A roof rack needs crossbars first, and the crossbars can be the larger cost · review
A roof carrier that holds the bike by the front wheel with no contact on the frame at all, which is why Thule states it as suitable for carbon frames.
Our conclusion The carrier to choose for a carbon bike. Nothing touches the frame, which is the whole argument and a good one.
Thule’s UpRide solves one specific problem: how to carry an expensive bike on a roof without clamping its frame.
A wheel strap securing the rear wheel to the rail. Simple conversion of the carrier from one vehicle side to the other. Suitability for bikes with carbon frames. No contact with the bike frame, because the hook secures the front wheel.
Frame clamps squeeze a tube. Carbon frames carry manufacturer clamping limits, and several manufacturers prohibit clamping the frame at all. A carrier holding the bike by the front wheel and strapping the rear removes the question entirely — and it also means the carrier accepts frame shapes a clamp arm cannot reach.
A small but real convenience: roof carriers are usually handed, and swapping to the other side of the car normally means a partial disassembly. Being able to convert it makes carrying two bikes on one roof practical.
Crossbars, if you do not have them. Fuel at highway speed. And the height — over a meter added, which is what meets parking garage barriers. None of that is a criticism of this carrier; it is the format.
| Wheels | 20 to 29 in, tires up to 3 in wide (5 in with adapter) |
|---|---|
| Rack weight | 18.5 lb |
| Holding method | Front wheel hook, no frame contact |
| Carbon frames | Stated as suitable |
| Rear wheel | Strap securing to the rail |
| Side change | Convertible between vehicle sides |
A clamp squeezes the tube it holds. Carbon and thin-walled aluminum frames have manufacturer clamping limits, and some makers prohibit frame clamping outright. Holding by the wheel removes the question.
It is a roof carrier and needs crossbars. Confirm compatibility with your specific bars before ordering — this listing does not state a bar section range.
8.7/ 10
The carrier to choose for a carbon bike. Nothing touches the frame, which is the whole argument and a good one.
Carbon-framed road and gravel bikes, where a frame clamp is the thing you are trying to avoid.
Specifications: the manufacturer sheet for bike gear and the matching Amazon product page. Prices and availability: Keepa. Every figure on this page names its source.
1 bike · 35 lb · no wheel removal · fits crossbars to 3 in wide · 5 lb
An upright roof rack for one bike that leaves both wheels on, clamps the downtube with a lockable clamp and fits square, round and oval crossbars.
Best for: An alloy or steel bike under 35 lb on a car that already has crossbars.
≈ $74.99
2 bikes · 70 lb load · trunk mount · ships assembled · individual tie-downs
A two-bike trunk rack that needs no hitch and no crossbars, rated for 70 lb, with side straps for stability and padded lower frame arms.
Best for: A car with no hitch and no roof bars, carrying one or two regular bikes.
≈ $58.00
1 bike · folds into a supplied bag · individual frame holders
An ultra-compact trunk rack for one bike that folds into a supplied carry bag small enough for a backpack, with individual quick-install frame holders.
Best for: Travelers and commuters who need a rack that disappears when it is not in use.
≈ $89.99
Prices quoted in these summaries are dated readings. The live price is shown next to each product.
