The Bike Carriers Guide

Transporting your bike safely and conveniently matters. This guide explains the main types of bike carriers and highlights popular Thule systems that combine durability, ease-of-use and excellent fit for South African roads.

Whether you're heading to the trails, racing, or taking the family on a cycling holiday, choosing the right bike carrier will save time and protect your bike. Below we outline the carrier types, show a simple comparison table and showcase a few Thule models commonly used by cyclists.

Types of Bike Carriers

Towbar Platform (Loading Platforms)

Platform systems mount to the towbar and present a flat base that bikes are strapped onto. They are extremely stable, simple to load, and are popular with e-bike owners and those who frequently transport heavy bikes.

Features:

Very stable and easy to load
Often includes ramps for e-bikes
Quick to attach/detach from towbar
Suitable for frequent use
Premium pricing but high convenience

Towbar Mounted Carriers

Towbar-mounted carriers offer top stability and are ideal for long distances and heavier bikes, including many e-bikes. They attach directly to the vehicle's towbar and often fold for storage.

Features:

High stability for long trips
Easy loading at waist height
Good for heavy e-bikes
Often foldable for compact storage
Secure locking systems

Roof Carriers

Roof carriers mount to roof bars and secure the bike by frame or fork. They keep boot access free but require lifting the bike onto the roof — a great option for lighter road bikes and when you want clear rear visibility.

Features:

Keeps boot access free
Reduces risk of blocking lights/plate
Good for lightweight road bikes
Low maintenance and reliable
Compact when not in use

Rear Hatch / Boot Carriers

These carriers strap to the rear of the vehicle and are often the most affordable. They work well for occasional transport but need careful installation to avoid contact with paint and to keep lights visible.

Features:

Budget-friendly
No towbar or roof bars required
Lightweight and compact
Easy to store when not in use
Fit varies between car models

Quick Comparison

Type	Vehicle Compatibility	No. of Bikes	Ideal Use	Typical Thule Model
Towbar Platform	Vehicles with towbar	2–3	E-bikes, frequent heavy use	Thule EasyFold XT
Towbar Carrier	Vehicles with towbar	2–4	Family, e-bikes, long trips	Thule VeloSpace XT
Roof Carrier	Cars with roof bars	1–2	Road & light MTBs	Thule ProRide 598
Rear / Boot Carrier	Most hatchbacks & sedans	1–3	Occasional transport, budget	Thule BackPac

Shop Bike Racks

Tips for Choosing the Right Carrier

Match the carrier to the bike weight — e-bikes need higher load-rated carriers.
Consider how often you’ll remove the rack — towbar platforms offer fastest day-to-day use.
Check boot access and number plate visibility after installation.
Test fit at low speed before heading on a long trip.
Keep rubber buffers or protection to avoid paint contact with straps.