Roof Rack Cross Bars
Roof Rack Cross Bars: Universal, Vehicle-Specific & Overlanding Crossbars
Roof rack cross bars are the foundation of every roof rack system. They are the horizontal bars that mount across the top of your vehicle, creating a secure base upon which specialized carriers are clamped. Without a pair of quality crossbars, you cannot mount a roof top tent, cargo box, bike rack, kayak carrier, ski rack, or rooftop basket. Cross bars distribute weight across the vehicle's structural mounting points to prevent roof damage while giving you the carrying capacity to haul everything from camping gear and luggage to snowboards and adventure equipment.
At Off Road Tents, we carry roof rack cross bars from Thule, Eezi-Awn, Rhino-Rack, Front Runner, and other trusted brands. Whether you need thule roof rack cross bars for a Subaru, universal roof rack cross bars that fit vehicles without factory rails, car roof rack cross bars for a weekend getaway, or heavy-duty load bars designed to support a roof top tent on overlanding trips, you will find the right crossbars here. Every set ships free.
📞 Not sure which cross bars fit your vehicle? Call us at 844-200-3979. Tell us your year, make, and model. We will confirm compatibility and help you find the perfect fit for your roof type and carrying needs.
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Featured Roof Rack Cross Bars
We carry cross bars for roof rack systems across multiple brands and vehicle types. Here are four of our most popular crossbar options, from universal load bars to vehicle-specific kits.
Eezi-Awn Load Bar Set
Price: From $230.00
Type: Universal load bars | Material: Aluminum
Sizes: Multiple lengths available
Eezi-Awn load bars are built for overlanding. These universal cross bars are constructed from corrosion-resistant aluminum, designed to handle heavy loads like roof top tents, cargo baskets, and expedition gear. Available in multiple lengths to fit a wide range of vehicles. Eezi-Awn has been building overlanding equipment in South Africa for decades, and their load bars reflect that experience with durability and versatility that budget crossbars simply cannot match. Easy installation with T-slot compatibility for mounting accessories.
Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars
Price: $509.90
Type: Vehicle-specific | Capacity: 220 lbs
Fits: Subaru Outback Wilderness
Thule WingBar Evo crossbars are the gold standard for aerodynamic roof rack cross bars. WindDiffuser technology reduces wind noise and drag for improved fuel efficiency. BoxBeam internal structure creates an exceptionally strong load bar capable of carrying up to 220 lbs. QuickAccess T-slot cross bars allow tool-free accessory mounting. We carry Thule crossbars for Subaru Outback, Subaru Forester, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota RAV4, Jeep Wrangler, Ford Explorer, and many more. Each kit is designed for a perfect fit on your specific vehicle. Thule evo crossbars are built in the Netherlands and backed by a lifetime warranty.
Eezi-Awn K9 Load Bar Kit (4Runner)
Price: From $640.00
Type: Vehicle-specific | Fits: Toyota 4Runner 5th Gen
System: K9 roof rack mount
The Eezi-Awn K9 Load Bar Kit is designed specifically for the Toyota 4Runner 5th generation. This is a complete kit that mounts to the Eezi-Awn K9 roof rack system, giving you a secure platform for roof top tents, cargo boxes, and other accessories. Heavy-duty aluminum construction for durability in any weather condition. The K9 system is one of the most trusted roof rack platforms in the overlanding community for 4Runner owners who need to carry serious gear into the backcountry. If you own a 5th gen 4Runner and want 4Runner roof rack cross bars built for expedition use, this is the kit.
Rhino-Rack Vortex RLT600 (Tacoma)
Price: $643.95
Type: Ditch mount 2-bar system | Fits: Tacoma 2005-2023
Design: Vortex aerodynamic
The Rhino-Rack Vortex RLT600 is a ditch-mount 2-bar roof rack system designed specifically for the Toyota Tacoma (2005-2023). Ditch mounting gives you a lower profile and more secure connection than clamp-style crossbars. The Vortex bar shape is aerodynamic, reducing wind noise at highway speeds. Compatible with Rhino-Rack accessories and most universal mounting hardware. This is the Tacoma roof rack cross bars solution that overlanders prefer when they need a rock-solid foundation for carrying a roof top tent, rack, or cargo equipment on their truck.
Types of Roof Rack Cross Bars
Cross bars usually connect to vehicles using feet designed for specific roof types. Understanding which mounting style your vehicle requires is the first step to finding the right cross bars for roof rack setup.
