Introduction
The Thule Outpace 2 Bike Hitch Rack is a lightweight and compact platform designed for securely transporting up to two bicycles. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Thule Outpace 2, ensuring safe and efficient use.
Figure 1: Thule Outpace 2 Bike Hitch Rack, showcasing its compact and robust design.
Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the safety and stability of your bike rack and bicycles. Follow these steps carefully.
Hitch Compatibility
The Thule Outpace 2 is designed to fit both 2-inch and 1.25-inch hitch receivers. Ensure your vehicle's hitch receiver matches one of these sizes.
Tool-Free Installation
- Insert the hitch arm of the rack into your vehicle's hitch receiver.
- Align the hitch pin hole.
- Utilize the integrated tightening lever to secure the rack firmly in place. This tool-free mechanism ensures a snug fit and minimizes wobble.
- Engage the locking mechanism with the provided key to prevent theft of the rack.
Figure 2: Demonstrates the tool-free installation process and the integrated locking mechanism for securing the rack to the vehicle's hitch.
Operating Instructions
Learn how to safely load and unload your bikes and utilize the rack's features.
Loading Bicycles
- The rack supports up to two bikes, with a maximum capacity of 55 lbs (25 kg) per bike, and a total capacity of 110 lbs (50 kg).
- The moveable head rotates, slides, and adjusts flexibly to fit a wide range of bike frame geometries and tube diameters, from 0.8 to 3.5 inches (20 to 90 mm). This ensures a secure fit for various bike styles.
- Load and unload bikes in any order. The design accommodates different frame types and geometries.
- Secure each bike using the integrated bike locks and straps provided. Ensure all straps are tightened to prevent movement during transit.
Figure 3: A user loading a bike onto the Thule Outpace 2, highlighting its compact and capable design for various bike styles.
Figure 4: Illustrates the high capacity of the rack, carrying two bikes, with details on weight limits and tire/wheelbase compatibility.
Figure 5: Close-up view of the pivoting and movable head, demonstrating its adaptability to different bike sizes and styles, along with integrated bike locks.
Tilting Feature for Trunk Access
The carrier can be tilted down even with bikes mounted, allowing convenient access to your vehicle's trunk or tailgate at all times without removing the bikes or the rack.
Figure 6: Shows the easy tilting function of the rack, both when not in use (tilted up) and when bikes are mounted (tilted down for trunk access).
Storage
When not in use, the Thule Outpace 2 folds into a compact unit, making it easy to store in tight spaces such as a garage or vehicle trunk. It also features a built-in carrying handle and a self-standing design for convenient handling and storage.
Figure 7: The rack folded for compact storage, demonstrating its lightweight design at only 29 lbs and self-standing capability.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance will extend the life of your Thule Outpace 2 Bike Hitch Rack.
- Cleaning: Clean the rack regularly with mild soap and water, especially after exposure to dirt, salt, or harsh weather conditions. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
- Lubrication: Periodically lubricate moving parts, such as the tilting mechanism and pivoting heads, with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
- Inspection: Before each use, inspect all straps, buckles, and attachment points for wear, damage, or looseness. Ensure all bolts and fasteners are tight.
- Storage: Store the rack in a dry, protected area when not in use to prevent corrosion and damage from elements.
Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and their solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rack wobbles excessively in hitch receiver. | Hitch arm not fully tightened. | Ensure the integrated tightening lever is fully engaged and tightened. Check for proper alignment of the hitch pin. |
| Bikes are not secure on the rack. | Straps are loose or not properly positioned; bike frame not correctly seated in cradles. | Re-adjust the moveable heads and ensure all straps are tightly secured around the bike frames and wheels. Verify the integrated locks are engaged. |
| Tilting mechanism is stiff. | Lack of lubrication or dirt accumulation. | Clean the tilting mechanism and apply a silicone-based lubricant to all pivot points. |
Specifications
Key technical specifications for the Thule Outpace 2 Bike Hitch Rack.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Outpace 2 |
| Model Number | 9012500 |
| Capacity | 2 Bikes |
| Max Bike Weight | 55 lbs (25 kg) per bike |
| Total Load Capacity | 110 lbs (50 kg) |
| Hitch Compatibility | 1.25" and 2" receivers |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Mounting Type | Hitch |
| Bike Frame Compatibility | 0.8 to 3.5 in. (20 to 90 mm) tube diameters |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 30.75 x 25.5 x 11 inches |
| Package Weight | 15.56 Kilograms (approx. 34.3 lbs) |
| Color | Black |
| UPC | 197074574244 |
Warranty Information
The Thule Outpace 2 Bike Hitch Rack comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser. For full details regarding warranty claims and coverage, please refer to the official Thule website or contact Thule customer support.
Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to purchase replacement parts, please visit the official Thule website or contact their customer service department.
You can find more information and support at the Thule Store on Amazon.
