Transporting electric bikes by car needs more than enough spaces on the rack. Each bike must fit its holder, remain within the individual weight limit and keep the whole installation within the vehicle and carrier limits.
Write down the limits before loading
| Limit | Where to find it | What to compare |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum weight for each bike | Exact carrier manual | Actual loaded weight of the heaviest bike |
| Total bike payload | Carrier manual and fitted accessory instructions | Combined weight of all bikes and carried items |
| Vehicle support limit | Vehicle and towbar or roof system documents | Carrier weight plus the load it places on that support |
| Wheel and tire fit | Wheel holder, strap and adapter specifications | Tire width, wheel size and wheelbase |
| Frame attachment | Carrier instructions and bike construction | Approved clamping location and secure access |
Use the lowest applicable limit. Do not average two bike weights to pass an individual bike limit. Extra rails, adapters or longer straps do not automatically increase rated capacity.
Work through one complete load calculation
This is an illustrative example, not an approved combination. Suppose the carrier weighs 18 kg, its bike payload limit is 60 kg and its individual bike limit is 30 kg. Suppose the vehicle support limit is 75 kg.
The support leaves 75 minus 18 = 57 kg for the carried load. Two bikes weighing 29 kg each total 58 kg. Although 58 kg is below the carrier's 60 kg payload, carrier plus bikes totals 76 kg and exceeds the assumed vehicle limit. The combination fails.
Now suppose one bike weighs 32 kg and another weighs 24 kg. Their total of 56 kg passes the assumed payload and support checks, but the 32 kg bike exceeds the assumed 30 kg individual limit. That combination also fails. All limits need to pass at the same time.
Apply the check to the bike you own
XT90 is listed at approximately 29 kg and does not fold. Weigh the actual bike with the accessories it will carry rather than treating the catalogue figure as an exact loaded measurement. X5 uses 20 × 4 inch tires, so standard wheel trays and straps need particular attention.
F6 Pro and X5 have removable batteries. Remove them for transport only when the bike instructions and transport arrangement permit it, then secure and protect them as directed. Do not dismantle an internal XT90 or GT900 battery simply to reach the carrier limit.
Check the physical installation
- Confirm the exact car, carrier and any adapters are compatible.
- Secure wheels and frame only at the points specified in the carrier instructions.
- Remove or secure loose accessories as instructed.
- Check clearance, vehicle lights, number plate visibility and access around the load.
- Follow the carrier instructions for rechecking fixings during the journey.
For travel inside the car, confirm that the load can be restrained safely and cannot move into occupants. Folding dimensions answer whether the package fits, not whether it is safely secured.
Sources and scope
Reviewed 28 October 2026. Thule carrier instructions illustrate why product limits, attachment and vehicle clearance must be checked. That manual describes one carrier, not universal compatibility or approval for ARSK bikes.
