Thule Epos ParkSecure 3-bike rack review: one of the most advanced on the market, with parking sensors and a fully foldable design

Ball-mounted bike racks have become one of the most practical options for transporting bicycles, especially when we talk about e-bikes, whose weight and dimensions complicate other solutions. But carrying multiple bicycles behind the car also has its drawbacks, especially when it comes to parking. Thule has aimed to solve this problem with the Epos ParkSecure 3B, a bike rack for three bicycles that incorporates four parking sensors and retains all the advantages of the original Epos. We have tested it for several weeks to see how this system works and what one of the most complete bike racks on the market offers.

Thule Epos, a bike rack that has evolved to offer something more

When Thule presented the Epos in 2023, it positioned it directly at the top of its catalog of ball-mounted bike racks. Its proposal differed from other models due to a much more versatile mounting system, designed to adapt to the different geometries and types of bicycles we find today.

Instead of resorting to arms with more limited anchoring positions, the Epos uses telescopic arms with pivoting heads that allow securing bicycles by both the frame and the rear wheel. A solution that facilitates the placement of bicycles with unconventional frame shapes, e-bikes, or models equipped with fenders and racks, as long as the compatibilities indicated by the brand are respected.

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The arms incorporate steel-reinforced straps and accommodate frames from 20 to 90 mm. As for the wheels, the bike rack is compatible with diameters from 16 to 32 inches, tires up to 3 inches wide —expandable to 5 inches with optional XXL straps— and bicycles with a wheelbase of up to 1,350 mm.

The three-bike version can carry up to 30 kg per bicycle, with a maximum of 60 kg in total, so it is prepared for most e-bikes, although it should be noted that we could not load three bicycles of 30 kg simultaneously. The 25 cm separation between bicycles also facilitates their placement and helps avoid contact between frames, handlebars, or pedals.

Beyond the mounting system, the Epos stood out since its launch for arriving fully assembled, incorporating wheels and a handle for easy transport, and offering a complete fold that facilitates storage. It also features a pedal to tilt the assembly and access the trunk with the bicycles loaded, as well as locks to secure both the bicycles and the bike rack to the vehicle.

The new ParkSecure retains all these features and adds the parking sensor system. An evolution that barely increases the weight by 400 grams compared to the conventional three-bike Epos, although it also represents a price increase of 330 euros.

ParkSecure, parking sensors integrated into the bike rack itself

The main novelty of this version responds to a fairly common situation when transporting bicycles behind the car. The rear cameras can be partially or completely blocked by the bicycles, while the vehicle's original sensors may detect the bike rack as an obstacle and cease to be useful during maneuvers.

To avoid this, Thule has integrated four parking sensors directly into the Epos ParkSecure, so we can have a specific assistance system when we are reversing with the bicycles loaded.

The sensors comply, according to Thule, with the ISO 17386 standard used in parking assistance systems and are designed to provide coverage with bicycles up to 1,350 mm wheelbase and 29-inch wheels. This last measurement corresponds to the expected range for the sensors, as the bike rack can transport bicycles with wheels up to 32 inches.

The operation is simple. The system receives power through the vehicle's 13-pin electrical connector and wirelessly transmits alerts to a small unit that we place inside the car. This unit is powered via USB-C and alerts us with audible and visual signals when it detects obstacles while reversing.

Additionally, the interior unit can connect via Bluetooth to the Thule app, from which it is possible to consult an expanded representation of the maneuver on the mobile phone, modify system settings, and receive software updates.

To use the app, it is necessary for the interior unit to remain powered and connected. It should also be noted that ParkSecure requires a 13-pin electrical installation, so it is not compatible with vehicles that only have a 7-pin connection.

Thule Epos ParkSecure 3B, the model we tested

For this test, we mounted the Epos ParkSecure 3B, the version with capacity for three bicycles and an official price of 1,649.95 euros. Its declared weight is 23.1 kg and it has dimensions of 91 × 126 × 22 cm when deployed, which reduce to 91 × 27 × 75 cm once folded.

Within the range, we also find the ParkSecure 2B, designed for two bicycles, with a weight of 17.8 kg and a price of 1,499.95 euros. For reference, the conventional three-bike Epos, without parking sensors, costs 1,319.95 euros.

Our test was conducted on a Mercedes V-Class, using a size L e-bike weighing 24 kg. During these days, we were able to place the bicycle in all three positions of the bike rack and check both the mounting system and its ease of use.

