Comparing Thule Spare Me and Yakima SpareRide for 2004 Honda CR-V  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

First, in terms of the configuration and durability of the mounting plates and bars: these two racks are on par with one another and I cannot give an edge to either one. I have dealt with the Spare Me # TH963PRO more than the SpareRide # Y02599 and I can say from experience that it is more than enough to support the rack and bikes. In terms of versatility I give the edge to the SpareRide because it actually comes with 3 bar options for various tire sizes. Either one though fits your 2004 Honda CR-V. Winner: Tie

For the anti-sway features of each I give the overall edge to the Thule design. The No-Sway Cage works well and I do speak from experience as my bike rack does have this same feature. The Yakima design is functional but I like the Thule design better. Winner: Thule

For bike to bike protective features beyond the anti-sway, which is the primary, I give the advantage once again to Thule. The cradles on it can be moved to put more space between the bikes to decrease the likelihood of unwanted contact. The SpareRide does not have this feature. This also applies to your next category, length of arms for accommodating 2 bikes. Winner: Thule

For the locks, they are on par with each other. Both feature an integrated cable lock and the knob can be locked on the rack itself. The locks are keyed a like on both and work just as you would expect them to from leaders in the industry. Both racks have replacement keys readily available should you need them. Winner: Tie

For clearances, again there is no clear winner though the moving cradles on the Thule rack give it the slight advantage. But I am still going to call this one even. Winner: Tie

expert reply by: Jameson C

1

Dan

9/26/2017

Jameson, Are there any types of bikes that won't fit on the TH963PRO, like mountain bikes or a certain tire width ? Thanks,

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Jameson C.

9/26/2017

The bike styles you mentioned would be fine. I wouldn't put a recumbent, trike, or tandem on that rack but anything else would be fine! If you plan on carrying any womens or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Kuat Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01 to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.

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