By Mounting Style
Raised Rail Cross Bars: If your vehicle has raised side rails running along the roof (common on SUVs like the Subaru Forester, Subaru Outback, Jeep Cherokee, and many European models), you need cross bars with feet that clamp onto those raised rails. These are among the easiest to install and often require no tools beyond what is included in the kit. Roof rail cross bars provide a secure, rattle-free connection.
Flush Rail / Fixed Point Cross Bars: Many newer vehicles have flush-mounted rails or factory fixed points integrated into the roof. Toyota RAV4, Ford Explorer, and newer Subaru Crosstrek models use this style. The cross bars attach using vehicle-specific fit kits that clip into the factory mounting points for a clean, low-profile look.
Bare Roof Cross Bars: Vehicles without any factory rails or mounting points (bare roof) need a clamp-style foot system that grips the door frame. This is common on trucks like the Toyota Tacoma and many sedans. Universal roof rack cross bars without rails typically use this approach. Installation of roof rack cross bars in this style typically requires a fit kit that includes vehicle-specific mounts and legs designed for secure attachment.
Ditch Mount / Track Mount Cross Bars: Some vehicles, especially trucks, can use ditch mounts (bolted to the rain gutter channel) or track-mount systems for the most secure connection. The Rhino-Rack Vortex RLT600 for Tacoma is an example of this style. Ditch mounts are popular in the overlanding community because they provide a rock-solid platform for heavy loads.
By Bar Shape
Aerodynamic / Wing Bars: Thule WingBar Evo and similar aerodynamic bars feature a teardrop cross-section that reduces wind noise and improves fuel efficiency. These are the quietest crossbars on the market and the best choice for daily drivers who leave their rack on year-round. Aerodynamic roof rack shapes reduce wind noise and improve fuel efficiency significantly compared to square or round bars.
Square Bars: Traditional square-profile crossbars are compatible with the widest range of accessories. Most T slot cross bars use a square profile with a channel on top for mounting clamps. Budget-friendly and universally compatible, though they generate more wind noise than aero bars. Square bars remain the go-to for overlanders who prioritize versatility over silence.
Round / Oval Bars: Some manufacturers use round or oval-profile bars. These sit between aero bars and square bars in terms of noise and compatibility.
How to Choose the Right Cross Bars
Vehicle Compatibility Comes First
When choosing roof rack cross bars, it is important to consider vehicle compatibility, weight capacity, and aerodynamic shape. Start with your vehicle. Every crossbar system is designed around a specific roof type (raised rail, flush rail, bare roof, or ditch mount). Getting the wrong mounting style means the bars will not fit, no matter how good they are. We carry vehicle-specific kits for Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Outback, Subaru Forester, Subaru Crosstrek, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and dozens more. If you are not sure what your vehicle needs, call us and we will look it up for you.
Weight Capacity
Dynamic weight capacity typically ranges from 100 to 165 lbs for standard cars and SUVs. This is the maximum weight your crossbars and roof can safely carry while driving. Static weight capacity (when parked) is typically 3-4 times higher. If you plan to mount a roof top tent (most weigh 100-200 lbs), you need crossbars rated for that weight plus a safety margin. For lighter loads like a bike rack, kayak, or cargo box, standard capacity crossbars work fine. Always check both the crossbar rating and your vehicle's roof load rating, whichever is lower is your limit.
What Are You Carrying?
Your crossbar choice should match your primary use. For roof top tents and heavy overlanding gear, go with heavy-duty load bars from Eezi-Awn or Rhino-Rack. For daily driving with occasional weekend trips carrying a cargo box or bike racks, aerodynamic Thule crossbars are the perfect fit. For budget setups where you need universal cross bars that handle light to medium loads, square-profile bars with T-slot channels offer the best versatility at the lowest price. Many roof rack cross bars can be installed without the need for additional tools, as they come with all necessary hardware included.
Cross Bars by Vehicle
Cross bars can be mounted to existing raised side rails of vehicles, expanding carrying capacity for various accessories like rooftop baskets and car top bags. Here is a quick guide to the most popular vehicles we sell cross bars for.
