Is it Safe to Carry a Carbon Fiber Frame Bike with the Clamps on the Thule EasyFold XT

Question:

I recently purchase a Trek Super Commuter 7 electric bike fenders, this along with the Trek FX6 carbon frame bike that I also own. Thule states that this rack is compatable with carbon frames as long as you use the optional carbon frame protector. I have always been told and read never to clamp anything to the frame as the compression would damage the carbon fiber. How safe is this and why should I not think it would not damage the bike. I have been using the Tule T1 rack for years and would like to stay a loyal customer but if there is another rack that you feel might be better suited, please let me know.

asked by: Jack D

Helpful Expert Reply:

As long as you use the Thule Carbon Bike Frame Protector # TH984101 it is completely safe to use the Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202 with your carbon fiber bike frames. I know it does sound a little counter-intuitive to use a clamp on a sensitive bike frame but Thule has actually done extensive testing to verify that this is safe and they are a top tier bike rack manufacturer world-wide if that helps to put your mind at ease.

On the older version of their Helium Pro # TH9042PRO they actually had this same cushion technology used for the cradles and they said that it was completely safe to carry a carbon fiber bike frame with those cradles (which is another big no-no for bikes with sensitive frames). In fact, when they were out here for training one of the guys said that he used it all of the time with his carbon fiber bikes and it didn't affect the frame at all.

expert reply by: Jon G