Thule Ridgeline Bike Hitch
Posted on: June 16, 2011
Thules line of bike carriers and products are some of the best in the world. The Thule Ridgeline bike hitch, additionally identified as the Thule 954 Ridgeline bike hitch is a superb bike carrier that can transport up to 4 bikes at a time. The Thule Ridgeline is a hitch mounted device which fits into a receiver hitch on your vehicle, either in a 2 inch or 1 1/4 inch size.
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Do not fall under the assumption that all hitch type mounts are equal. Just as in other products, there is a variety of prices and quality differences. The less expensive models of bike hitches lets your bicycles hang from a couple of arms. These are typically found on trunk mounted carriers. The better and more expensive mounts such as the Thule Ridgeline use a different and much better system of a vibration and rattle free tray mount, akin to the type that you may find on a roof rack.
Although more costly, this convenient bike transporter allows the rack to either swing away or tilt down so you can have easy and hassle free access to the rear door and cargo area of your vehicle. When you're not carrying your bicycles with you, the Thule has a great feature using their hitch switch rapid-release lever that allows for the bike rack arms to conveniently fold down and out of the way. This feature shortens the length at the rear of your vehicle substantially to make for easier garage parking and the like. A built in security will insure locking system that your bikes will still be there when you get back.
The only downside to a hitch mounted bike rack is that you need to have a hitch already installed on your vehicle. Many trucks and SUV's have hitch mounts but not too many cars have them. The additional expense of having to get a hitch installed on your vehicle may make the expense of these types of carriers out of reach for you. As with any rear mounted hitch, rearward visibility can be adversely affected, especially when trying to park in a tight parking space.
No matter what you decide to do, be a smart shopper. Check out all the various types of bike racks that are available for your bikes, and type of vehicle. You have many different alternatives and choices available to you, from the style of the rack to number of bikes that can be carried.
Find out more about the Thule Ridgeline bike hitch here