Comparing Yakima HighRoad and Thule UpRide Roof Bike Carriers for Carbon Fiber Bicycle

Question:

Hi there I have a carbon road bike with carbon wheels and Im considering purchasing a roof bike carrier to transport it around. I am looking at either the Yakima HighRoad or Thule UpRide as I like the fact that neither makes contact with the frame. Im familiar with the Thule brand and know that they make good products but, of the reviews Ive read on these two products, it appears the Yakima is the one of choice. In your expert opinion, which one of the two would you recommend? Additionally, could the clamping force applied to the front tyre / wheel to secure the bike down damage the carbon wheel in any way? Look forward to your advice. Thanks

asked by: Anthony

Expert Reply:

Between the Yakima HighRoad # Y02114 and Thule UpRide # TH599000 wheel-mount roof bike carriers I give the nod to the Yakima because it has two complete wheel hoops rather than one hoop and a clamp. This mounting method means more support the entire front wheel/tire. I would give the advantage to the Thule only if your tires are smaller than the 26-inch recommended minimum for the HighRoad; the UpRide accepts tires from 20- to 29-inches.

In terms of clamping force you can control this when you load the bike.

The other thing to note when considering this carrier choice is that each fits different roof rack crossbar spacing. The Yakima HighRoad # Y02114 fits rack bar spacing from 18- to 36-inches while the UpRide # TH599000 fits bar spacing from 24- to 43-inches.

Neither rack includes locks but they can be added using part # Y07202 for Yakima or part # TH450200 for the Thule.