How to use roof rack cross bars?

Roof rack cross bars are an amazing piece of accessory and are very versatile in the ways you can use them. You can mount and install a variety of items on it, including various gear and even roof top tent. You can also install roof rack baskets or maybe even an awning system. If you are into some outdoor sports like biking and kayaking, you can even have a bike mount where you can attach your bike or even strap a kayak or canoe to your roof rack cross bars.

What is the best roof rack positioning?

It is recommended that you leave around 70cm between each of your cross bars. Why? Because that way you can evenly distribute any load you have on top of them. There are usually 2 roof rack cross bars but you can add more if you feel like it.

Do I need raised side rails to use cross bars?

Yes and no. While a lot of roof rack cross bars require side rails in order to install them there are also ones that do not need rails at all. For example, you can get gutter-mounted roof rack cross bars or even clip-on ones.

How do universal roof racks work?

Universal roof rack cross bars have adjustable legs that slide alongside the width of the cross bar itself and you can simply adjust them to the width of your roof and tighten them. Keep in mind that not all roof rack cross bars out there are universal and not all of them function that way.

What is the difference between cross bars and racks?

Roof rack cross bars and platform roof racks, despite serving the same purpose, are distinct pieces of equipment. While roof rack cross bars typically consist of a pair of bars running across the width of the car's roof, a platform rack has more than two bars—often 6-7 or more, depending on the vehicle. These bars are interconnected with a frame, giving the platform rack its characteristic platform-like appearance.

Do you need crossbars for a roof box?

In theory you could install a roof box or a cargo carrier without crossbars. You would be able to install one over a platform rack, or even over a bare roof as long as you have straps to hold the box securely over your roof. However, cross bars are the best and easiest way to have a roof box over your vehicle. The reason being is that most cross bar manufacturers also make roof cargo carriers that perfectly fit their cross bars shapes and design. Therefore, if you plan to purchase a cargo carrier, then it’s a good idea to buy a set of cross bars from the same brand. You will notice at the bottom of these roof boxes, there are two horizontal channels that seamlessly fit the cross bars from the same brand. Resulting in a safe, secure and rattle free transportation of the box itself.