Difference Between Thule Apex XT 5 Bike Rack and Older Apex Rack
Question:
How is the Thule Apex 9026XT newer version different from the older version?
asked by: Aya
Expert Reply:
I spoke with my contact at Thule regarding the new Apex XT 5 Bike Rack # TH9026XT that you referenced and he said the biggest difference/improvement from the older model takes place with the cradle assemblies. The new Apex XT features fixed cradles (the cradles on the older model could be moved forward and back which lead to some instability) with wider spacing between them (7 inches) to better prevent bike to bike contact. The ratcheting system has also been updated to a new strap that's more secure and easier to use.
I have attached a better picture of the cradles so you can see exactly what they look like.
The other primary difference is with the color. The older Apex had a silver color while the new XT models come in a sleek black powder coat like most of Thule's other products.
![Chris R](https://images.etrailer.com/static/images/catg/people/1101_tn.jpg)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 5 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 5 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Search Results: 1~1/4 inch to 2 inch hitch adapters
- Shop: Saris MHS UNO Modular 1-Bike Rack with Cargo Carrier - 2" Hitches
- Shop: Saris MHS UNO Modular 2-Bike Rack with Cargo Carrier - 2" Hitches
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Hitch Reducer 2" to 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver
- Shop: Yakima EXO Swing Away Cargo Carrier - 2" Hitches - 60" x 23" - 250 lbs
- Shop: Replacement 2" Hitch Adapter for Thule Helium and Helium Platform XT - Qty 1
- Shop: Yakima EXO Swing Away 2 Bike Rack w/ Cargo Carrier - 2" Hitches
- Shop: Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver (Class II Only)
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Search Results: thule lb78
- Q&A: Can I use Inno Aero Crossbars on Thule Towers?
- Q&A: Are INNO Square and Thule Square Crossbars the Same Dimensions
- Search Results: thule apex 9027
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between the Thule Helium Pro # TH9043PRO and Thule Apex # TH9025XT?
- Q&A: What is the Weight Capacity of the Thule Bike Adapter Bar TH982XT
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Q&A: Does Curt Still Require Using Stabilizing Straps with Their Trailer Hitches
- Q&A: How Does the Thule Stacker Hold 4 Kayaks
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Video: Tow Ready 4-Pole Mounting Bracket Installation
- Search Results: hitch
- Video: etrailer Hitch Pin Alignment Collar Review
- Search Results: roof rack
- Article: Rooftop Cargo Carriers
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams