Difference Between Thule Motion XT and Thule Force Rooftop Cargo Boxes
Updated 10/16/2018 | Published 10/14/2018
Question:
Hello, I have a 2018 Subaru Forester and I Im looking to get a roof box for the ski season. I see that the new model is the Motion XT, but there are also the Force and Pulse Alpine models, with the Force currently on sale. Can you tell me please what are the major differences between these three models, and which do you recommend? Thank you,
asked by: Gino S
Expert Reply:
All of the Thule cargo boxes have a quite a bit in common but they do have some key differences. Thule's boxes come in four groups that relate to their standard features, the Pulse, Force, Motion and Hyper groups. All of Thule's boxes except the Pulse series have dual side access.
Force boxes have Quick Grip mounting, and above average rigidity when opened.
Motion boxes have the upgraded Power Click mounting, a unique lid design that creates a less "wobble" when opening, and the slide lock.
Between these two boxes, the primary differences are the number of load straps, ski capacity and hatch clearance.
The Force, part # TH6356B, has only 2 load straps that are linked to the mounting hardware, and that's it. Its capable of carrying more skis than the Motion, with a maximum of 5 - 6 pairs of skis pairs of Skis or 2-3 snowboards depending on width and bindings, and a maximum length of a little over 192 cm. The Force is a strictly better choice when primarily carrying skis and snowboards. It also requires more forward clearance, requiring 52-1/4 inches from the center of your front crossbar to the rear of your roof where the hatch's hinge is.
The Motion, part # TH629506 has more load straps, with 3 included, and 6 anchor points. One set is located in the middle mounted to the box, while the others are linked to the Power-Click system. The Power Click system is also another advantage that the Motion has over the Force, as this system helps prevent damaging the clamps due to overtightening. When you're mounting the box, the clamps will audibly click when they are the correct tightness onto your bars. The Motion is also a higher capacity box (Offering 16 cubic feet to the Force's 12 cubic feet) that requires less clearance, only 55 inches, to fit your vehicle.
That being said, if you're looking for pure cargo capacity and stability of that cargo, the Motion is well worth the extra money for its additional mounting points and ease of installation.
