The THULE Vertex Swing Away 9031XT is a bicycle carrier designed for vehicle attachment, offering a range of features for secure and convenient bicycle transportation, as well as easy access to the vehicle's rear compartment.
Function Description
The primary function of the Vertex Swing Away 9031XT is to securely transport multiple bicycles on the rear of a vehicle, typically via a hitch receiver. It is designed to hold bikes firmly in place, minimizing sway and potential damage during transit. A key feature is its "swing away" capability, which allows the entire rack, with or without bikes, to pivot away from the vehicle, providing unobstructed access to the rear hatch, trunk, or cargo area without having to remove the bicycles or the rack from the hitch. This is particularly useful for accessing luggage, groceries, or other items stored in the vehicle's rear.
The carrier utilizes a combination of a stinger assembly and an upright assembly, which are connected to form the main structure. Bicycles are mounted onto cradles on the upright assembly, secured by various straps and anti-sway cages. The design emphasizes stability and ease of use, with components engineered to hold bikes securely while offering quick loading and unloading.
Usage Features
The Vertex Swing Away 9031XT incorporates several features to enhance its usability:
- Easy Assembly and Installation: The quick start guide outlines a straightforward assembly process, beginning with attaching the swing arm and upright assembly. The carrier then installs into a vehicle's hitch receiver using a bolt, washer, and lock washer, which are tightened with provided Thule tools.
- Bike Loading Sequence: For optimal stability, users are instructed to load the heaviest bike first, positioning it with the handlebars facing the passenger side of the vehicle. This helps distribute weight evenly and maintain balance.
- Alternate Bike Direction: The manual suggests alternating bike direction when loading multiple bicycles. This practice helps prevent handlebars, pedals, and other bike components from interfering with each other, ensuring a snug and secure fit for all bikes.
- Secure Bike Attachment: Bicycles are secured to the rack using rubber straps that fasten around the bike frames and the rack's cradles. Additionally, a black safety strap is threaded through the bike frames and around the mast of the rack, providing an extra layer of security against movement or accidental detachment.
- Anti-Sway Cages: The carrier includes anti-sway cages that attach to the underside of specific cradles. These cages are designed to hold the bike frames firmly, preventing them from swaying or contacting each other during transit, thereby protecting both the bikes and the vehicle. They are positioned with a smooth edge facing down and slide onto the anti-sway extension/cradle, then swing down to secure against the bicycle frame.
- Rear Compartment Access (Swing Away Function): This is a standout feature. To access the vehicle's rear, a hold-open pin is removed, and a lower locking handle is loosened. The bottom half of the bike arm assembly is then pushed open, allowing the upright assembly to rotate away from the vehicle. A lock-up pin engages a bracket when fully open, preventing the carrier from swinging closed unexpectedly. This allows full access to the vehicle's rear without removing the rack or bikes.
- Closing the Carrier: To close the carrier, the hold-open pin is removed, allowing the upper arm assembly to rotate back. The carrier is then pushed closed until the lock-up pin clicks into the closed position. It is crucial to tighten the lower locking handle firmly before driving to ensure the carrier is securely locked in place.
- Transporting the Carrier: The carrier is designed with a handhold at the back, making it easy to handle and carry when not attached to the vehicle.
- Locking Mechanisms: The carrier offers multiple security options. It includes a lock cylinder and keys for locking end caps, preventing unauthorized removal of certain components. For additional bike security, users can employ a cable lock to secure bikes to the carrier. Furthermore, an optional Snug-Tite™ Receiver Lock (STL2, sold separately) can be used to lock the carrier to the vehicle's hitch, deterring theft of the entire rack.
- Frame Adaptor Compatibility: For bikes without traditional top tubes (e.g., some women's bikes, full-suspension bikes, or BMX bikes), the manual recommends using a 982XT Frame Adaptor (sold separately) to ensure proper and secure mounting.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safe operation of the Vertex Swing Away 9031XT:
- Periodic Bolt and Knob Tightness Check: Users are advised to check the tightness of all bolts and knobs periodically, specifically every 6 months. This ensures that all connections remain secure and prevents components from loosening due to vibrations or use.
- Rubber Strap Inspection and Replacement: The rubber straps used to secure bicycles are subject to wear and tear. Users should regularly inspect these straps for any signs of damage, cracking, or degradation. Worn straps should be replaced promptly to maintain secure bike attachment and prevent potential accidents.
Important Usage Restrictions (DO NOTs):
The manual also clearly outlines several restrictions to ensure safe operation and prevent damage:
- No Trailer Installation: The carrier should not be installed on a trailer or any other towed vehicle.
- Hitch Class Limitations: Do not put more than 2 bikes on a Class 1 hitch.
- Strap Overstretching: Avoid "overstretching" the straps, as this can damage them and compromise bike security.
- Off-Road Use: The rack should not be used while traveling on dirt roads, as excessive vibrations and impacts can damage the rack, bikes, or vehicle.
- Tandem/Recumbent Bikes: The rack is not designed to carry tandems or recumbents.
- Exceeding Capacity: Do not put more than the intended number of bikes on the rack.
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