Thule EasyFold XT with Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5 (Carbon MTB) – Questions

sagrules on 06/07/2025 - 10:00

Hi All,

I'm considering purchasing the Thule EasyFold XT to carry my Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5, which has a carbon frame.

I’d really appreciate some feedback from anyone who has experience using this rack with a carbon MTB:

Is it safe to clamp the carbon frame, or is it possible to clamp the seat post?

Is it possible (and secure) to lock the bike to the rack using a U-lock?

How easy is it to mount and unmount the rack from the car?

Any compatibility issues or quirks when using this rack with a Subaru Outback (MY2025)?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Automotive Thule

Comments

  • Sneaky1 on 06/07/2025 - 10:27

    New car, carbon bike… What are you doing on OZB?

    • brendanm on 06/07/2025 - 11:13

      I couldn't see any mention of a new car.

      • BenTennyson on 06/07/2025 - 15:02

        Mentions having a 2025 Subaru Outback.

        • brendanm on 06/07/2025 - 15:09

          Ah ok, possibly in the weirdly formatted section that I can't seem to see the ends of.

  • brendanm on 06/07/2025 - 11:13

    I wouldn't. Use one of the racks that clamps the wheels/tyres.

  • Euphemistic on 06/07/2025 - 11:23

    As it holds most of the weight at the wheels, it shouldnt hurt the carbon frame, except for rubbing and scratching. Problem with carbon frames is that they are able to be designed for minimum thickness where strength isnt required, such as the walls of a top tube, so you just dont know. Maybe contact trek to ask if that model can be clamped in that way.

    I would much prefer a different clamping method. One that clamps either only on the wheels, or maybe the seatpost.

  • apple2016 on 06/07/2025 - 13:31

    I think there is a thule carbon frame adapter. Never used it so cant say of any good

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