Thule launches Caprock platform rooftop carrier
Thule, the Swedish manufacturer of vehicle accessories, are expanding their rooftop cargo carrying portfolio with the launch of the all-new Thule Caprock.
The Thule Caprock platform roof top carrier allows vehicle owners to transform the roof of their vehicle and create a foundation for everyday work or leisure adventures. With a modular design and endless possibilities the sleek roof platform supports a variety of gear and mounting types. Easy to load and unload, such a roof platform is a great foundation for adventures off the beaten track.
While such rooftop platforms were historically popular in the overlanding community and limited to fitment on larger 4x4 and bakkie type vehicles due to their size and weight, the launch of the Thule Caprock gives owners of a wider variety of vehicles the ability to fit such a system to their vehicle.
The Thule Caprock is ideal for those individuals who dabble in a wide variety of leisure and outdoor activities and are looking for a platform that can be adapted to what they are carrying this weekend and easily altered for carrying something completely different next weekend.
The platform design of the Thule Caprock distributes weight across the platform, increasing the weight carrying capability of the vehicle and allowing owners of a wider range of vehicles the opportunity to fit such a rack to their vehicle.
The Thule Caprock can be attached to vehicles via the specific Thule load carrier feet, of which there are a variety available for various vehicle models, with the Thule catalogue currently includes fitment options for over 8 500 vehicles. Alternatively the Caprock can be fitted to existing crossbars using the Thule Crossbar adapter. This means that Thule have a solution for fitting the Caprock onto the majority of vehicles available in SA.
Fitment of the Thule Caprock requires no modification to the vehicle such as drilling and the Caprock can be removed within minutes when not in use.
The Thule Caprock is available in five different sizes, from small to double extra-large meaning there is a solution for almost every size of SUV and off-roader.
The smallest model measures 1.3 metres by 1.5 metres making it perfect for compact SUVs like the Volkswagen T-Cross while the largest models will expand the load carrying ability of substantial vehicles like the Ineos Grenadier, Land Rover Defender and even Mercedes-Benz Viano.
At the Thule Test Centre, products are only given the official seal of approval once they have survived numerous crash tests, long distance vibration testing, wear and tear simulations as well as exposure to extreme heat, cold, damp, sunlight and even harsh chemicals.
As with all Thule products the Caprock features a premium look and high-quality design and finishings. The fit kits ensure that the roof rack fits vehicles as safely and securely as possible, with no risk of damage to the vehicle from fitment.
The front of the rack features a discreet fairing that is positioned between the vehicles roof and the bottom of the roof platform and diffuser strips are built into each crossbar to reduce wind noise and the racks influence on fuel consumption.
The Thule Caprock sets new benchmarks for weight and the design of platform roof top carriers and allows owners to expand the capability of their vehicle with a stylish well-designed product.
The Thule Caprock is designed to accommodate common roof rack accessories from a wide variety of suppliers. The Caprock’s frame is covered in T-slots as is each of the crossbars which will accept a wide variety of accessories such as rooftop tents, light bars, jacks and other necessary adventure gear.
Naturally the Caprock can act as a basis for the fitment of Thule’s variety of rack products that allow owners to live their passions no matter where they are travelling to. The Caprock can be fitted with accessories such as bicycle carriers, roof boxes and kayak holders concurrently. All of Thule’s accessories for carrying such gear boast the advantage of being lockable onto the rack and locking the item being carried, which is a necessity in South Africa.
The Thule Rail accessory, which is sold separately converts the platform into a roof basket by means of additional side panels which provide a barrier for carrying gear such as bags, coolers and containers within the perimeter of the platform. Each side rail attaches independently allowing owners to configure the rack to their exact needs and include full size T-slot grooves, providing additional tie down points for the securing of gear.
The Thule Fit Assistant on Thule.com allows motorists to determine which model and footpack is best suited to their particular vehicle.
Thule’s wide range of rooftop cargo carriers, bicycle racks, accessories and luggage are available from Thule Concept stores located throughout South Africa.
Pricing starts at R25 999 and the Thule Caprock is covered by a five-year warranty.
