Our guide to Fiamma and Thule bike racks

Author: Your RV Good Guide  

 

Heading out on an RV road trip is always an adventure, bringing your bikes along can make it even more awesome. In this handy guide, we take a look at the two main RV bike rack options: Fiamma bike racks and Thule bike racks. We’ll share everything you need to know to help you pick the perfect match for your motorhome. 

Whether you're all about hitting New Zealand’s awesome cycling trails or just like a relaxed ride, we're here to help.

 

putting bikes on bike rack behind camper

 

Why you should get a bike rack for your RV

There's something special about exploring the great New Zealand outdoors by bike. Installing a bike rack on your RV opens up endless possibilities, letting you take your bikes wherever you go. Plus, you'll rest easy knowing they’re safe and secure while you're on the move.

With a camper bike rack, every stop on your road trip becomes a chance to discover something new. Head off on a beautiful trail or explore the streets of a quaint little Kiwi town you’re passing through.

Whether you're a cycling pro or enjoy a chilled-out pedal, having a bike rack is a game-changer for your RV adventures. It's all about convenience, accessibility, and the freedom to check out cool spots on two wheels. 

 

All about Thule bike racks

Thule is a well-known brand in the world of bike racks, recognised for their commitment to quality and innovation. They offer a range of RV bike racks that cater to different motorhoming styles and needs. 

For those who prefer e-bikes, Thule has tailored options to suit both e-bikes and traditional bikes, ensuring every cyclist's needs are met. For example, the Thule Elite G2 bike rack is ideal for e-bikes with a maximum load capacity of 60 kg. 

For caravan owners, Thule offers a range of caravan draw bar-mounted racks ranging in load capacity from the Thule A Frame Caravan Light Bike Rack to the Thule Caravan Superb rack suitable for e-bikes. 

A standout in their collection is the Thule Veloslide Bike Rack. It's a nifty solution for European motorhomes such as the Laika, designed to fit neatly into the boot space. This rack is particularly convenient for those with external boot-style storage lockers, offering a space-saving and efficient way to transport your bikes. 

 

 

All about Fiamma bike racks

Fiamma is a well-respected name in the RV accessory world, especially known for their high-quality outdoor gear. Their range of RV bike racks is specifically designed to complement motorhomes and caravans. 

The rear-mounted bike racks from Fiamma are not just robust; they also boast an elegant design, ensuring your bikes are securely attached to the back of your RV in style.

For caravan travellers, Fiamma several options ranging from the lightweight Fiamma Carry Bike XL-A model to the Fiamma Carry-Bike Active E, perfect for ebikes. 

In the past, Fiamma manufactured specialised racks for regular bikes and for e-bikes. Now, they're streamlining their approach, combining the best features of each into a single, more efficient rack. This innovative design can support a total weight of 60 kg, making it versatile enough to carry either two e-bikes or up to four regular bikes. This move by Fiamma simplifies the choice for RV enthusiasts, offering a single, adaptable solution for different biking needs. 

 

What’s the difference between Thule and Fiamma bike racks?

Choosing the right campervan bike rack for your RV can be a bit of a puzzle. Thule and Fiamma are both top players in the game, but they each have their unique strengths and specialities. Let's break down the differences to help you decide which brand fits your RV lifestyle best.

 

Mounting options and versatility

 

Thule bike racks

Thule really shines with its wide array of mounting options. They offer hitch-mounted racks for secure transportation at the rear, trunk-mounted options, and the innovative Veloslide option. 

This range of choices means RVers can pick the rack that best suits their vehicle's configuration and personal preferences. Whether you have a compact campervan or a spacious motorhome, Thule has a solution that will work seamlessly with your setup.

 

Fiamma bike racks

Fiamma, on the other hand, specialises in rear-mounted bike racks. They focus on creating simple yet elegant solutions, perfect for the back of motorhomes and caravans. 

Fiamma's racks are robust and reliable, but if you're looking for the variety of mounting options that Thule offers, you might find Fiamma's range a bit more limited.

Both Thule and Fiamma understand the importance of ease when it comes to loading bikes onto the rack. They each offer options that lower the bikes towards the ground, reducing the effort needed to lift them. This attention to detail in design reflects both brands' commitment to making your RVing experience as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.

 

Design and aesthetics

When it comes to the look and feel of bike racks, both Thule and Fiamma have their unique approaches, balancing aesthetics with functionality.

