New gear: Thule Epos bike carrier

Bike carriers that mount on your vehicle's tow ball have been around seemingly forever, but that hasn't stopped Swedish outdoor and vehicle accessories giant Thule from coming up with a new premium version it describes as the "most versatile bike carrier ever".

Now available in Australia, the new Epos is, according to Thule "the only bike carrier that fits any frame design and bike geometry plus provides easy, independent loading and unloading".

The new Epos tow ball bike carrier is both foldable and tilt-able, and boasts a telescopic bike attachment system designed to securely transport bikes of any type or size.

Telescopic bike arms also make it possible to reach and secure the bike in a variety of locations; on the frame or the rear wheel of the bike.

There's also a foot pedal tilt feature that allows access to the vehicle's rear cargo space with the bikes mounted, and generous bike spacing reduces the risk of bike on bike contact. A 30kg (bike) and 60kg (total load) capacity also enables transport of heavier mountain and E-bikes.

The unit folds up neatly when not in use, and includes base mounted wheels and grip handles to move it around.

The Thule Epos comes standard with an integrated bike arm for security, or there's an optional High-Grade lock by ABUS. Other optional accessories include a premium storage and carry bag, bike repair holder, and foldable loading ramp.

Pricing on the Thule website is $1999 for the two-bike version, with the three-bike Epos priced at $2199.

Thule has also released its first roof platform on to the Australian market, aimed at adventurous types who like to carry a bunch of gear on the roof while camping, caravanning or taking part in other outdoor adventures.

The sleek new Caprock roof platform is available in a range of sizes to suit varying roof dimensions as well as utes, and offers several mounting options with integrated T-slots to attach other Thule rack products like bike carriers or kayak racks.

Pricing on the Thule website ranges from $1753 to $2153, depending on the size.

Meanwhile, another clever new tow ball mounted product from Thule that could be on its way to Australia at some point is the new Outset towbar tent.

While 'coupling campers' are nothing new, the Thule Outset looks like a more user-friendly option for car travellers that can't find room on the roof or the boot for their swag or tent.

The innovative new product is scheduled for release in Europe next year.

“The Thule Outset hitch tent represents a ground-breaking innovation by shifting away from the conventional roof-mounted approach and instead attaches to the rear of the vehicle," Thule Australia Marketing Manager Shane Stiffle told caravancampingsales.

"The initial release of this product has garnered widespread attention across Europe for its impeccable presentation. We are evaluating its suitability with the Australian market, so I would say watch this space.”