If the Thule Motion 3 felt like more roof box than you need, the Thule Pulse 2 L is worth a look — it's currently an Amazon's Choice pick in its category, rated 4.5 stars from 36 reviews. Built as a simpler, more everyday-focused hard shell roof box, it trades some premium touches for a lighter, more accessible price point. Here's how it holds up.
Quick specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Volume | 450 liters (16 cubic feet) |
| Size | Large (also available in Medium) |
| Item weight (unit only) | 31.9 lbs |
| Load capacity | 75 kg (~165 lbs) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 81" x 17" x 37" |
| Shell type | Hard |
| Material | ASA-ABS plastic |
| Opening style | Dual-side opening |
| Mounting type | Roof mount, universal fit |
| Water resistance | Not water resistant |
| Brand | Thule |
An everyday-focused hard shell roof box
Thule positions the Pulse 2 L as a simple, durable hard shell roof box built for commuting, day trips, and weekend escapes — not necessarily the flagship for serious long-haul touring. That everyday focus shows in the pricing and feature set: you get Thule's core engineering without some of the premium extras found on higher-tier models.
Storage capacity: 16 cubic feet for weekend-sized loads
At 450 liters (roughly 16 cubic feet) with a 75 kg (~165 lb) load capacity, the Pulse 2 L comfortably handles gear for day trips, ski weekends, or a couple of travelers' luggage. It's not designed to match the largest XXL boxes on the market, but for weekend-sized loads it's a practical, well-proportioned fit.
Dual-side opening for easier loading
Unlike single rear-opening boxes, the Pulse 2 L opens from either side of the vehicle — a genuinely convenient detail whether you're loading from a driveway, a packed parking lot, or a trailhead.
Important: this box is not water resistant
Here's the one spec that stands out compared to other hard shell roof boxes: Amazon's own listing states the Pulse 2 L is not water resistant. If you're planning to store gear that absolutely cannot get damp — electronics, down jackets, or sensitive equipment — this is worth factoring in, especially compared to competitors that explicitly market weatherproof sealing. For general luggage and hardier gear like ski equipment, this is less of a concern.
Security: central locking system
A central locking system confirms closure for added peace of mind, giving a clear signal the box is properly secured before you drive off — a small but reassuring detail for anyone leaving gear unattended.
Installation: PowerClick tool-free mounting
Like other Thule models, the Pulse 2 L uses the PowerClick mounting system — a tool-free setup with a torque indicator that clicks when safely attached, removing the guesswork of whether it's mounted correctly.
Build quality and vehicle fit
The box is made from hardwearing ASA-ABS plastic, designed to resist sun exposure, scratches, and general weather wear over time. Its streamlined shape is built to suit a wide variety of modern vehicles, and its forward roof position is designed to preserve full trunk access with minimal risk of the box getting in the way.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Amazon's Choice pick with a strong 4.5-star rating
- Dual-side opening for flexible loading
- Tool-free PowerClick installation with audible confirmation
- Central locking system for added security
- Lighter unit weight (31.9 lbs) than larger hard shell boxes, easier to handle
Cons
- Not water resistant — a notable gap for a hard shell roof box in this price range
- 16 cubic foot capacity may be tight for larger families or extended trips
- Fewer premium touches (like aerodynamic wing profiling) compared to Thule's higher-tier lines
Who is this hard shell roof box best for?
The Pulse 2 L makes the most sense for solo travelers, couples, or small families who want genuine Thule build quality and mounting convenience without paying for flagship-level features. Frequent commuters and weekend adventurers who don't need to worry about heavy rain exposure will get the most value here. If you regularly travel through wet climates or need guaranteed weatherproofing, it's worth comparing against a water-resistant alternative first.
Frequently asked questions
How does the Thule Pulse 2 L open and close?
It features dual-side opening, letting you access your gear from either side of the vehicle, along with a central locking system that confirms secure closure.
Is installation tool-free?
Yes — it uses Thule's PowerClick mounting system, which includes a torque indicator that clicks audibly once properly attached.
Can it hold skis and snowboards?
Yes, the 75 kg load capacity and 450-liter volume are designed to accommodate luggage, gear, skis, and snowboards.
Is the Thule Pulse 2 L water resistant?
No — according to Amazon's product listing, this model is not rated water resistant, which is worth considering if you'll be storing moisture-sensitive gear.
Bottom line
The Thule Pulse 2 L delivers genuine Thule engineering — tool-free mounting, dual-side access, and central locking — in a more accessible, everyday-focused hard shell roof box. Just factor in the lack of water resistance if you're packing gear that needs to stay completely dry.
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