In the Bike rack industry, Saris and Thule are two of the biggest and most recognizable names. So, if you are in need of a bike rack, which brand should you buy from? Is one brand better than the other? The answer depends on the type of rack. In this article, we will compare bike racks from both of these manufacturers. We will mainly talk about the three most common types of racks – hitch racks, trunk racks, and roof racks. In the end, you should be able to decide which brand to pick.
Saris vs Thule
Many of the Saris bike racks are manufactured by injection moulding which is a more environmentally friendly method. Contrary to what you might think, the plastic is strong enough to hold bikes. Saris bike racks are available in multiple colours as well. You can also get a Saris Bike Beam that helps you attach oddly shaped bikes. Thule is a company that specializes in outdoor equipment. They think of everything when it comes to their products, including their bike racks. Their bike racks combine ease of use with cutting edge-technology. Now let’s take a look at each rack type separately.
Hitch Racks
Both Saris and Thule offer a wide range of options in their hitch rack category. It is very difficult to separate the two since both brands can satisfy the needs of most people. However, Saris has a wider price range, slightly higher weight capacities, and some models have space for other cargo as well.
| Saris | Thule | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of options | 18 | 17 |
| Price range | $189.99 - $899.99 | $269.95 - $799.95 |
| Number of bikes | 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 | 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 |
| Rack types available | 10 platform style 8 hanging style | 8 platform style 9 hanging style |
| Weight capacities | 60 lbs - 190 lbs | 37.5 lbs - 150 lbs |
| Rack material | Steel | Steel Aluminium |
| Foldable design | Available | Available |
| Bike attachment point | Only frame Only wheels Both frame and wheels | Only frame Only wheels |
| Hold downs | Ratcheting straps Spring-loaded ratchets | Ratcheting straps |
| Vehicle access when loaded | Swinging/tilting design available (for some models) | Swinging/tilting design available (for some models) |
| Receiver sizes | 1 ¼” or 2” | 1 ¼” or 2” |
| Bike and rack locks | Integrated (for some models) Also sold separately | Integrated (for some models) Also sold separately |
| Extra cargo capability | Available (for some models) | No |
Trunk Racks
While Thule and Saris are nearly head-to-head when comparing their hitch racks, Saris might be the better choice if you want to buy a trunk rack. They are comparatively cheaper, lightweight, and more options are available. However, Thule does have a spare tire rack and a unique platform style trunk rack in their collection.
| Saris | Thule | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of options | 10 | 8 |
| Price range | $59.99 - $399.99 | $149.95 - $379.95 |
| Number of bikes | 1, 2, or 3 | 2 or 3 |
| Rack types available | Regular trunk rack | Regular trunk rack Platform style trunk rack Spare tire rack |
| Weight capacities | 35 lbs - 105 lbs | 66 lbs - 105 lbs |
| Rack material | Steel Injection molded plastic | Steel |
| Foldable design | Available | Available |
| Attachment to car | Regular nylon/Steel reinforced straps with Spring/Ladder buckle | Nylon straps Steel cables |
| Hold downs | Ratcheting straps Button straps Spring-loaded ratchets | Ratcheting straps Button straps |
| Vehicle access when loaded | No | Possible when unloaded (for some models) |
| Bike and rack locks | Integrated (for some models) Also sold separately | Integrated (for some models) Also sold separately |
Roof Racks
If you are looking to purchase a roof rack, then Thule is your only option out of the two since Saris does not make any roof racks of their own. Therefore, Thule is the clear winner in this category. Thule roof racks come in three types according to the bike attachment point – frame attachment, wheel mounted, and fork mounted. The prices range from $189.95 to $499.95.
Other Products
In case you want any other bike related products, those are offered by these two brands as well. Saris is well known for their indoor bike trainers. You should try out their trainers if you are unable to ride your bike outside. They also make bike storage systems such as wall racks, freestanding racks, and ceiling storage systems as well.
On the other hand, Thule offers things like bike racks for truck beds, bike trailers, biking backpacks, and even child bike seats. Other than that, Thule has a reputation for making a wide variety of products for other sporting or outdoor activities as well. These include kayak racks, tents, cargo carriers, etc. Hence, you can find more products from Thule than from Saris.
F. A. Q.s
Q1. What other brands produce bike racks?
Ans.: These days, bike racks for cars are ubiquitous. There is a great abundance of options and brands to choose from. Other than Saris and Thule, these include Yakima, Kuat, SeaSucker, RockyMounts, Delta, Hollywood Racks, and plenty more. The downside is that shopping for a bike rack becomes slightly disorientating. Well, all of the brands that we have mentioned produce high quality racks. So, you can just pick one randomly, go through their collection, and choose a rack according to your requirements.
Q2. Do bike racks come with any warranty/guarantee?
Ans.: The answer can vary from one manufacturer to another. But generally, almost all bike racks come with warranty. Most of them have lifetime warranty which makes the rack a worthwhile investment to safely transport your expensive bikes.
Conclusion
So which is better, Saris or Thule? If you want a hitch rack or a trunk rack, then both brands have excellent options. However, Saris might have the edge due to the features, lower prices, and variety. Still, you should look through both their products to find one that is suitable for you. When it comes to roof racks, Saris does not produce any, making Thule the obvious choice.
Useful Resources:
- saris.com
- autoanything.com
- mtbr.com
The post Saris vs Thule Bike Rack: Which one is best? appeared first on ApexBikes.
