How to stop bike cradles from moving on a hitch rack

When using the Thule Roadway 4-bike hitch rack, the bikes tend to shift and move up and down the arms. This will help with shifting.

293
STEPS
TOOLS

Got tools?

Got tools?

We will be making 6 spacers total (3 per side) to place between the cradles.

We will be making 6 spacers total (3 per side) to place between the cradles.

Move the cradles to the hitch end of the arm and measure the distance between the end cap and first cradle. The 4 bike hitch measures approx. 10 1/4".

Move the cradles to the hitch end of the arm and measure the distance between the end cap and first cradle. The 4 bike hitch measures approx. 10 1/4".

10 1/4" divided by 3 spacers, equals approx. 3 3/8". This will be the length of each spacer.

10 1/4" divided by 3 spacers, equals approx. 3 3/8". This will be the length of each spacer.

Remove the cap from the hitch arm.

Remove the cap from the hitch arm.

Remove 3 of the 4 cradles.

Remove 3 of the 4 cradles.

Using the combination square measure, mark, and cut a 3 1/8" piece. Repeat for each spacer.

Using the combination square measure, mark, and cut a 3 1/8" piece. Repeat for each spacer.

3 spacers cut for one arm of the rack.

3 spacers cut for one arm of the rack.

3 spacers and 4 cradles attached. Sorry could not fit the 4th cradles in the pic.

3 spacers and 4 cradles attached. Sorry could not fit the 4th cradles in the pic.

Make sure the end cap hole lines up.

Make sure the end cap hole lines up.

Attach the end cap with the screw and you're done.

Attach the end cap with the screw and you're done.

Finished product. Beer me!  Thinking of dyeing or painting the spacers, leave me some feedback and let me know what you think.

Finished product. Beer me! Thinking of dyeing or painting the spacers, leave me some feedback and let me know what you think.

Finally got around to taking a picture of it finished with flat black paint.

  • Phillips screwdriver
  • PVC pipe cutter
  • Combination square
  • Pencil or other marking device
  • 1" PVC Pipe