| Vehicle | Roof Type | Recommended Cross Bars | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota 4Runner (5th Gen) | Factory raised rails | Eezi-Awn K9 Load Bar Kit, Thule WingBar Evo | 4Runner cross bars should match factory rail spacing |
| Toyota Tacoma | Bare roof / ditch mount | Rhino-Rack Vortex RLT600, Thule WingBar Evo | Ditch mount preferred for overlanding use |
| Toyota RAV4 | Flush rails / bare roof | Thule WingBar Evo with fit kit | RAV4 roof rack cross bars need year-specific fit kit |
| Subaru Outback | Raised rails | Thule WingBar Evo (2015-2019, 2020+, Wilderness) | Subaru roof rack cross bars are among our top sellers |
| Subaru Forester | Raised rails | Thule WingBar Evo with raised rail feet | Subaru Forester cross bars fit easily on factory rails |
| Subaru Crosstrek | Raised rails | Thule WingBar Evo | Subaru Crosstrek crossbars are a popular purchase |
| Jeep Wrangler | Hard top / bare roof | Thule WingBar Evo with Jeep kit | Jeep roof rack cross bars need hard top-specific mounts |
| Jeep Cherokee | Flush rails | Thule WingBar Evo with fit kit | Jeep Cherokee roof rack cross bars for flush rail models |
| Ford Explorer | Flush rails / raised rails | Thule WingBar Evo | Ford Explorer roof rack cross bars vary by year |
Do not see your vehicle? We carry crossbars for dozens of additional models including Yakima roof rack cross bars alternatives. Call us at 844-200-3979 with your year, make, and model, and we will confirm which roof rack crossbars and universal roof rack crossbars fit your car, truck, or SUV. Whether you need subaru forester roof rack cross bars, subaru crosstrek roof rack cross bars, universal cross bars for roof rack setups, or a roof rack with cross bars as a complete package, we have the products and the knowledge to find the right solution.
What Can You Mount on Cross Bars?
Cross bars are designed to expand the carrying capacity of vehicles, making them ideal for transporting gear for outdoor activities such as camping, sports, and road trips. Once you have a pair of crossbars installed, you can mount virtually any rooftop accessory. Cross bars can be used to mount a variety of accessories, including kayak carriers, bike racks, and luggage boxes, enhancing the versatility of outdoor gear transport.
Roof Top Tents: Mount a soft shell or hard shell roof top tent directly to your cross bars for instant overlanding capability. Most RTTs require at least 30-32" of bar spacing. Cargo Boxes: Thule Motion, Force, and Vector series cargo boxes clamp onto cross bars for secure, weather-protected storage of luggage, skis, snowboards, and gear. Bike Racks: Roof-mounted bike racks like the Thule UpRide bolt to your crossbars for frame-free bike transport. Kayak Carriers: J-style and saddle-style kayak mounts attach to crossbars for paddling adventures. Cargo Baskets: Open-top baskets mount to crossbars for carrying coolers, firewood, camping gear, and anything that does not need weather protection. Ski and Snowboard Racks: Slide-in carriers hold multiple pairs of skis or boards securely on the roof.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to use roof rack cross bars?
Roof rack cross bars install on top of your vehicle's roof using mounting feet matched to your roof type (raised rails, flush rails, bare roof, or ditch mount). Once installed, the crossbars serve as the secure base for mounting accessories. You clamp, bolt, or slide accessories like cargo boxes, bike racks, kayak carriers, and roof top tents onto the bars using the T-slot channel or universal clamp hardware. Many cross bars can be installed without additional tools as they come with all necessary hardware included. After the initial install (typically 20-45 minutes), leaving your cross bars on is perfectly fine for daily driving.
What are the best roof rack cross bars?
For aerodynamics and quiet highway driving, Thule WingBar Evo crossbars are the best roof rack cross bars on the market. They reduce wind noise, improve fuel efficiency, and support up to 220 lbs. For heavy overlanding loads, Eezi-Awn load bars and Rhino-Rack Vortex bars are built for the demands of carrying roof top tents and expedition gear across rugged terrain. For budget universal setups, square-profile T-slot bars from Front Runner and other brands offer the widest accessory compatibility at the lowest price. The best cross bars depend on what you need to carry and how often you drive with them installed.
Will cross bars fit my car?
Cross bars are available for virtually every car, truck, and SUV on the road. The key is matching the mounting system to your vehicle's roof type. Vehicles with raised side rails use clamp-on feet. Vehicles with flush rails use clip-in fit kits. Vehicles with bare roofs (no rails) use clamp-style or ditch-mount feet. We carry car cross bars and crossbars for roof rack setups on Toyota, Subaru, Jeep, Ford, Chevy, Honda, Hyundai, and more. Truck cross bars for models like the Tacoma, Tundra, F150, and Colorado are also available. Call us with your year, make, and model for a guaranteed fitment answer.
How much weight can roof rack cross bars hold?
