Best Thule Towbar Bike Racks in NZ - EasyFold 3 vs OutPace vs Epos vs VeloSpace
Looking for the best Thule towbar bike rack in NZ? Towbar-mounted bike racks remain the most practical solution for carrying bikes - especially electric bikes, MTBs, and family setups.
Below, we break down the key differences between the Thule EasyFold 3, OutPace, Epos, and VeloSpace - including weight ratings, ramp options, towball compatibility, and which model suits different bike setups.
Quick Comparison – Thule Towbar Bike Racks
| Model | Max Capacity | Ramp Available | Expandable | Towball Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OutPace | 25kg per bike | No | No | Works on all towballs | Lightweight, easy removal |
| EasyFold 3 | 60kg total | Yes | Yes (+1 bike adapter) | 50mm ISO only | E-bikes & compact storage |
| Epos | 60kg total | Yes | No | 50mm ISO only | Maximum frame adjustability |
| VeloSpace XT | 60kg total | Yes | Yes (+1 bike adapter) | 50mm ISO only | Long wheelbase & wide spacing |
All of these Thule models:
- Tilt with bikes loaded
- Lock bikes to the rack
- Lock the rack to the towbar (locks included)
- Use secure wheel pump buckles
Which Thule Towbar Rack Is Best for E-Bikes?
If you're regularly carrying electric bikes, weight capacity and loading method matter most.
Thule EasyFold 3 is usually the easiest “set and forget” option for e-bikes: 60kg total capacity, loading ramp available, and it folds up small for storage.
Thule Epos is also 60kg total with a ramp option, but its party trick is the super-adjustable telescopic arms (handy if you’ve got odd frames, step-throughs, or you’re picky about clamp placement).
Thule VeloSpace XT is still a great e-bike/family option too - wide chassis, generous 25cm spacing, and it’s expandable (with a +1 bike adapter) if you want to run 3-4 bikes.
Thule OutPace is capped at 25kg per bike and has no ramp option - better suited to lighter bikes, or riders who value easy rack removal and broad towball compatibility.
EasyFold 3 vs OutPace - Which One Makes More Sense?
EasyFold 3
- 60kg total capacity (same chassis for 2 and 3 bike)
- Ramp available - ideal if you’re loading heavier e-bikes regularly
- Vertical hoop + hybrid clamp using the same pump-buckle style as Epos
- Quick-release arm helps make the second bike easier to load
- Folds up compact for storage
- Expandable (+1 bike adapter sold separately)
- 50mm ISO ball only
OutPace
- 25kg per bike - plenty for most standard bikes, but not aimed at the heaviest e-bikes
- Lightweight - easier to lift on/off if you remove your rack often
- Newer arm-style mounting (similar to Epos) with pump buckles on the wheels
- Folds up tight to the vehicle when parked to keep it out of the way
- Works on all towball sizes (this has been a big one for a lot of customers)
If you're regularly loading heavier bikes or e-bikes every week, EasyFold 3 is usually the better long-term pick. If you want a simple and lighter option that works on basically any towball, OutPace is hard to beat.
Where the Epos fits in
- 60kg total capacity (same for 2 and 3 bike versions)
- Telescopic adjustable arms
- Pivoting clamp heads that can rotate to suit awkward frames
- Clamps almost anywhere on the frame (including front of the rear wheel)
- Loading ramp available
- 50mm ISO towball only
Epos is the flagship option. If you’ve got unusual frame shapes, multiple different bikes in the household, or you want maximum flexibility in clamp positioning, Epos gives you the most adjustment range of the lineup.
VeloSpace XT - a Solid & Wallet-Friendly Option
- 60kg total capacity (same for 2 and 3 bike versions)
- 25cm spacing between bikes
- Wide chassis for long wheelbase bikes (up to 1300mm)
- Oversized hoop for easier mounting
- Expandable with +1 bike adapter
It’s slightly bulkier than the newer chassis models, but remains a reliable solution for larger bikes and family use.
Still Unsure?
If you’re unsure which model suits your bikes or vehicle, get in touch. We’re happy to talk through weight limits, fitment, and real-world use before you commit.
