Looking Beyond the SportRack Horizon 2 Cargo Box? 4 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The SportRack Horizon 2 Cargo Box offers 16 cubic feet of volume and a passenger-side opening for convenient loading. Its central locking system ensures security, while the U-bolt kit allows straightforward installation on most rack types. If you are considering sportrack horizon 2 cargo box alternatives, you might want a different capacity or mounting style. Some drivers need more space for gear-heavy trips, while others prefer a hitch-mounted solution to save roof weight. Others may already own a Thule rack and need a compatible carrier.
This list includes 4 options that share key specifications with the Horizon 2. Each alternative was selected because its specs overlap with the original product. You will find models with higher volume capacities, compact designs for smaller loads, and specialized hitch mounts. These choices cover different brand preferences and feature sets. Whether you prioritize curb-side access or maximum storage, these alternatives provide practical solutions based on published data. Review the specs to find the best fit for your vehicle and travel needs.
Our top pick: SportRack Horizon 2 L Cargo Box.
How these alternatives compare
Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box
The Thule Motion 3 XL offers 18 cubic feet of volume, which is 2 cubic feet more than the SportRack Horizon 2. It is designed for Thule rack owners, whereas the Horizon 2 fits square, round, and factory bars. The Thule model includes a torque indicator to ensure safe loading, providing an extra layer of security not explicitly listed for the Horizon 2. You should choose this if you need maximum capacity and already own Thule crossbars. It gives up the universal fit of the SportRack but gains higher volume and brand-specific integration. This is a premium choice for families or gear-heavy trips.
SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box
The SportRack Sidekick provides 8 cubic feet of volume, which is half the capacity of the Horizon 2. It weighs 22.7 pounds and measures 54 inches in length, making it a compact solution for light loads. You should pick this if you have a small roof rack or prioritize saving roof space over storage volume. It gives up the 16 cubic feet and 110 lbs load capacity of the Horizon 2. The Sidekick is ideal for drivers who do not need the larger footprint or the central locking system of the Horizon 2. It is a budget-friendly option for minimal cargo needs.
Thule Caprock Cargo Box Kit One Size
The Thule Caprock is a roof rack kit, not a cargo box. It weighs 3.97 pounds and measures 31.9 inches in length. This product is for mounting existing cargo boxes to your vehicle, not for storing items directly. You should choose this if you already have a carrier and need sturdy, low-profile mounting hardware. It gives up all storage volume and security features of the Horizon 2. The Horizon 2 is a complete box with 16 cubic feet of space. The Caprock is a base component for those who already own a box and need to attach it to their roof bars.
Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box
The Thule Santu is a hitch-mounted cargo box, not a roof carrier. It weighs 33.1 pounds and measures 59.1 inches in length. This product is designed for owners of Thule Epos or EasyFold XT bike carriers. You should pick this if you want rear-mounted storage for those specific bike racks. It gives up the roof-mounted convenience and 16 cubic feet of volume of the Horizon 2. The Santu provides a specialized storage solution for bike owners. It does not fit roof racks or bars. This is a niche option for those who already use Thule rear bike carriers and need additional hitch-mounted space.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SportRack Horizon 2 L Cargo Box Best overall | curb-side loading with 16 cu ft volume | Check price of SportRack Horizon 2 L Cargo Box on Amazon |
| 2 | Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box Best premium | Thule rack owners needing 18 cu ft | Check price of Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box on Amazon |
| 3 | SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box Also great | light loads and small roof racks | Check price of SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box on Amazon |
| 4 | Thule Caprock Cargo Box Kit One Size Best budget | mounting existing cargo boxes | Check price of Thule Caprock Cargo Box Kit One Size on Amazon |
| 5 | Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box Best hitch mount | Thule rear-mounted bike carriers | Check price of Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box on Amazon |
Our 5 picks
SportRack Horizon 2 L Cargo Box
Best for: curb-side loading with 16 cu ft volume
- Capacity
- 16 cubic feet
- Opening
- Passenger-side
- Load Capacity
- 110 lbs
- Security
- CentralLocking system
- Installation
- U-bolt attachment kit
- Size
- One Size
View on Amazon: SportRack Horizon 2 L Cargo Box Affiliate link
This SportRack Horizon 2 L offers 16 cubic feet of volume and a 110-pound load capacity. It features passenger-side access for easier loading from the curb. The unit uses a U-bolt attachment kit for installation on square, round, or factory racks. Its CentralLocking system ensures the key only removes when fully secured. It suits drivers needing reliable side-access storage.
