Comparison of the Kuat Aluminim Bike Rack vs Thule Helium Aluminum Bike Rack

Question:

Ive read several opinions on your sitethank you! Yesterday a Class I hitch was installed on my 2007 Accord Sedan and am still uncertain which rack to buy. My womens Trek is 38 lbs. and I may often take it long distances, so either are fine. The clearance from my hitch pin to stick-out of bumper is 7. Will both racks clear sufficiently clear? Will both racks anti-sway cages prevent the wheels from hitting my bumper? The Thule is rated for 70 lbs. I will occasionally be carrying 2 38-lb bikes but only for short distances. I really like the integrated locking system of the Thule. Confusing for a first-time buyer. Help and Thanks!

asked by: Cheri S

Expert Reply:

Both the Kuat Hitch Bike Rack, item # B202-114, and the Thule Helium Aero Aluminum 2 Bike Carrier, item # TH9042PRO, will work on your 2007 Accord sedan. The TH9042PRO rack has 8 inches clearance from the center of the hitch pin hole for your bumper and the B202-114 rack has 10-1/2 inches. If you like the integrated locks the Thule rack would be a good choice but if the two bikes you will sometimes carry will weigh over 70 pounds (sounds like 76 pounds) I would go with the Kuat rack. You could choose a cable lock like the 10 foot Long Cable Lock, item # e98891, to lock the bikes to the trailer hitch chain loops.

expert reply by: Robert G