Thule UpRide: new roof rack
The Thule brand is almost synonymous with bike racks. The Swedes are constantly shaking up the market with new, sophisticated products. For 2018, the developers have once again come up with a new highlight: a roof rack that can also be used to gently transport carbon frames.
The new UpRide uses a completely new fastening system that leaves the frame untouched. The front tyre is braced by two crossed brackets, while the rear wheel is secured in the classic way using a ratchet.
The wide brackets at the front accommodate wheel sizes from 20 to 29 inches and tyres up to 5 inches wide. The standard rear wheel mount is sufficient for tyres up to 3 inches. However, a wider ratchet is available as an option, which then also fixes tyres up to 5 inches. The maximum wheelbase is 1240 millimetres and the bike can weigh up to 20 kilos.
Clever: a cable lock can be pulled out of the back of the rail and extends around the frame to protect the bike mounted on the roof from theft.
Thule Vital: new rucksacks for bikers
The Vital backpack series is also brand new. The three models with volumes of 3, 6 or 8 litres are designed to be particularly lightweight and feature a few clever details. For example, the drinking tube is held on the shoulder straps by a magnetic strip and is automatically returned to the straps after drinking. This means you don't have to take your hands off the handlebars unnecessarily.
There are pockets on both sides of the hip belt, which should be particularly easy to reach. In addition, the back area should be particularly well ventilated and optimally held in position thanks to the low centre of gravity. Small details such as a pump holder or rear light loop are now almost standard equipment.
Stefan Frey
Editor
