We’ve repeatedly called for a recall of Thule T2 racks — for precisely the flaw demonstrated in this video. We consider the fix Thule has offered — a small bolt at the end of the main support — to be inadequate.
Thule T2 Bike Rack malfunctions on interstate causing injuries and destroyed mountain bike from Angie Hyndman on Vimeo.
The presenter in the video, Tim Cook, has filed a claim with Thule for two bikes damaged when his rear tray slid off on an Interstate highway just before Christmas. Cook graphically depicts exactly how the shimmying of a bike on the tray can work the fastening clamp loose. Our take as an owner of a T2 is that the clamp bolts should go into and even through the strut. To rely on friction, no matter how tightly bolted, is an act of faith in potentially life-threatening situations.
We have contacted Thule for official comment but have been told in the past that the company will not respond until a case is settled. As of this writing Cook and Thule are exchanging emails; we’ll update as available.
Huh, I’m with you — a bolt through the strut seems like a no brainer. An interference fit or clamping the parts together for something like that seems insufficient. Even a little in through the parts would keep the rack from sliding back, no?
Wow. Thank you for this post! This is the rack that we were going to buy!!
I’ve definitely lost confidence in Thule. Not only for poor design– but because they haven’t been quick to announce a recall. No thanks, Thule.
[...] Bike Intelligencer sent us a link to a customer’s video showing what they claim to be a design flaw in the Thule [...]
Wouldn’t locking the rack have kept it from opening?
I’m not aware of any lock that would have prevented the specific situation described in the video. Tim says he did have the bikes on the rack locked together at the time but that wouldn’t prevent the situation either…
Thank you for sharing your experience. I am disgusted with Thule. I met a rider in Park City, Utah at the trailhead who experienced an identical failure. He decided to add a retention bolt. I own an original Sportswork rack that continues to perform flawlessly. Thule has screwed up a great design. I’m in need of a second rack and I won’t be buying a Thule T2. I will have another look at the Yakima equivalent but my impression to date has not been favorable. You would think for 4 large these companies could produce a decent and safe product. Not interested in the huge number of potential failing parts on the Kuat, although it is nice looking. Good luck with your product liability claim.