Longest bike on a Thule Outride 561?

[Dammit]

I'm off to the Alps on Saturday, Covid permitting. I was going to put the bikes on the roof, but looking at the specifications the Thule says that the maximum wheelbase permitted is 112 cm, and the new bike that I'm picking up tomorrow has a wheelbase of 127cm.

That's quite a bit over the limit - so I wanted to ask if anyone else had successfully put a bike of similar length on said rack?

[Chester draws]

Given no other replies yet I'll offer you my unqualified opinion!



As you say max 1120mm, so you're 150mm beyond that. Not sure if I'd trust the included wheel strap at that overhang. (If it even reaches?).

Given the front is fixed by the fork, I'd guess that the rear just needs to be held down, presuming an MTB(?) with a knobbly tyre, I'd suggest a small ratchet strap (or two) over the chain stays could probably suffice.

Obviously, with caveats of check it before leaving and at regular intervals en route.

[joshleb]

I imagine you'll have a 15mm front axle rather than 9mm QR, would expect more rigidity through that so more support there.

Strap it down, maybe deflate tyre a bit so can crank it in and you'll be good to go. Just don't go full James Bond up the mountain hairpins!

[Dammit]

Sadly the announcement last night has potentially scuppered tomorrows drive to Morzine.

I’m trying to find a travel insurance company that will cover me for mountain biking against FCO advice.

On the carrier front- a friend suggested rotating the forks to make the bike shorter, so I’ll give that a go before reaching for the ratchet straps.