Thule bike rack question..

[Fredman]

Hi Everybody.
I really need your input on my "dilemma".
I have the Thule Euroway 932 bike rack. It packs 3 bikes, but I bought it for our two E bikes.
Hopefully i'm over thinking this, but i'm a bit concerned about the weight on it. The two bikes has a combined weight of 48kg and the rack has a max load weight of 51kg. I know i'm under the max, but it still concerns me. I'm going on a long road trip in a few days time and just want to be sure that the bikes will be safe on it. The roads can be bumpy where we're going and at speed that bump can test that max load limit. My logic though says the 51kg is only a safe max load and the actual limit is higher...hopefully.
I would really like to hear from anybody that has some experience with using this racks on the max weight limit?
I'm contemplating taking the batteries off to save some weight, but that brings a whole new set of problems to keep it water proof if it should rain.
Thanks.

 

[Alaskan]

I use the Thule Easyfold XT2. To stabilize the rack and give it some extra support I also use 2 Curt hitch straps. They did not fit under the top edge of the tailgate on my wagon so I lashed a four foot lock cable between the roof rails and hooked it onto that. It really keeps things from wobbling and takes some of the weight off the tongue and hitch. I attached the straps to the U bar on the hitch.

CURT 18050 61" Hitch Bike Rack Support Strap | eBay

Manufacturer Part Number 18050. Bike Rack Strap; Bike Rack Strap With Cambuckle For Added Support and Security;. Cargo & Storage. Lighting & Electrical. Towing Accessories. Hitches and Towing. Exterior Accessories.

ebay.us

 

[6zfshdb]

I usually carry two e-bikes in the bed of my pickup. When I need to carry a third bike, I use the Thule T1 Hitch Rack:

Thule T1 | Thule | United States

Thule T1 - 1-bike hitch bike rack black

www.thule.com

It's rated at 60# and the bike weighs 58 with the battery removed. I travel some pretty rough roads getting to some of the remote trailheads I frequent and I've never had a problem. There has been much discussion here about bike weight rack weight limits with very few if any failure reports. I believe Thule is a bit conservative with their ratings for legal reasons. You should be fine with your setup.

If it were me, I'd remove the batteries though due to weight & security issues. I've seen a few bikers use plastic wrap to cover the exposed battery terminals. A security strap, such as Alaskan uses, is also a good idea.

 

[Alaskan]

better pic of the straps

 

[Fredman]

Thank you for the responses. I'll stick with my gut feeling and remove the batteries when I do the long stretches. We're busy making the covers.