Roof bike rack for cars, engineered to secure bicycles quickly and safely on compatible roof bars. Offering automatic bike positioning and protective, pressure-spreading claws, Thule ProRide 598 Roof Bike Rack helps keep frames unmarked and reduces loading stress for regular cyclists. Is the secure hold and durable construction the right choice for frequent riders?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Mounting Action: Automatic bike positioning with torque-limiter controlled frame clamping and adaptive soft claw pads
- • Best for: Cyclists who need secure, repeatable roof mounting for regular journeys
- • Not ideal for: Frames outside 22–80 mm round or over 80×100 mm oval dimensions
Automatic frame alignment speeds and simplifies loading. Torque limiter and soft claw pads reduce the risk of frame damage during clamping.
Quicker, more reliable loading – thanks to automatic frame positioning
A uniquely shaped frame holder and a dedicated wheel tray align the bicycle as the clamp closes, so the frame meets the clamp in the correct position without manual fiddling. The wheel tray holds the wheel steady while the frame holder guides the tube into place.
Swift alignment reduces time on the roof and lowers the chance of awkward, unstable mounts. Regular use becomes less stressful and more consistent for commuters and weekend riders.
Frame protection during clamping – with a torque limiter and soft claws
A torque limiter dial controls the clamping force, stopping over-tightening, while large, soft claw pads spread pressure across frame tubes and adapt to different shapes. The claws are designed to cradle tubes rather than concentrate force on a single point.
Careful clamping reduces the likelihood of scratches or dents on delicate frames. Owners of lightweight or coated frames benefit from gentler, safer contact.
Stable wheel retention on the move – with dedicated wheel holders and straps
Wheel holders secure the wheels in a shaped cradle, and diagonal quick-release wheel straps lock the tyre and rim firmly against the tray. An extended lower jaw on the claw prevents the bike from slipping during the mounting process.
Firm wheel fixation prevents wobble and shifting in transit, improving safety and cutting noise from movement. Longer trips feel more secure with wheels held tightly in place.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Thule ProRide 598 Roof Bike Rack
- Fast, straightforward installation – Easy fit on most roof bars, reducing setup time
- Diagonal quick-release wheel straps – Keeps wheels firmly fixed for wobble-free journeys
- Robust build quality – Designed for frequent use and long-term durability
- Pressure-spreading soft claws – Minimises frame marks while ensuring a secure clamp
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Automotive Parts and Accessories
- Brand: Thule
- Model: ProRide 598
- Fit type: Roof bike rack
- Frame compatibility: Round frames 22–80 mm, Oval frames up to 80×100 mm
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the rack fit my bike frame?
A: Check round frame tubes between 22 and 80 mm, or oval tubes up to 80×100 mm; frames outside these dimensions will not fit safely.
Q: How does the rack avoid damaging delicate frames?
A: A torque limiter dial prevents over-tightening while large, soft claw pads spread pressure across the tube to minimise the risk of marks or dents.
Q: Are the wheels held securely during travel?
A: Wheel holders lock the wheels in a shaped tray and diagonal quick-release straps keep the wheels firmly fixed for stable transport.
🏆 Our Verdict
Suited to regular cyclists who load bikes onto car roofs and value repeatable, frame-friendly mounting. The automatic positioning, torque limiter and adaptive claw pads together make for safer, more confident transport. Though an upfront outlay may be larger than cheaper alternatives, long-term durability and consistent protection make it a practical investment for frequent users.
