After one month using the Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro as a dirtbike hauler here's what we've liked about it.
Another month with the 2024 Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro under our belt, and it’s safe to say that this ute continues to impress. After putting it through a few more rigorous tests and tweaks, it’s proving to be a reliable and capable companion for any dirt bike or adventure bike enthusiast. Here’s what we’ve experienced since our last review.
MAKING IT WORK: TIE-DOWN SOLUTIONS
One of the first things we realised after a few weeks of loading and unloading bikes was that the electric tonneau cover that comes exclusive to the Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro, while incredibly convenient and secure, covers up some of the factory tie-down points in the tub. This made securing bikes a bit of a challenge, especially when we were hauling multiple bikes. To solve this, we decided to install eye screws into some of the existing mounts. These simple modifications have made a world of difference. Now, we’ve got solid tie-down points that work perfectly with the tonneau cover, allowing us to secure everything from dirt bikes to adventure bikes without a second thought.
These eye screws are a small but significant upgrade, giving us peace of mind that the bikes are firmly in place, whether we’re hitting the highway or navigating rough backroads. It’s a quick fix that any rider who uses the Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro for hauling bikes might want to consider.
FUEL ECONOMY: EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
Fuel economy is often a concern when you’re running a powerful ute like the Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro, especially when you’re using it for heavy-duty tasks like towing and hauling. But we’ve been pleasantly surprised by how efficient this Mazda has been. Over the past month, we’ve averaged an excellent 10.0L/100 km, both in the city and on the highway. This includes everything from daily commutes to more demanding trips with a full load.
Considering the power and capability this ute offers, particularly when towing or loaded up with bikes, this fuel efficiency is a major plus. It means less time and money spent at the pump and more time enjoying the ride.
THE ULTIMATE SUPPORT VEHICLE: ADVENTURE BIKE SHOOTOUT
One of the biggest tests for the Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro came when we used it as the support vehicle for an adventure bike shootout. We embarked on a journey from the Central Coast to Nundle, a route that took us through a mix of city streets, highways, and winding rural roads. The mission: to transport five adventure bikes—one in the tub and four on a trailer—across diverse terrain.
Getting an adventure bike into the tub was no small feat. These bikes are big and bulky, and it took some effort to maneuver one into place. We ended up fitting the bike on an angle, which wasn’t ideal but worked thanks to the spacious tub. Once secured, the BT-50 Thunder Pro handled the load with ease.
Towing the remaining four bikes on a trailer, the BT-50 didn’t miss a beat. The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine provided plenty of power, making it feel like we were hardly towing at all. Even with the extra weight, the ute remained stable and composed, handling the winding roads with confidence. Whether we were climbing steep hills or cruising on the open highway, the BT-50 delivered smooth, consistent performance.
FINAL THOUGHTS: STILL IMPRESSING
After another month of hard use, the Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro continues to prove itself as a versatile and capable vehicle. From daily commutes to serious off-road adventures and heavy towing, it’s handled everything we’ve thrown at it with ease. The modifications we’ve made, like adding eye screws for better tie-down options, have only enhanced its utility, making it even more suited to the demands of dirt bike and adventure bike enthusiasts.
With excellent fuel economy, impressive power, and the ability to haul multiple bikes without breaking a sweat, the BT-50 Thunder Pro remains a standout choice for anyone who needs a reliable, rugged vehicle that can do it all. We’re looking forward to seeing how it performs in the months to come, but so far, it’s been nothing short of impressive. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to put the BT-50 through its paces—because any day spent with bikes and a capable ute is a good day.
Mitch Lees