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Outdoor recreation equipment: Thule EasyFold XT 3 Bike Rack vs. YETI Tundra 45 Cooler

Quick Verdict

The Thule EasyFold XT 3 Bike Rack is a premium solution for transporting bikes with a focus on security, ease of use, and foldability. The YETI Tundra 45 Cooler is a high-end cooler designed for maximum ice retention and durability, with bear-resistant features. The choice depends on whether you need to transport bikes or keep items cold.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeThule EasyFold XT 3 Bike RackYETI Tundra 45 Cooler
NameThule EasyFold XT 3 Bike RackYETI Tundra 45 Cooler
Carrying capacity3 bikes (extendable to 4 with additional rail)Holds 54 cans (only), 26-28 cans with 2:1 ice-to-can ratio, or 37 lbs of ice (only).
Weight capacityMaximum 30 kg per bike, total 60 kgNot available
Mounting styleTowbar/hitch mounted (50mm ISO compliant towball, swan-neck or alko towball)Not available
Foldability and storage dimensionsFully foldable, 31 x 83 x 86 cmNot available
Locking mechanismLocks bikes to rack and rack to vehicle, detachable bike arms with lockable Thule AcuTight torque limiter knobsBear-resistant design approved by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) when used with extra-long shank Master Lock padlocks.
CompatibilityE-bikes, mountain bikes, fat bikes (with optional XXL Fatbike Wheel Straps), frame dimensions 22-80mm, max tire width 3" (4.7" with XXL Fatbike Wheel Straps), max wheel size 29", max wheelbase 1300mmNot available
Material and durabilityAluminum, tested at Thule Test Center in SwedenRotomolded polyethylene construction, UV-resistant.
Cooler insulation type and ice retention timeNot availableUp to 3 inches of PermaFrost insulation, pressure-injected polyurethane foam. FatWall design (up to 2 inches in walls/bottom, 3 inches in lid). Ice can last for days, with some tests showing retention up to 10 days.
Dimensions and internal volumeNot availableExternal: 25.6" L x 15.9" W x 15.5" H (some sources vary). Internal: 18.3" L x 9.4" W x 10.7" H (some sources vary). Internal Volume: 32.9 liters (approximately 34-37 quarts).
PortabilityIntegrated transport wheels and carrying handleDoubleHaul Handles (military-grade polyester rope), LipGrip handles, BearFoot non-slip feet.
Warranty periodGenerally 2 years (extendable to 5 years)5-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
PriceVaries depending on the retailerPrices vary, ranging from around $275 to $325. Some retailers list higher prices.

Overall Comparison

Thule: Carries 3 bikes (60kg total), folds to 31x83x86cm. YETI: Holds 54 cans, 32.9L volume, ice retention up to 10 days, costs $275-$325.

Pros and Cons

Thule EasyFold XT 3 Bike Rack

Pros:
  • Easy to mount on the tow ball
  • Bikes are secured with wheel straps with pump buckles and detachable bike arms with lockable AcuTight knobs
  • Tilting function allows trunk/tailgate access with bikes mounted
  • Locking system secures bikes to the rack and the rack to the towbar
  • Fully foldable for convenient storage
Cons:
  • No major disadvantages reported.

YETI Tundra 45 Cooler

Pros:
  • Certified bear-resistant (when locked)
  • Excellent ice retention
  • Rugged rotomolded construction
  • Leak-proof Vortex Drain System
Cons:
  • No major disadvantages reported.

User Experiences and Feedback