 

Thule bike racks

Thule bike racks are a blend of sleek, aerodynamic designs and modern aesthetics. They're not just about getting your bikes from A to B; they're about doing it in style. 

Thule racks are designed to be visually appealing, adding a touch of sophistication to your RV. They prioritise making sure their racks don't just perform well but also enhance the overall look of your vehicle. It's this combination of functionality and style that sets Thule apart in the design department.

 

Fiamma bike racks

Fiamma takes a slightly different approach. Their design philosophy leans more towards simplicity and reliability. Fiamma's racks are built to be sturdy and secure, focusing primarily on functionality. They might not have the sleekness of Thule's designs, but there's a timeless elegance in their practicality. 

Fiamma's designs are about straightforward functionality, ensuring your bikes are transported safely and efficiently, without unnecessary frills. This practical elegance is what gives Fiamma its charm and reliability.

 

Vehicle-specific focus

Both Thule and Fiamma have distinct approaches when it comes to the vehicles they cater to with their bike racks, each with its own advantages.

 

Thule bike racks

Thule's bike racks are designed with a wide range of users in mind. They're not just for RVs; Thule caters to various types of vehicles, including cars. This universal approach allows Thule to offer versatile solutions that can adapt to different modes of transportation. 

Whether you're driving a compact car for a day trip or taking your RV on a cross-country adventure, Thule has a bike rack that fits your needs. This flexibility is a big plus for those who might use their bike racks across different vehicles.

 

Fiamma bike racks

Fiamma, on the other hand, has a more targeted focus. Their specialisation in rear-mounted racks for motorhomes and caravans shows a deep understanding of the RV lifestyle. 

Fiamma's dedication to this niche means their racks are specifically designed to meet the unique needs and dimensions of recreational vehicles. This focused approach ensures that if you're an RVer, a Fiamma rack is likely to fit your vehicle perfectly, taking into account the specific requirements and constraints of motorhomes and caravans. 

 

Ease of use and installation

When it comes to setting up and using RV bike racks, both Thule and Fiamma understand the importance of simplicity and user-friendliness.

 

Thule bike racks

Thule bike racks are celebrated for their user-friendly design and straightforward installation process. The brand puts a strong emphasis on features that make loading and unloading bikes a breeze. This approach is particularly beneficial for those who might not be mechanically inclined or who prefer a hassle-free setup. 

Thule's design philosophy ensures that their racks are accessible and easy to use for a wide range of users, regardless of their experience or expertise in handling bike racks.

 

Fiamma bike racks

Similarly, Fiamma bike racks are designed with user convenience at the forefront. They offer easy installation processes, which means you won't be spending hours trying to figure out how to attach the rack to your vehicle. 

The loading and unloading process is also straightforward, reducing the effort and time required to get your bikes ready for the road. Fiamma's focus on simplicity and practicality resonates well with the practical needs of RVers, who often prefer equipment that is efficient and easy to handle, especially when on the move.

 

The decision: Thule or Fiamma?

Deciding between Thule and Fiamma bike racks is a matter of considering what fits best with your RVing lifestyle. It's about balancing your preferences in mounting options, the design aesthetics you prefer, how well the rack suits your specific vehicle, and the importance of ease of use.

Thule offers a broad range of mounting options, sleek designs, and a universal approach that caters to various vehicles. If you value versatility and a modern aesthetic, Thule might be your go-to choice. 

On the other hand, Fiamma specialises in rear-mounted racks for motorhomes and caravans, focusing on simplicity, reliability, and a design that's both practical and elegant. If your priority is a product tailored specifically for RVs with straightforward functionality, Fiamma could be the ideal match.

Ultimately, the choice between Thule and Fiamma comes down to which brand aligns more closely with your RVing needs and preferences. Both brands offer quality and reliability, but their different approaches to design, versatility, and vehicle specificity mean that one might suit your RV lifestyle better than the other.

 

Need more help choosing or installing your RV bike rack?

If you're still pondering over the perfect bike rack for your RV or need some guidance on installation, don't worry – we've got you covered. Check out these handy guides that offer in-depth information and tips:

 

 

Pick the right RV bike rack for your motorhome at RV Super Centre

If you're ready to pick the perfect bike rack or need a bit more guidance, your local RV Super Centre is your one-stop shop. 

Our friendly team are always on hand to offer expert advice on which bike rack will suit your needs best. Plus, we don't just help you choose – we can take care of the installation too, ensuring a hassle-free, professional experience from start to finish. 

Let us help you make your next RV adventure even more enjoyable with the perfect bike rack solution.

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