The first impression when taking the Epos ParkSecure out of the box is that we are dealing with a high-end product. The quality of the materials, the finishes, and the solidity of the different mechanisms are at a very high level. This is not the first bike rack from Thule that we have tested at Brujula Bike and this model maintains the quality feel that the brand has accustomed us to.

Another appreciated detail is that it arrives fully assembled. We do not have to waste time assembling the structure or adjusting its different elements before the first use. In the box, we find the bike rack, the interior unit of the ParkSecure system with its USB-C cable, and the keys.

Thule also offers various accessories to complete the set, including a storage cover, a folding ramp for loading heavy bicycles, a repair stand, a High-Grade Lock developed with ABUS, and XXL straps for wide tires. All are sold separately, although there is the option to purchase the bike rack in a package that includes the cover.

Easy installation and a fold that makes a difference

One of the aspects to consider before buying a bike rack of these characteristics is its weight. The Epos ParkSecure 3B weighs 23.1 kg and, although it is not an especially surprising figure for a three-bike model with this load capacity, it is noticeable when we have to lift it to place it on the car's ball.

To move it, Thule has integrated wheels and a handle that allow it to be rolled without having to carry all its weight. It is a practical solution for transporting it from where we store it to the vehicle, although the final movement to position it on the hitch must be done by lifting it.

Once on the ball, the stabilized coupling system makes installation quite easy. We can rest the bike rack, adjust its position, and close the locking lever before securing it with the key. It is not necessary to hold all the weight while making the adjustment.

There is another important detail that we should not overlook. The 23.1 kg of the bike rack count towards the maximum vertical load allowed by the vehicle and its hitch. According to the examples provided by Thule, with a vertical limit of 50 kg we could transport 26.9 kg of bicycles, while with one of 80 kg the available capacity would increase to 56.9 kg.

These figures are general examples and do not necessarily correspond to the vehicle used in our test. Before loading multiple bicycles, it is essential to check the specifications of the car and the hitch, as well as to respect the limits of the bike rack itself.

But where the Epos ParkSecure really convinced us is in its folding system.

In just a few movements, we can retract the securing arms and fold the two side platforms down to leave a surprisingly compact set for a three-bike rack. Its folded dimensions are 91 × 27 × 75 cm, which makes it much easier to find a place for it when not in use.

In our case, being able to store it inside the trunk once folded has seemed to us one of its great advantages. We do not have to leave it permanently installed in the car or necessarily look for a large space to store it. However, it is advisable to check that the dimensions fit with the trunk and its loading mouth, as it remains a bulky set weighing over 23 kg.

Another function that is particularly practical is the tilting via pedal. With the bicycles installed, we can tilt the bike rack to facilitate access to the trunk, something that is appreciated when we are traveling and need to grab something without unloading the bicycles.

Thule also indicates that when we are not carrying bicycles, we can retract the arms and access the trunk without needing to tilt the assembly. In any case, the available opening will depend on the dimensions and the travel of the vehicle's tailgate.

A versatile and easy-to-use mounting system

One of the features we liked most about the Epos ParkSecure is how easy it is to adapt its arms to different bicycles.

Each position has its own telescopic arm and a pivoting head that allows choosing different anchoring points. We can secure the bicycle by the frame or by the rear wheel, which is especially interesting for dual-suspension bicycles, e-bikes with large tubes, or frames where it is not always easy to find a suitable fixing point.

The arms can be extended and oriented to reach the chosen area, while the steel-reinforced straps keep the bicycle secured. The fixation is completed with ratchet straps that hold the wheels directly to the platforms.

In our test, we used a 24 kg e-bike that we placed in all three available positions. In all cases, the bicycle was very well secured, and the system gave us a great sense of safety.

The ability to choose between several securing points greatly facilitates the operation and avoids having to adapt the placement of the bicycle to a single type of arm. Additionally, the 25 cm separation between positions leaves plenty of space to organize the load, although we must always check that the different components of the bicycles do not touch each other.

For those using particularly heavy bicycles, the brand offers an optional folding ramp that allows loading them onto the platforms without having to lift them completely. We find it an interesting accessory for e-bike users, although it should be remembered that it is not part of the standard equipment included.

The ParkSecure sensors are one of the improvements we appreciated the most

The Epos was already a very complete bike rack before incorporating the parking sensors, so the big question of this test was to see if ParkSecure provided a real advantage in everyday use.

And the truth is that we found it to be one of the most interesting functions of this new version.

When we carry loaded bicycles, especially in large vehicles, maneuvering in reverse can be more uncomfortable than usual. Depending on the placement of the bicycles, the rear camera may be blocked, and the vehicle's original sensors are not always a useful reference.

