Will the Thule T2 Pro XTR Work with Two Electric Bikes with Fenders on My 2022 Acura MDX?

Question:

I would like to buy this Thule platform bike rack. Question I have 2 electric bikes with fenders front and rear on both bikes. Can I still use the swing bar over the front fender or some place else to hold the front tire without damage to the front fenders on both bikes? I like the thule and the Kuat rack. Thule is the more economic choice. Do you think this rack or another rack you could recommend for a 2inch receiver to hold 2 electric bikes?

asked by: Bill H

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you. Here at etrailer, we highly discourage using a wheel-mount bike rack like the Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount # TH83JV when using bikes with fenders. The wheel mounts increase the possibility for cracking and damage of the fenders.

With that being said, a great alternative hitch bike rack is one that uses a frame-mount style. I recommend the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # HLY84FR because of its durable 80-pound maximum per-bike weight capacity and its economical price tag. It also has the a frame-mounted securing method that completely bypasses the damage potential of securing your bikes by the wheels. If you have electric bikes that are step-throughs or alternative frame styles, I recommend the Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Electric, Step Through, and Cruiser Bikes # S57FR. The bike frame adapter bar will allow you to attach a straight horizontal plane to your bikes in order for them to be secured by the ratcheting hooks of the Sport Rider SE.

As far as a 2-inch hitch receiver that will hold your two electric bikes on your 2022 Acura MDX, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C22HR. With a maximum tongue weight of 900 pounds, the Curt Hitch has more than enough weight capacity to hold your rack and electric bikes. The Curt Hitch uses the existing hardware on your frame for a simple bolt-on installation.

expert reply by: Bob C