Roof Rack Alternatives
Roof racks come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and configurations. The most common roof rack is an open rack designed to hold gear either in a roof bag or open to the weather. For skis and gear that you want protected from the elements, an enclosed roof carrier might be your best option. Enclosed roof carriers tend to be low profile to reduce wind drag and minimize any adverse impact on your gas mileage. Roof bike racks are preferred for keeping bikes up and out of the way when transporting them. And specialty racks such as ski racks and kayak racks are ideal for the snow and water enthusiast.
Roof racks of any kind generally require a roof base rack system as an attach point. Base rack systems are relatively simple, consisting of four towers (sometimes called footpacks) and two crossbars (sometimes called load bars). Roof base racks are occasionally factory installed on certain vehicles, but in most cases base racks are purchased as an after-market item. Base racks are vehicle specific.
We carry a wide selection of Yakima, Thule and Inno roof racks. We also carry a number of other brands for specific roof rack applications.
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| Yakima Roof Racks |
Yakima offers 4 different roof basket racks and a full line of complementary accessories. |
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| Thule Roof Racks |
Thule offers 2 rugged roof basket racks that are available in multiple sizes and with optional accessories. |
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Why choose an open roof rack?
If you already have a weatherproof bag for your gear, or if your gear won't be bothered by the elements, investing in an open roof rack may be the way to go. Open roof racks can also be used in conjunction with a bike, ski, or kayak rack so that you get the most from your roof rack setup. Think of an open roof rack as a flexible storage solution.
What is a roof rack extension?
A roof rack extension is simply an extension to your rack to provide more storage space. Typically, adding a roof rack extension will increase total capacity by roughly 40%! Thule makes an extension kit for its MOAB roof rack. Yakima makes extension kits for its MegaWarrior, LoadWarrior and BasketCase roof racks. Roof rack extensions also will include in an accessory bar for mounting roof bike racks, snow racks or water sports racks to your rack. Adding an extension kit to your roof rack is a great way to maximize its versatility.
What other accessories are available for a roof rack?
The most popular accessory for open roof racks are cargo nets, which are generally custom-sized to the size of the basket rack and allow you to secure your gear inside the rack. Given that your gear will be traveling on top of your vehicle and you will probably be driving highway speeds at some point, this can be a very important addition to your open roof rack. Both Thule and Yakima do make other accessories for their roof basket racks, including light kits, locking brackets, and more. Be sure to check them out!
Shipping Information about Roof Racks?
Roof racks are some of the largest items that we sell. In most cases, they can be broken down and shipped directly to your home or office via FedEx Ground or UPS. Due to their size and weight, freight costs on open roof racks are comparable to other products that we sell, like hitch cargo carriers and cargo racks.
However, in some cases, the racks do not break down and must be shipped in one piece. In these cases, open roof racks will ship by common carrier (18 wheel truck) and freight costs will be more expensive than if it ships by FedEx and UPS. If you order one of these racks, you will still be able to track your package online, using a Bill of Lading number which works just like a FedEx or UPS tracking number. If you're comparing multiple roof basket racks, it can also be helpful to compare their shipment method and cost.
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