Looking to carry bikes without cramming them into the back seat, or strapping them on with a dodgy bungee cord?

If you're looking to carry e‑bikes, mountain bikes, or the family fleet, here’s a straight-up comparison of our top Thule racks - and which one suits your setup.

Towbar Mounted Racks

Towbar Bike Carriers are still the gold standard for hassle-free loading, especially for heavier bikes like e-MTBs or full-suspension rigs. They’re sturdy, quick to mount, and keep your gear low and easy to access. Most models include a tilt function, so you can still open the boot without having to unload everything.

• You want easy loading (no lifting bikes overhead)
• You’re carrying e-bikes or heavier bikes
• You prefer lower wind resistance compared to a roof-mounted setup
• You’ve already got a towbar – or are thinking about fitting one

Our Top Towbar Mounted Bike Racks

Thule Epos – King of Versatility

Thule Epos fits pretty much any bike frame – e-bikes, mountain bikes, kids bikes, roadies – and the arm system makes securing your bike dead easy. Fully tiltable, lockable, and compatible with fat tyres and fenders. It’s not the cheapest option, but it saves a lot of lifting and frustration. Buy once, cry once.

✅ Best for: E-bikes, all-frame shapes, premium setup
🚗 Mount type: Towbar
🛠️ Loads: 2 & 3 bike versions (up to 60kg total)
🔐 Includes locks for bikes and rack

Thule VeloSpace – E-Bike Ready

Thule VeloSpace is the go-to for heavy bikes. E-bike users love this one, especially with the optional loading ramp (no back injuries here). You can even chuck on the Thule BackSpace cargo box when you're not hauling bikes. 

✅ Best for: E-bikes, wide tyres, heavier setups
🚗 Mount type: Towbar
🛠️ Loads: 2 & 3 bike versions (up to 60kg total)
⚙️ Accessories: Loading ramp, cargo box

Roof Rack Mounted Racks

Roof-mounted bike carriers have a sleek, sporty look and are ideal if you’ve already got roof racks fitted. Having bikes up top leaves the rear of the car accessible, and easier to park without having anything hanging off the back. They’re perfect for sedans, wagons, and smaller SUVs with a lower loading height. Plus, if your towbar’s already spoken for by a trailer or caravan – the roof’s the way to go.

• You have roof racks on your vehicle
• Your vehicle has a lower roof height
• You need full access to the rear of the vehicle
• You want a sporty, classic look
• You need the towbar for something else

Our Top Roof Mounted Bike Racks

Thule UpRide – Frame-Free Contact

Thule UpRide grabs the wheels only – no contact with the bike frame – making it ideal for carbon frames and funky bike geometries. Great if you’ve already got a roof rack setup and want maximum frame protection.

✅ Best for: Carbon frames, odd frame shapes
🚗 Mount type: Roof racks (T-Track or clamp-on with adapter)
🛠️ Capacity: 1 bike per carrier – Max 20kg
🧽 Easy to remove when not in use

Thule ProRide – The Roof Classic

Thule ProRide is a rock-solid, entry-level roof-mounted carrier that holds your bike upright by the frame and wheel. If you’re happy lifting your bike overhead, it’s a reliable and affordable option.

✅ Best for: Standard road or MTB bikes
🚗 Mount type: Roof racks (T-Track or clamp-on with adapter)
🛠️ Capacity: 1 bike per carrier – Max 20kg
💡 Great value starter rack

Every Thule rack we carry is tested at the Thule Test Center™ for load, vibration, and durability — so you know your bikes are secure on NZ roads. Whether you're shuttling to the trails or road-tripping across the country, there’s a Thule rack to match.

FAQ – Choosing the Right Thule Bike Rack

Q: Can I use a Thule bike rack with an e‑bike?
A: Yep – Thule’s towbar-mounted options like the Epos and VeloSpace XT are e‑bike ready. They’re rated for heavier bikes and often come with ramps to make loading easier. Browse all options in our E-Bike Friendly Bike Rack Collection

Q: What’s the best Thule bike rack for carbon frames?
A: The Thule UpRide is ideal for carbon bikes – it only grips the wheels, so there's no frame contact at all.

Q: Do I need roof racks for a roof-mounted bike rack?
A: You sure do. Roof-mounted racks like the ProRide and UpRide attach to roof crossbars. If you don’t have a roof rack yet, check out our Roof Rack Collection