Wheel logo

How to Choose the Right Universal Roof Rack for Your Vehicle

Roof Racks

By Harold CamayaPublished 5 years ago 5 min read
Like

Finding the right roof racks for your vehicle is extremely important. Factory roof racks made to fit a specific vehicle can often be too limiting for the needs of avid extreme sport and outdoor fans. Many factory roof racks simply don't have the scope to handle the mountings for bikes, kayaks and other gear. Factory roof rack crossbars are also typical of more inferior quality than those made with quality in mind. Instead of concentrating on what matters, factory roof racks look great but are most often unable to handle a heavy load. Here we'll be taking you through a complete look at how to buy the right universal roof rack for your vehicle. Once you've been through our guide, you'll be able to shop with confidence finding a roof rack which not only looks fantastic, but works perfectly for its purpose too.

Universal Roof Rack Benefits

A universal roof rack is a universal form of storage. Transporting oversized items is easy, thanks to never having to battle with the space constraints of your car. Roof racks are far more customizable than their factory standard counterparts. You can even add and remove pieces to personalize the design. This also makes replacement possible, should things go wrong. Space, flexibility, and longevity is unbeatable. A universal roof rack typically costs more than alternate attachments like cargo carriers or roof bags, but there is no way that the protection or available space can compare, while the overall durability of these alternative storage devices pales in comparison. A good set of universal roof racks will last as long as your vehicle. They're waterproof, and their rounded design decreases vehicle drag, which improves gas mileage. The best designs will be straightforward to remove, so consider fitment difficulty for occasional or seasonal use.


Key Universal Roof Rack Features

Here's a look at the features which you need to look for, and what you can expect to find. No matter what budget you're shopping under, never sacrifice any aspect of quality. A universal roof rack is a lasting purchase that really proves its value over time.

Aerodynamics

Look for a roof rack design which exhibits cutting edge aerodynamics. The more you'll be carrying on your roof the higher the burden on your fuel economy. If you'll only be using your roof racks occasionally, then this isn't too much of an issue, but for frequent use or long trips look for aerodynamic designs. Be on the lookout for very flashy designs. All too often great looks and excellent aerodynamics mask shoddy manufacturing and cheap materials. You want high quality throughout the design of your universal roof rack.

Securement Type

There are four main ways to attach roof racks to your vehicle. The type that you need depends on the method featured by your car. Firstly, some vehicles don't have any mounting for roof racks. You'll need a universal design, which secures above the door. These designs cannot carry as much weight as other fixtures, but they're functional nonetheless. Raised roof rails elevate roughly two inches above the roof. This is the most common type of mounting found on 4X4s and SUVs, and is typically the strongest. Solid roof rails are very similar to their raised counterparts, but are incredibly aerodynamic. They're more modern, look better, and improve drag. At times a vehicle will have fixed points where a roof rack attaches. This is the preferred method of fitment although certain universal roof racks, which fit without mountings, will work as well. They're preferable if you've got fixed points but plan to remove your roof racks after each use.

Material Type

Steel and aluminium comprise the two basic types of roof racks. Steel universal roof racks are the cheaper option, but create more drag. They're also the culprit behind the whistling sound, which many roof racks make. Aluminium roof racks are preferable, but make sure that they're not cheaply put together. They offer superior durability when made by a reputable manufacturer, and are far lighter, which gives you much better fuel consumption. In most cases, the more expensive the aluminium rack, the better the aerodynamics and weight capacity.

Height Restrictions

If you own an SUV and plan to add considerable height atop your rack, then make sure your clearance doesn't run too high. Most racks will give you a safe height, but you'll still need to drive keeping this in mind, to clear low hanging branches and other obstacles. Also, keep in mind the loading difficulty at such a height. Some owners may wish to carry a step, to help load their universal roof racks easier.

Accessories

The best universal roof rack will also have a range of accessories expanding its versatility. Look for things like rooftop tents, cargo boxes, and mountings for other gear like canoes or paddle boards. Most good manufacturers have holders for Jerry cans, water canisters, and just about anything else that you could need.

Avoid plastic.

You're looking to avoid plastic like the plague. Plastic becomes brittle, and guarantees that your roof rack will eventually need replacing. You really get what you pay for when buying a roof rack so look for the highest quality all-around construction.

Buy universal roof racks made for bikes.

Universal roof racks are an excellent alternative to a trailer. There is no better way to carry lightweight bikes such as the Yamaha WR250R6. The right vehicle and set of roof racks will even carry bigger bikes, like the Suzuki DR650 and make the most of your off-road vehicle. Get yourself a set that'll be handy both in town and while off the beaten path. Once you've got the right fitment and made sure that the right range of accessories is available for your needs, you can start looking at roof rack security. Even if you can't see yourself stopping on the way, make sure that whatever is on your rack is also under lock and key.

Roof Racks: Look for long lasting quality.

A good set of roof racks will never damage your vehicle in any way, while always giving a massive amount of packing space. A roof rack can be found to fit any vehicle, and suited to any purpose. Most reputable brands will also last a lifetime. Take the time to shop carefully so that you'll only need to change your rack when you change your car.

Author’s Bio

Harold is a marketing enthusiast, and an influencer in different verticals. She keeps a special interest in the impact of visual branding on business growth. She has been writing for a long time now, and has an interest in traveling as well.

how to
Like

About the Creator

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.