Carry More, Ride More: Your Guide to Thule Bike Carriers
If you’re planning a cycling trip, whether it’s a Sunday trail ride or a full-blown bike holiday, getting your bikes from home to the trailhead can be half the challenge. That’s where a Thule bike carrier comes in. But with multiple mounting types and models, choosing the right one can feel tricky.
Thule’s 2026 range is divided into three main types: roof-mounted, towbar-mounted, and rear-mounted carriers. Each type is designed for different users and situations. Let’s break them down.
Roof-Mounted Carriers: Lightweight and Affordable
Roof-mounted carriers attach your bike to the top of your car using your existing roof bars. They’re generally lightweight, easy to store, and ideal for solo riders or couples. The main drawback is that you need to lift your bike onto the roof, which can be challenging for heavier bikes like e-bikes or mountain bikes.
Popular models include:
- Thule ProRide 598: a premium upright roof-mounted carrier with secure frame clamping and award-winning design.
- Thule FreeRide 532: a budget-friendly option for occasional cyclists.
Key features:
- Affordable compared to other types
- Keeps boot and towbar free
- Ideal for lighter bikes and occasional use
- Requires lifting bikes onto the roof
Roof-mounted carriers are perfect if you want a simple, reliable solution without investing in a towbar system.
Towbar-Mounted Carriers: The All-Round Favourite
Towbar-mounted carriers sit on a platform behind your car, making loading and unloading much easier than roof-mounted systems. They are especially popular with families or frequent riders because they can carry multiple bikes and even heavy e-bikes safely.
Popular models include:
- Thule VeloCompact: a versatile, compact carrier suitable for families and regular cyclists.
- Thule EasyFold XT: a premium folding carrier designed for e-bikes and frequent use.
- Thule VeloSpace XT: a high-capacity carrier for large bikes, e-bikes, and extra gear.
Key features:
- Easy to load; no heavy lifting
- Supports multiple bikes, including e-bikes
- Stable and secure during travel
- Many models fold for storage
If you travel often with multiple bikes, a towbar-mounted carrier is usually the most practical choice.
Rear-Mounted Carriers: Flexible and Convenient
Rear-mounted carriers attach directly to your car’s boot or hatch, making them a great alternative if you don’t have a towbar or roof bars. They are easier to load than roof-mounted systems and generally more affordable than platform-style towbar carriers. However, they can block access to the boot.
Popular models include:
- Thule OutWay Hanging: a premium boot-mounted carrier with secure straps and cable locks.
- Thule HangOn: a budget-friendly carrier for casual use and multiple bikes.
Key features:
- No towbar required
- Easier loading than roof-mounted carriers
- More affordable than towbar systems
- May restrict access to the boot
Rear-mounted carriers are ideal for occasional cyclists who want flexibility without installing extra hardware.
Choosing the Right Carrier
When selecting a Thule bike carrier, consider how you ride and how often you transport your bikes.
- Occasional rider with a single bike: Roof-mounted options like FreeRide or ProRide are simple and affordable.
- Regular riders with multiple bikes: Towbar-mounted carriers like VeloCompact or EasyFold XT save time and effort.
- No towbar or limited setup: Rear-mounted carriers like OutWay Hanging offer convenience without extra installation.
Also consider bike type: heavier bikes, e-bikes, or mountain bikes usually benefit from towbar carriers due to easier loading and better weight distribution.
Need a little help
A Thule bike carrier isn’t just a way to transport bikes, it’s a tool to make your trips easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
- Want simplicity and affordability? Choose roof-mounted.
- Need convenience, stability, and versatility? Go for towbar-mounted.
- No towbar? Rear-mounted options are a great compromise.
We have a selection of bike carrier options available to view and play with in our showroom in Garstang, so if you want to see the products before purchase and talk through the options with one of our experts then we will be happy to advise on the best solution for your needs. Just drop us a message or give us a call.
