Comparing The Thule Xsporter Pro And Yakima OverHaul HD Ladder Rack For 2021 GMC Sierra 1500

Question:

adjusting height and taking on and off the truck...which is easiest Thule or Yakima version

asked by: Claude D

Expert Reply:

It looks like you are referring to the Thule Xsporter Pro Truck Bed Ladder Rack - Aluminum - 450 lbs - Black # TH500XTB which is confirmed to fit the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 5-3/4', 6-1/2', and 8' bed. A similar Yakima version would be the Yakima OverHaul HD Adjustable Truck Bed Ladder Rack - Aluminum - 500 lbs - 68" Crossbars # Y01151-58 which is also confirmed to fit all bed sizes of the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500.

When comparing these two ladder racks in regard to installation, height adjustment, removal etc., I think the Thule Xsporter Pro wins by a long shot; it is also the cheaper option. The Thule allows you to easily adjust the height of the system with the simple turn of the plastic knob on the uprights, there are numbers going up the bars to make sure you are adjusting each upright in accordance with each other. The Yakima, on the other hand, requires use of an included tool which you will then loosen the bolts holding the uprights and then can adjust them; this is slightly more involving then simply turning a knob. The installation for the Thule is also somewhat easier than the Yakima.

The weight capacity of the Yakima is 500lbs which is higher than the Thule's 450lb weight capacity, but I still think the Thule is the better option to go with and that is what I recommend. I attached a detailed demonstration video that shows the Thule system being installed on a 2020 GMC Sierra 1500. I also attached a video for the Yakima system in case you would like to further compare the two ladder racks.

expert reply by: Andrew N