Dynamic weight capacity (while driving) typically ranges from 100 to 165 lbs for standard cars and SUVs. Some heavy-duty systems support 220+ lbs. Static weight capacity (when parked) is usually 3-4 times the dynamic rating, which is why you can sleep in a 150 lb roof top tent on bars rated for 165 lbs dynamic. The overall weight limit is determined by the weakest link in your system: the crossbar rating, the foot/mount rating, or your vehicle's factory roof load rating. Always check all three numbers. For roof top tent use, we recommend crossbars with at least 150 lb dynamic capacity.
Are universal cross bars any good?
Universal roof rack cross bars can work well for lighter loads like cargo bags, small baskets, and light accessories. However, for heavier loads like roof top tents, multiple bikes, or kayaks, vehicle-specific crossbars from Thule, Rhino-Rack, or Eezi-Awn are a better choice. Vehicle-specific kits include feet and mounting hardware engineered for a perfect fit on your exact car or truck, ensuring maximum weight capacity and minimal vibration. Universal crossbars for roof rack setups are a good budget option when you need basic carrying capacity, but they may not provide the same load rating or quiet ride as a brand-name system.
Do cross bars affect gas mileage?
Yes, but the impact depends on bar shape. Square-profile crossbars create more aerodynamic drag and can reduce fuel economy by 1-3 MPG at highway speeds. Aerodynamic bars like the Thule WingBar Evo are specifically designed to minimize drag, reducing the fuel economy impact to well under 1 MPG in most cases. If you leave your crossbars on year-round (as most overlanders do), investing in aerodynamic roof rack cross bars pays for itself in fuel savings over time. Removing the bars when not in use eliminates the drag entirely, but most people find the convenience of leaving them installed outweighs the small fuel cost.
Can I mount a roof top tent on cross bars?
Yes. Most roof top tents mount directly to cross bars using included mounting hardware. You need crossbars with a minimum 30-32" spacing and a dynamic weight capacity that supports the tent's weight (typically 100-200 lbs). Thule crossbars, Eezi-Awn load bars, Rhino-Rack bars, and Front Runner load bars are all compatible with roof top tent mounting. Some tents require adapter kits (like the Thule Xadapt 14 for TracRac systems). Check your crossbar's weight rating against the tent weight before purchasing. We help customers confirm tent-to-crossbar compatibility every day, so call if you need help.
How to remove roof rack cross bars?
Removal depends on your mounting system. Most clamp-style crossbars (raised rail or bare roof) can be removed by loosening the torque key or bolt on each foot, lifting the bar off the roof, and storing it in your garage. Ditch-mount and track-mount systems require unbolting the mount points. Thule crossbars use an ergonomic torque limiter key that makes installation and removal straightforward. The whole process takes 10-20 minutes for most systems. Some overlanders remove their crossbars for car washes or when not hauling gear, but many leave them installed permanently since the weight and drag penalty is minimal, especially with aerodynamic bars.
Why Buy Cross Bars from Off Road Tents
We are not just a crossbar store. We are overlanders who mount roof top tents, cargo boxes, bike racks, and expedition gear on these bars every day. When you call us about roof rack cross bars, you get advice from people who know whether a specific pair of crossbars will support your tent, fit your rack, and handle the road conditions you are heading into. Whether you search for thule cross bars, roof crossbars, 4Runner crossbars, or car crossbars, you will find the right products here.
We carry crossbar products from Thule, Eezi-Awn, Rhino-Rack, and Front Runner. Every set ships free. And if you are building a complete setup (crossbars + roof top tent + accessories), we can help you discover the right combination so everything works together from the start. We have helped families find crossbars for their weekend getaway rigs, overlanders maximize the space inside their vehicles by moving gear to the roof, and adventurers pursue their passion for exploring with peace of mind knowing their setup is solid. You will not find our products on Amazon because we focus on premium, overlanding-grade equipment with personal support. No guessing, no returns, no wasted time.
Related Guides
Roof Rack Buying Guide
Full guide to roof rack systems, including platform racks, basket racks, and cross bar setups.
RTT Mounting Guide
How to mount a roof top tent to your cross bars, rack, or bed rack safely and correctly.
Weight Limits Explained
Dynamic vs static capacity, vehicle ratings, and how to calculate what your roof can safely carry.
All Roof Top Tents
Browse the full selection of roof top tents that mount to your new cross bars.
Shop All Cross Bars
Thule, Eezi-Awn, Rhino-Rack & more. Vehicle-specific and universal. Free shipping.
