminum construction and sleek aesthetics make the . If youve ever tried to put mountain bikes on nearly any hitch rack, you know its a dance of dropper post adjustments to keep seats clear of handlebars, and wiggling bikes back and forth so handlebars dont knock brakes on a neighboring bike. Thules tilt system, which they call the HitchSwitch lever, is well-placed for up and down adjustments. Enter your email for the top stories in mountain biking, plus product picks and deals delivered to your inbox each week. When you turn the key, you actually disengage the knob, so would-be thieves cant loosen it. And I had the same experience when using the rack with a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Best of all, mounting a bike on this rack takes less time and faffing than getting a bike on or off pretty much any other rack. Support Us | Generally, what most people look for. The newsletter sign-up system is currently down for maintenance. Within the wider Helium collection, Thule also offers the hanging-style Helium Pro in 2- and 3-bike variations, which retail for $480 and $500 respectively. Deuter Aircontact Core Backpack Review: My Original Survived 10 Years Will the Updated Pack Last as Long? Rating: (4.8/5) See the Thule T2 Pro XTR This rack is designed to carry one bike. At the Thule Test Center in Hillerstorp, Sweden, products go through extreme testing. But for most riders, the Helium Platform will make for an awesome choice. https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-7, https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=b5770911-39dc-46ac-ba0f-b, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MXY4M9N/?tag=20sbt-20. Singletracks Merch | On Thules aluminum Helium Platform, however, its super easy to mount any bike so it doesnt hit the one next to it. While this is a minor issue, I do have friends who have received tickets for such an infraction. Most of the time is spent attaching each tray and arm to the center piece. Shipping options Deliver to Address. Broudy has been writing about cycling, skiing, and outdoor gear for more than 20 years. Treat yourself to new gear & clothing! The Thule Helium Platform 2-Bike Racks main calling card is its ease of use. Berne Broudy is a contributing writer at GearJunkie.com. The Thule Helium Platform comes with a couple forms of locks. While it does come with limitations in terms of wheel size and tire width compatibility, the well-built rack impressed us with no-fuss performance throughout the six-month test period. Capacity: Color: Silver/Black. I havent used it long enough to gauge its effect on fuel efficiency but its light weight and slim profile point to positives on that front. A small block in the corner of the square stock that slides into the hitch receiver needs to be pushed into alignment first.
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