Choosing a bike carrier: which one fits your car and bikes
You choose a bike carrier by your towbar, the weight of your bikes and how often you mount it. Here you calculate the nose weight, compare the Thule models and see what matters for electric bikes. At Kampeerwinkel Roermond we fit the carrier in the car park.
Towbar or tailgate, 2 or 3 bikes, suitable for e-bikes
Towbar, tailgate or roof?
- Towbar carrier: the most common. Sits firmly on the towball, loads low and carries heavy electric bikes. Downside: you need a towbar, and the number plate and lights must be on the carrier.
- Tailgate carrier: straps to the tailgate. Affordable and no towbar needed, but carries less weight (usually 2 bikes up to 15 kilos) and does not fit every car.
- Roof carrier: keeps the rear free, but you lift the bike above your head; not suitable for e-bikes and awkward on tall cars.
- Caravan or motorhome carrier: on the A-frame or the rear wall; check nose weight and permitted mass.
Calculate the nose weight
The type plate of your towbar states the maximum nose weight, usually 50 to 100 kilos. Carrier and bikes together must stay below it. Two electric bikes of 25 kilos plus an 18-kilo carrier is 68 kilos: that needs a towbar rated at least 75 kilos. Three e-bikes only work with a 100-kilo rating and a light carrier.
What to look for
- Electric bikes: at least 25 to 30 kilos capacity per bike and a loading ramp to roll them on.
- Tilting: a tilting carrier lets you open the boot with bikes loaded.
- Foldable: fits in the boot or the caravan when not in use.
- Wheel trays: wide trays for fat bikes and mountain bikes.
- Lighting: 7- or 13-pin plug; check which your towbar has.
- Theft protection: lockable to the towbar with lockable bike arms.
The Thule models compared
| Model | Bikes | Per bike | Foldable | Tilting | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thule EasyFold XT 2 / 3 | 2 or 3 | 30 kg | Yes | Yes | Caravanners with e-bikes; the bestseller |
| Thule VeloSpace XT 2 / 3 | 2 or 3 | 30 kg | No | Yes | Heavy e-bikes, fat bikes and wide tyres |
| Thule Epos 2 / 3 | 2 or 3 | 30 kg | Yes | Yes | Top model: fast mounting, any bike, easiest to use |
| Thule EasyFold XT 2B / 3B | 2 or 3 | 30 kg | Yes | Yes | Same as EasyFold, with built-in lock and loading ramp |
| Pro User Diamant | 2 or 3 | 30 kg | Yes | Yes | Affordable alternative for e-bikes |
Fitting and use
A towbar carrier mounts in minutes with the quick coupling. Before every trip check the clamp, the straps and the lights, and keep to a maximum of 130 km/h. Remove loose items such as panniers and child seats. At Kampeerwinkel Roermond we fit the carrier in the car park and show you how it works; a number plate for the carrier is available in store.
Frequently asked questions
Which bike carrier for two electric bikes?
A towbar carrier rated 30 kilos per bike with a loading ramp, such as the Thule EasyFold XT 2 or VeloSpace XT 2, on a towbar with at least 75 kilos nose weight.
Do I need a number plate on the carrier?
Yes, a plate with the car's registration as soon as the carrier covers the original plate.
Can I use the carrier on a motorhome?
On a motorhome with a towbar, yes; mind the weight and rear overhang. Special rear-wall carriers exist for motorhomes.
Can the carrier stay on when I am not carrying bikes?
Yes, but a foldable carrier is better stored in the boot; it saves fuel and wear. See all bike carriers, the Thule brand page and our roof boxes.