In these situations, having sensors installed directly on the bike rack is a welcome help. The audible and visual alerts reach the interior unit, providing us with an additional reference to detect obstacles without relying on the vehicle's camera.

Their usefulness is even more evident in cars that do not have a rear camera, where ParkSecure can provide significant assistance when parking.

We also find the possibility of using the mobile phone as an additional screen to be a good idea. The Thule app allows consulting an expanded representation of the maneuver and accessing the system configuration, although for this we must keep the unit connected and powered.

It is not an essential element for transporting bicycles, but it is a solution that improves usability. And after testing it, we understand why Thule decided to incorporate it into a specific version of the Epos.

Conclusions, a high-end bike rack with a very useful improvement

After these weeks using the Thule Epos ParkSecure 3B, it has become clear to us that we are dealing with a very well-designed bike rack with a quality level consistent with its positioning within Thule's catalog.

There are three aspects we would particularly highlight. The first is the build quality, both in terms of materials and the solidity of the mechanisms. The second is its mounting system, which has allowed us to place our 24 kg e-bike in any of the three positions with ease and a very firm fixation.

And the third, probably the one that surprised us the most, is its folding capability. Being able to fold a three-bike rack down to relatively compact dimensions is a significant advantage for both transporting it and storing it when we don't need it.

All this is complemented by the ParkSecure sensors, which we found to be a success. They are especially useful when the bicycles obstruct the view of the rear camera or when using a car that does not have one. Being able to receive alerts directly inside the cabin, without relying on the vehicle's original systems, adds an extra level of comfort to maneuvers.

Of course, not everything is advantages. Its 23.1 kg weight requires some caution when installing it, and we must especially check that the vertical load allowed by our vehicle and its hitch permits transporting the bicycles we need.

The other aspect that conditions the purchase is the price. The Thule Epos ParkSecure 3B costs 1,649.95 euros, 330 euros more than the conventional three-bike Epos. It is a considerable difference for a function that, although we liked a lot, not all users need.

For those who frequently transport bicycles and often have to maneuver with them loaded, ParkSecure may justify that extra cost. If parking assistance is not a priority, the conventional Epos retains all the qualities we valued most during the test.

In short, the Epos ParkSecure 3B combines high-quality construction, a very versatile mounting system, and one of the most practical folds we have tested in a bike rack of these characteristics. The sensors do not change its main function, but they do make one of the least appreciated moments of traveling with bicycles behind the car more comfortable.

Thule Epos ParkSecure 3B: technical specifications and price

• Type: ball-mounted bike rack, foldable and tiltable, with integrated parking sensors.
• Number of bicycles: 3.
• Load capacity: 60 kg in total, with a maximum of 30 kg per bicycle, always within the limits of the vehicle and the hitch.
• Separation between bicycles: 25 cm.
• Compatibility: frames from 20 to 90 mm, wheels from 16 to 32 inches, tires up to 3 inches —5 inches with optional XXL straps— and wheelbase up to 1,350 mm.
• Mounting system: telescopic arms with pivoting head and steel-reinforced straps, with fixation to the frame or rear wheel. Quick-release ratchet wheel straps.
• Parking sensors: 4 integrated sensors, compliant with ISO 17386 according to Thule, with declared coverage for bicycles with a wheelbase of up to 1,350 mm and 29-inch wheels.
• Interior unit: wireless receiver powered by USB-C, with audible and visual alerts.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth with the Thule app to consult an expanded view of the maneuver, modify settings, and receive updates. Requires the interior unit to be powered and connected.
• Electrical connector: 13 pins. Not compatible with 7-pin connections.
• Other functions: complete fold, pedal tilting, stabilized coupling to the ball, transport wheels and handle, security locks, lighting, and license plate holder.
• Dimensions deployed: 91 × 126 × 22 cm.
• Dimensions folded: 91 × 27 × 75 cm.
• Weight: 23.1 kg.
• Manufacturing: Poland.
• Warranty: legal warranty of three years in Spain for new goods and Thule commercial warranty of up to five years through registration, according to the brand's conditions.
• Optional accessories: storage cover (€69.95), folding loading ramp (€99.95), Epos Bike Repair Holder (€59.95), ABUS High-Grade Lock (€99.95), and XXL straps for fat bikes (€19.95).
• Price Thule Epos ParkSecure 3B: €1,649.95.
• Price Thule Epos ParkSecure 2B: €1,499.95.
• Price Thule Epos 3B without sensors: €1,319.95.

More information on the official Thule website.