With a shiny new number plate securely in place, the 2024 Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro continues to perform without a hitch. After six months of use and thousands of kilometres, it’s still proving itself as the ultimate companion for any dirt bike enthusiast. This month, it saw action as a support vehicle on a trail tour through the rugged Blue Mountains, and it didn’t just keep up—it excelled.
THE TONNEAU COVER: AN UNSUNG HERO
Let’s talk about that electronic roller tonneau cover. If there was ever a feature we were skeptical about when it came to durability and practicality, it was this one. But several months in, it’s clear that the roller cover is not just a clever gimmick—it’s a workhorse. We’ve been tying down dirt bikes against it with zero issues, even under heavy loads and long drives. The cover hasn’t budged, warped, or shown any signs of wear, despite frequent use.
That being said, on one occasion, we loaded gear that was slightly too tall to fit under the closed cover. In this case, the cover automatically stopped when it encountered resistance. A quick press of the reset button, and it was back in action. This smart functionality saves us time and keeps everything secure without compromising the mechanism.
The tie-down setup has been flawless. Bikes stay put without a single wobble, even on rough roads. It’s a testament to both the strength of the tonneau cover and the thoughtful engineering behind its design. Whether it’s a couple of dirt bikes or a mix of bikes and gear, this setup has handled everything we’ve thrown at it with ease.
BLUE MOUNTAINS TRAIL TOUR: A SUPPORT VEHICLE THAT SHINES
The BT-50 Thunder Pro’s versatility really came to the forefront when we used it as a support vehicle for a trail tour through the Blue Mountains. This was no casual drive—it involved navigating rugged terrain, tight trails, and tricky spots to help stranded riders. The BT-50 didn’t just keep up with the dirt bikes; it held its own, racing through the mountains with confidence and ease.
The suspension once again stole the show. Whether crawling over rocky sections or speeding along fire trails, the ride was smooth and controlled. The cabin’s comfort was another standout feature, giving us a chance to recharge between stops while riders on their dirt bikes were feeling every bump.
The BT-50’s off-road capabilities were put to the test when we had to reach riders stuck in particularly difficult spots. Thanks to its part-time 4×4 system, locking rear differential, and exceptional ground clearance, the ute powered through mud, steep climbs, and uneven terrain without breaking a sweat. It’s clear that this isn’t just a road-focused ute—it’s a genuine off-road performer that can handle the tough stuff.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Mazda BT-50 Thunder Pro continues to impress. From its flawless roller tonneau cover to its ability to tackle the Blue Mountains trail tour with ease, it’s proving itself as more than just a comfortable ute—it’s a dirt bike enthusiast’s dream. Whether serving as a reliable hauler, a comfortable daily driver, or a rugged support vehicle, it’s been up to every challenge.
We’re looking forward to seeing what else this beast can handle in the coming months. For now, it remains our go-to for everything from local track days to epic trail tours.
