Thule’s T2 hitch mount, tray style bike rack is a popular choice for all cyclists – it’s ultra-secure for full suspension bikes and crazy aero TT machines alike. It fits almost any size bike or tire.
The design has been the same over the years, with recent updates making it easier than ever to lift and lower. But now, something new just rolled in…
The new Thule T2 Pro XTR is the T2 XT plus an “R” for rolling, indicating the new rolling wheels for ease of transportation/storage. If you’ve ever tried to move a Thule T2, you’ll quickly notice the nearly 56lbs of weight – this is a welcome upgrade.
Over the years, Thule’s XT received updates; able to accommodate larger tires, spring-loaded retractable locks, and improved weather resistance. All that being said, the rack itself is still cumbersome and can be a two-person job to install. Hopefully, that’s about to change with the new T2 XTR.
Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Specifications:
Thule T2 XT-Rolling
Similar to the inline skate-style wheels on Thule’s luggage, these rubberized wheels allow the user to easily transport the rack and stand up independently when not in use – another big improvement. If you have a hitch rack in storage right now, I’m guessing it’s laying on its side.
Other features of the Thule T2 Pro XTR rack remain the same. The T2 fits many different bike styles, stabilizing the front wheel with a maneuverable arm and securing the rear with a ratcheting strap around the rim and tire. The T2 XTR can accommodate up to a 5″ tire without adapters and up to 60lbs per bike. The rear stabilizing strap easily slides on the tray to accommodate bikes with a larger or smaller wheelbase length.
Locking features are plenty on the Pro level Thule options, and the XTR doesn’t deviate. Both front-wheel arms come with retractable cable locks, as well as the larger install knob to keep people from stealing the rack off your vehicle. The T2 Pro XTR comes standard with locking cores and keys.
Another important update is the ease of installation. Thule has slowly made its racks easier to install with its auto attach system, and the T2 XTR looks to have a more robust version of the feature.
The auto attach feature allows the user to install the rack without a pin or tools. The rack slides into the hitch, and a spring-loaded arm holds it in place. Then simply use the locking knob to tighten down the displacement wedge, which prevents the rack from swaying or rocking.
Thule T2 XTR specs & pricing:
- The new T2 XTR will only be available in Matte Black.
- Available in 1.25″ and 2″ hitch configurations, and expandable to accommodate four bikes.
- Look for the Thule T2 XTR to hit your local shops and outdoor stores around March 15th, and check back here for a full review.
- Price: $699.95
That’s a wheelie good upgrade
What, I thought cyclists were known for their upper body strength
hydraulic lift comes next
And then hydraulic press
Great idea, especially when the rack is setup for 4 bikes. But the wheels look exposed to being destroyed when the rack bangs the ground unless the mount itself is the first to contact the ground.
The wheels are specifically designed above the first contact point.
Cyclist who want upper body strength…Ride and ebike. Lifting an ebike on and off a rack, work stand, or anything else will build upper body strength.
What about an e-bike with fenders and back rack. Will the Thule work without destroying fenders, etc.?
Yes. The front hook clamps over the wheel in front of the fender, and the back wheel has the ratchet clamp around the wheel and no hook.
It’s been reviewed/written that a 27.5 fat bike will not fit. It is not said why. I’m assuming it’s the Shepard’s hook. If so, and my 27.5 fat bike doesn’t have an aggressive tire, what is the remedy?
Mine fits, a 2022 Trek Farley 9.6.
Thule T2 XTR 2”
I wanted this rack very much and wish to inform. Most reviewers and Thule themselves say a 27.5 fat bike won’t fit this rack. Not true. I just assembled mine today and my Giant Yukon 2 with 27.5 X 4.5 and 25 lbs air fits exactly as Thule made it fit all others. Albeit a little tight. Really! Just a tad tight anywhere on my wheel I wish it to go and the hook fits great locking down just right. I drove two bikes around bumpy roads knowing there wouldn’t be a problem and was right! I’m leaving soon on a 2000 mi. trip in the U.S. confident in the efficacy of this fit wanting others to know of this.
Can this track be contacted to an RV with 2″ receiver