Pros
- 16 cubic feet internal volume
- 110 lbs maximum load capacity
- Passenger-side door opening
- CentralLocking security system
Cons
- 16 cubic feet is smaller than the 18 cubic feet Thule Motion 3 XL
- 110 lbs capacity is lower than the 99 lbs limit of the Thule Santu hitch box relative to its size
- Requires U-bolt kit which may need separate purchase depending on existing rack hardware
Good fit if
- You park next to curbs and need side access
- You have SportRack or standard crossbars
- You need 16 cubic feet of cargo space
Skip if
- You require over 16 cubic feet of volume
- You prefer a hitch-mounted carrier
- You need a capacity exceeding 110 lbs
Verdict: SportRack Horizon 2 L 16 Cu Ft provides secure, side-access storage for moderate loads. It is a practical fit for drivers who prioritize curb-side convenience over maximum volume.
Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box
Best for: Thule rack owners needing 18 cu ft
- Capacity
- 18 cu ft
- Load Capacity
- 165 lbs
- Security
- Slide lock
- Installation
- PowerClick quick-mount
- Vehicle Compatibility
- Select Thule rack systems
- Dimensions
- 84.7 x 35 x 17 in
View on Amazon: Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box Affiliate link
The Thule Motion 3 XL offers 18 cubic feet of cargo space with a 165 lb load capacity. Its PowerClick system includes a torque indicator for secure mounting. The SlideLock system separates locking and opening functions. It fits 5–7 pairs of skis or 3–5 snowboards. This box suits those needing high capacity and fast installation on roof racks.
Pros
- 18 cu ft internal capacity
- 165 lb load capacity
- PowerClick quick-mount with torque indicator
- SlideLock security system
Cons
- Large external dimensions at 84.7 x 35 x 17 in
- Requires select Thule rack systems or adapters
- Limited to one size option in data
Good fit if
- You need to transport 5–7 pairs of skis
- You want a quick mounting system with torque feedback
- You have a compatible Thule roof rack
Skip if
- You have a non-Thule rack without adapters
- You need a lower profile for low clearance
- You prefer a smaller 9–16 cu ft box
Verdict: Thule Motion 3 XL 18 Cu Ft is a high-capacity carrier for families or gear-heavy trips using Thule racks. Its torque indicator ensures safe loading, making it ideal for those prioritizing security and volume.
SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box
Best for: light loads and small roof racks
- Capacity
- 8 cubic foot
- Opening
- passenger-side opening
- Load Capacity
- 75 pounds
- Security
- lock to secure contents
- Dimensions
- 54 x 25 x 15.5 inches
- Size
- One Size
View on Amazon: SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box Affiliate link
The SportRack Sidekick is a compact 8 cubic foot roof box designed for small loads. It measures 54 by 25 by 15.5 inches and weighs 22.7 pounds. The unit features a passenger-side opening for easier access and includes a lock for security. It supports a load capacity of 75 pounds and fits most factory racks. This box suits drivers needing minimal roof space usage.
Pros
- 8 cubic foot internal capacity
- Passenger-side opening for easy access
- Includes lock for security
- Fits square, round, and factory racks
Cons
- 75-pound load capacity is lower than competitors
- 8 cubic foot volume is smaller than alternatives
- 22.7-pound weight adds to vehicle roof load
Good fit if
- You need a compact box for short trips
- You want to save roof space for other gear
- You carry light loads under 75 pounds
Skip if
- You require more than 8 cubic feet of space
- You plan to haul heavy items over 75 pounds
- You need a box with dual-side access
Verdict: SportRack Sidekick 8 Cu Ft Cargo Box is a compact solution for light loads. It fits drivers who prioritize roof space over volume and weight capacity.
Thule Caprock Cargo Box Kit One Size
Best for: mounting existing cargo boxes
- Dimensions
- 31.9 x 2.24 x 2.56 in
- Size
- One Size
- Weight
- 3.97 pounds
View on Amazon: Thule Caprock Cargo Box Kit One Size Affiliate link
This Thule kit includes a 31.9-inch crossbar and mounting hardware. It weighs just 3.97 pounds and fits most vehicles. You use it to attach a cargo box to your roof. The slim 2.24-inch width helps reduce wind noise. It is a simple, lightweight solution for carrying gear.
Pros
- Lightweight 3.97-pound construction
- 31.9-inch length for standard roof spacing
- Slim 2.24-inch width for aerodynamics
Cons
- Sells as a hardware kit, not a cargo box
- Requires separate purchase of a cargo carrier
- Fixed length does not adjust for vehicle width
Good fit if
- You already own a cargo box but need new mounts
- You want to keep roof weight low for fuel efficiency
- You need a reliable base for your existing gear
Skip if
- You need an all-in-one storage solution
- You want to carry large items without a box
- You prefer adjustable width bars for flexibility
Verdict: Thule Caprock Roof Rack Kit provides a lightweight base for your cargo box. It suits drivers who already have a carrier and need sturdy, low-profile mounting hardware.
Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box
Best for: Thule rear-mounted bike carriers
- Capacity
- 9 Cu Ft
- Shell Type
- Hard-shell
- Load Capacity
- 99 lb
- Dimensions
- 59.1 x 26.6 x 22 in
- Size
- One Size
- Mount Type
- Hitch Mount
View on Amazon: Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box Affiliate link
The Thule Santu is a hitch-mounted cargo box designed for rear bike carriers. It offers 9 cubic feet of volume and supports up to 99 pounds. The unit measures 59.1 by 26.6 by 22 inches and weighs 33.1 pounds. It attaches to Thule Epos and EasyFold XT carriers. You can roll it out using the handle and wheels. This design keeps the box low for easier loading.
Pros
- Hitch mount design fits Thule Epos and EasyFold XT bike carriers
- 99-pound load capacity for heavy gear
- Integrated grab handle and wheels for rolling the box
- Low profile sits close to the ground for ergonomic loading
Cons
- 9 cubic feet capacity is smaller than roof boxes
- Requires a compatible Thule rear-mounted bike carrier
- Limited to specific Thule bike rack models
Good fit if
- You use a Thule Epos or EasyFold XT bike carrier
- You want to keep cargo low to the ground
- You need to attach storage to a rear bike rack
Skip if
- You do not have a Thule rear-mounted bike carrier
- You need more than 9 cubic feet of storage
- You want a universal hitch mount for any rack
Verdict: Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box is a specialized storage solution for owners of Thule Epos or EasyFold XT bike carriers. It provides convenient, low-loading storage for those who already use these specific racks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SportRack Horizon 2 L Cargo Box | Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box | SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box | Thule Caprock Cargo Box Kit One Size | Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 16 cubic feet | 18 cu ft | 8 cubic foot | not stated | 9 Cu Ft |
| Shell Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Hard-shell |
| Opening | Passenger-side | not stated | passenger-side opening | not stated | not stated |
| Load Capacity | 110 lbs | 165 lbs | 75 pounds | not stated | 99 lb |
| Security | CentralLocking system | Slide lock | lock to secure contents | not stated | not stated |
| Installation | U-bolt attachment kit | PowerClick quick-mount | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Vehicle Compatibility | not stated | Select Thule rack systems | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 84.7 x 35 x 17 in | 54 x 25 x 15.5 inches | 31.9 x 2.24 x 2.56 in | 59.1 x 26.6 x 22 in |
| Size | One Size | One Size | One Size | One Size | One Size |
| Mount Type | not stated | Roof Mount | not stated | not stated | Hitch Mount |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | 22.7 pounds | 3.97 pounds | 33.1 pounds |
| Color | New Black | WHITE GLOSSY | Black | Black | Black |
| Model | SR7030 | 11500504 | SR7020 | 611330 | 909401 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is the largest cargo box volume available in this list?
The Thule Motion 3 XL offers the largest capacity at 18 cubic feet. This provides two cubic feet more storage than the SportRack Horizon 2. It is designed for families or trips requiring extra gear. However, it is specifically intended for use with Thule racks.
Which option is best for light loads and small roof racks?
The SportRack Sidekick is the best choice for light loads. It provides eight cubic feet of volume, making it compact for smaller vehicles. Its dimensions are 54 inches in length and 25 inches in width. It weighs only 22.7 pounds, ensuring it does not strain small roof racks.
Are there hitch-mounted alternatives to roof cargo boxes?
Yes, the Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box is a specialized hitch-mounted option. It is designed for owners of Thule Epos or EasyFold XT bike carriers. This box measures 59.1 inches long and weighs 33.1 pounds. It provides low-loading storage without using roof space.
What if I already own a cargo box and need mounting hardware?
The Thule Caprock Roof Rack Kit is designed for this purpose. It provides sturdy, low-profile mounting hardware for existing carriers. The kit measures 31.9 inches in length and weighs just 3.97 pounds. It is ideal if you need a lightweight base for your current cargo box.
Which cargo box allows curb-side loading for convenience?
The SportRack Horizon 2 L is optimized for curb-side loading. It offers 16 cubic feet of volume with a passenger-side opening. This design allows you to load items from the sidewalk rather than the street. It is a practical fit for drivers who prioritize convenience over maximum volume.
Does the Thule Motion 3 XL include safety features for loading?
Yes, the Thule Motion 3 XL includes a torque indicator. This feature ensures safe loading by signaling when the lid is properly secured. It is ideal for users prioritizing security. The box offers 18 cubic feet of volume and is built for Thule rack systems.
What are the dimensions of the SportRack Sidekick cargo box?
The SportRack Sidekick measures 54 inches in length, 25 inches in width, and 15.5 inches in height. These compact dimensions make it suitable for small roof racks. The unit weighs 22.7 pounds, keeping the overall weight low for vehicles with lower weight capacities.
Is there a specific cargo box for Thule bike carrier owners?
The Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box is tailored for Thule bike carrier owners. It works with Thule Epos or EasyFold XT carriers. This hitch-mounted solution provides 59.1 inches of length. It allows for convenient storage without occupying the roof, which is useful when carrying bikes.