Thule ProRide 591 Bicycle Carrier User Manual

1. Introduction

The Thule ProRide 591 is a premium roof-mounted bicycle carrier designed for secure and convenient transportation of your bicycle. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your ProRide 591 carrier, ensuring safe and reliable use.

Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use. Keep it for future reference.

2. Safety Information

Your safety and the safety of others are paramount. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or property damage.

• Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure your vehicle's roof and roof bars are suitable for carrying the weight of the carrier and bicycle(s). Consult your vehicle's owner's manual.
• Proper Installation: Always ensure the carrier is securely attached to the roof bars and the bicycle is securely attached to the carrier before driving. Double-check all fasteners and straps.
• Weight Limits: Do not exceed the maximum weight capacity of the carrier (approximately 20 kg or 44 lbs per bicycle) or your vehicle's roof load limit.
• Driving Adjustments:
  • Drive at reduced speeds, especially over rough roads, around corners, or in strong crosswinds.
  • Be aware of increased vehicle height when entering garages, car washes, or low-clearance areas.
  • Increased wind resistance may affect fuel consumption.
• Regular Checks: Periodically check the security of the carrier and bicycle during long journeys.
• Maintenance: Keep the carrier clean and free of debris. Inspect for wear or damage before each use.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before beginning installation. Contents for a single Thule ProRide 591 carrier typically include:

• Thule ProRide 591 Bicycle Carrier main unit
• Wheel straps (2 per carrier)
• Mounting hardware for roof bars (T-track adapters and/or around-the-bar clamps)
• Keys for locking mechanism
• Instruction manual (this document)

Figure 3.1: Overview of two Thule ProRide 591 carriers, illustrating their design and components.

4. Setup and Installation

Before installation, ensure your roof bars are clean and properly secured to your vehicle. The ProRide 591 is designed for easy, tool-free mounting.

4.1. Attaching the Carrier to Roof Bars

1. Select Mounting Method: The ProRide 591 supports both T-track mounting (for roof bars with a top channel) and around-the-bar mounting. Use the appropriate hardware provided.
2. Position the Carrier: Place the carrier on your roof bars, ensuring it is centered and aligned. The front and rear mounting points should align with the roof bar positions.
3. Secure Front Mount: Engage the front clamp mechanism around the front roof bar. Tighten the knob until the carrier is firmly secured.
4. Secure Rear Mount: Engage the rear clamp mechanism around the rear roof bar. Tighten the knob until the carrier is firmly secured.
5. Check Security: Gently shake the carrier to ensure it is rigidly attached to the roof bars. There should be no significant movement.

Figure 4.1: Side profile of the Thule ProRide 591, highlighting its sleek design and how it sits on roof bars.

4.2. Reversing the Carrier (Optional)

The ProRide 591 can be configured for mounting on either the driver's or passenger's side of the vehicle. If you need to reverse the orientation (e.g., to have the bike face forward on the driver's side), follow the instructions provided in the detailed graphical manual that came with your product. This typically involves re-positioning the frame clamp arm.

5. Operating Instructions

Once the carrier is securely installed, you can easily load and unload your bicycle.

5.1. Loading a Bicycle

1. Open Frame Clamp: Rotate the large knob on the frame clamp counter-clockwise to open the clamp arm.
2. Position Bicycle: Lift the bicycle onto the carrier. The wheel trays will help guide the wheels into position. The frame clamp arm should be positioned to grasp the bicycle's down tube or seat tube.
3. Secure Frame: Rotate the large knob clockwise to close the frame clamp around the bicycle's frame. Continue tightening until the bicycle is firmly held and stable. The clamp has a torque limiter that will click when optimal tightness is reached.
4. Secure Wheels: Use the provided wheel straps to secure both the front and rear wheels to the wheel trays. Thread the strap through the wheel and buckle it tightly.
5. Lock Bicycle (Optional): Use the integrated lock on the frame clamp to secure the bicycle to the carrier. This provides an additional layer of security against theft.

Figure 5.1: A bicycle securely mounted on the Thule ProRide 591, demonstrating the frame and wheel securing points.

5.2. Unloading a Bicycle

1. Unlock Bicycle (If locked): Use the key to unlock the integrated lock on the frame clamp.
2. Release Wheels: Unbuckle and remove the wheel straps from both wheels.
3. Release Frame: Rotate the large knob on the frame clamp counter-clockwise to open the clamp arm.
4. Remove Bicycle: Carefully lift the bicycle off the carrier.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance will prolong the life of your Thule ProRide 591 carrier and ensure its continued safe operation.

• Cleaning: Clean the carrier regularly with mild soap and water, especially after exposure to road salt, dirt, or harsh weather conditions. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• Inspection: Before each use, inspect all components for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Pay close attention to straps, clamps, and moving parts. Replace any damaged parts immediately.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a small amount of silicone spray or light lubricant to the moving parts of the frame clamp and locking mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the carrier in a dry, protected area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Thule ProRide 591.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Thule website. Thule offers a limited warranty on its products against defects in materials and workmanship.

For technical support, spare parts, or further assistance, please visit the official Thule website or contact their customer service department using the contact information provided on their website or in your product packaging.

Official Thule Website: www.thule.com