Comments on: Thule STL2 Snug-Tite Lock One Key System Locking Hitch Pin

By: Eric S.

Eric S. — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 17:30:42 +0000

Thule should redesign this product or offer alternatives. This product is rather expensive for what it is.

I purchased one for my rack and lost it on my second outing. My problem is that the lock can't be locked without the key. I kept the bike lock keys in the glove compartment. I mounted the hitch converter (to 2") and locked it on. I then put the rack on and tightened the pin with the supplied wrench but I forgot to grab the keys for the Thule lock. So I set the lock in place loaded the bikes and I forgot to get the key to lock it. So I lost it in the road. My mistake but the product design could be better to help prevent this.

If I buy another one I'll put the lock in my pocket if I don't have the key but a lock that will snap on without the key would have saved me from myself or a wire attached to a washer and the lock cylinder so that it would hang down but can't fall off if it's not locked would have also helped me.

I would suggest that Thule should offer a combination lock version. Thus you are never without the key. Rating: 2 / 5

By: VP

VP — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:48:14 +0000

This lock works great in locking your bike rack to your hitch. It’s easy to remove with a key, and a must for those who keeps their bike rack on their vehicles.
Rating: 5 / 5

By: Bikedawg

Bikedawg — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:12:08 +0000

I had to reluctantly replace my old Sportworks rack (moved and had no room to transport it)and found that the simple hitch pin/theft deterrent system Sportworks used has not been carried over by Thule. Instead Thule supplies a 12mm x 40mm short threaded bolt. Then I discovered that Thule wants $50 for a hitch pin bolt w/a cheesy looking yuppie lock “system”.

Sporkworks utilized a simple and practical partially threaded hex head bolt w/a hole on opposite end for attaching a small padlock or cotter pin, simple easy, no rattle w/lock washer and impossible for the pin to completely back off.

So I purchased a 12mm dia x 80mm long partially threaded bolt $2.25 that would extend thru the receiver, drilled a hole (you’ll want a drill press) that would accommodate a small padlock $1.50 and presto I had an IMO a secure, rattle free “locking hitch pin”. The benefit is the bolt extends thru the receiver so the lock is on the opposite side in the event the bolt unthreads it will not come out due to the pad lock and you will not loose your rack & bikes on the road.

I am disappointed that Thule did not provide this type of simple bolt set up like Sportworks did as original equipment. The Snug-Tite one key could have remained an option for those who care about such things but a $400.00 rack should come w/a a basic securing system that has a lock & loss prevention capability. Thinking about it I’ve never seen a hitch pin that did not extend thru the receiver so a cotter pin could not be used to prevent pin loss.

If I had to do it over I’d buy a KUAT brand Sherpa or better the NV, they come complete w/integrated hitch & bike locks for the same price, the NV has a built in repair stand. Anybody want to buy my once used Thule T-2?

Rating: 1 / 5

By: Ricardo Aguilar-chavez

Ricardo Aguilar-chavez — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:11:28 +0000

This is a very essential piece after purchasing a Thule bike rack. Secures bike rack, easy to install/remove. Highly recommended and well worth the price.
Rating: 5 / 5

By: Daniel Fink

Daniel Fink — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 14:25:22 +0000

The rating is for what was shipped.

The lock itself gets 5 stars from me. I have had a STL Snug-Tite lock for several years and like it very much. Unfortunately, the lock came off (my fault) though the bolt portion is still very securely attached (even after taking it on some rough 4wd roads in Colorado). So I ordered a new one for the locking mechanism.

However, what Amazon shipped is the STL2 Snug-Tite (which I can get locally). If you want the STL, don't order this one as you may not get what you ordered. I requested a replacement with the correct one and asked that they confirm it was the correct one. Unfortunately, they shipped the wrong one again. Rating: 1 / 5