Product Overview
The Thule EasyFold XT 2 is a fully foldable, compact, and easy-to-use hitch-mounted bike rack designed for transporting all types of bicycles, including e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes. Its robust design ensures secure transport and convenient access to your vehicle's trunk.
Figure 1: The Thule EasyFold XT 2 bike rack securely mounted on the rear of a vehicle, carrying two bicycles. This image demonstrates the rack's capacity and how it appears when in use.
Key Features:
- High Load Capacity: Supports up to 130 lbs total (65 lbs per bike), ideal for e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes.
- Integrated Loading Ramp: Facilitates easy loading and unloading of bikes without heavy lifting.
- Universal Hitch Compatibility: Designed to fit both 1.25" and 2" receivers.
- Tool-Free Installation: Fast and effortless setup.
- Secure Bike Attachment: Features torque-limiting knobs and ratcheting wheel straps for quick and secure fastening.
- Fully Foldable Design: Compact for easy storage and transport, includes transport wheels and a carry handle.
- Easy Trunk Access: Smart foot pedal tilt mechanism allows access to the vehicle's trunk even with bikes loaded.
- Integrated Locks: Locks bikes to the rack and the rack to the receiver for enhanced security.
Setup and Installation
Follow these steps for proper setup and installation of your Thule EasyFold XT 2 bike rack.
1. Unfolding the Rack
The rack comes fully assembled. To unfold, release the main latch and extend the platform arms until they lock into place. Ensure all components are securely extended before proceeding.
Figure 2: The Thule EasyFold XT 2 in its compact, folded position, ready for storage or transport. Note the integrated wheels for easy movement.
2. Attaching to Vehicle Hitch
- Insert the hitch arm of the rack into your vehicle's 1.25" or 2" receiver.
- Push the rack firmly into the receiver until it clicks into place.
- Rotate the locking knob on the hitch arm clockwise until it is tight and secure.
- Use the provided key to lock the knob, preventing theft of the rack.
Video 1: Demonstrates the quick and easy process of attaching the Thule EasyFold XT 2 bike rack to a vehicle's hitch receiver and securing it with the integrated locking mechanism. This video highlights the tool-free installation.
Figure 3: The Thule EasyFold XT 2 mounted on a vehicle, illustrating the 9-inch bike-to-bike spacing and the 48-inch maximum wheelbase capacity. This design prevents bikes from contacting each other during transport.
Operating Instructions
Learn how to load and secure your bicycles on the Thule EasyFold XT 2.
1. Using the Integrated Loading Ramp
For heavier bikes like e-bikes, utilize the integrated loading ramp. Attach the ramp to the designated slot on the rack's platform. Gently roll your bike up the ramp onto the wheel trays.
Figure 4: The integrated loading ramp extended from the Thule EasyFold XT 2, providing an easy way to roll bikes onto the rack without lifting. This feature is particularly useful for heavier e-bikes.
2. Securing the Bikes
- Position the bike in the wheel trays. For two bikes, place the heaviest bike closest to the vehicle first. Alternate the direction of the bikes to prevent handlebars/pedals from clashing.
- Adjust the movable frame clamps to securely grip the bike frame. Rotate the torque-limiting knob until it clicks, indicating optimal tightness. Lock the knob with the key.
- Use the ratcheting wheel straps to firmly secure both wheels to the trays. Ensure the straps are tight to prevent movement during transit.
Figure 5: A detailed view of a bicycle secured on the Thule EasyFold XT 2, showing the frame clamp gripping the bike's top tube and the ratcheting strap securing the wheel. This system ensures stability and prevents damage.
3. Trunk Access (Tilt Function)
To access your vehicle's trunk with bikes loaded, use the smart foot pedal tilt mechanism. Press the foot pedal located at the base of the rack to tilt the entire rack and bikes away from the vehicle. This provides ample clearance for trunk access.
Figure 6: The Thule EasyFold XT 2 in its tilted position, providing convenient access to the vehicle's rear cargo area without removing the bikes. This feature is activated by a foot pedal.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your Thule EasyFold XT 2.
- Cleaning: Clean the rack regularly with mild soap and water, especially after exposure to road salt or dirt. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Lubrication: Periodically lubricate moving parts, such as the tilt mechanism and folding joints, with a silicone-based lubricant.
- Inspection: Before each use, inspect all straps, clamps, and bolts for wear, damage, or looseness. Ensure the hitch connection is secure.
- Storage: When not in use, fold the rack into its compact form and store it in a dry, protected area to prevent corrosion and damage.
Figure 7: A close-up view of the integrated transport wheels on the Thule EasyFold XT 2, which facilitate easy movement and storage of the folded rack. Keep these wheels clean for smooth operation.
Troubleshooting
Common issues and their solutions for the Thule EasyFold XT 2.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rack wobbles in hitch receiver. | Hitch knob not fully tightened or incorrect receiver size. | Ensure the hitch knob is fully tightened until it clicks. Verify correct receiver size (1.25" or 2"). |
| Bikes are not secure or shift during transport. | Frame clamps or wheel straps are loose. Bikes are not positioned correctly. | Tighten frame clamps until torque knob clicks. Ensure wheel straps are ratcheted tight. Adjust bike positions to avoid contact. |
| Loading ramp does not fit or is difficult to use. | Ramp not aligned correctly with the rack slot. | Ensure the ramp is inserted fully and correctly into the designated slot on the rack platform. |
| Rack is difficult to fold or unfold. | Joints may be stiff or dirty. | Clean and lubricate the folding joints with a silicone-based lubricant. |
Specifications
- Model Name: EasyFold XT 2
- Part Number: 903202
- Color: Black
- Material: Aluminum
- Load Capacity: 130 lbs (65 lbs per bike)
- Mounting Type: Power Grip (Hitch Mount)
- Hitch Compatibility: 1.25" and 2" receivers
- Item Dimensions (L x W x H): 48.4 x 25 x 26.75 inches (unfolded)
- Folded Dimensions (L x W x H): Approximately 31 x 12 x 26 inches
- Item Weight: Approximately 45 lbs
- Max Wheelbase: 48 inches
- Bike-to-Bike Spacing: 9 inches
- Included Components: Hitch mount bike carrier, integrated loading ramp, locks.
Warranty and Support
The Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty from Thule, covering defects in materials and workmanship. For warranty claims, technical support, or replacement parts, please contact Thule customer service directly or visit their official website.
For additional support and resources, you may also refer to the Thule Store on Amazon.
