by Rack Magic Woman on January 27, 2012
Q: Do I understand I need the foot pack and the square rails to attach one of your cargo carriers to my Infiniti EX35? Can you also give me your best fit for my car – 3 moderate sized pieces of luggage.
A: Does your Infiniti have factory raised side rails or a naked roof? And just to clarify, are you looking for a luggage box or a cargo basket?
Q: I have the raised roof rails and I would like an aero luggage box.
A: The Thule Altantis 1600 ought to have enough room for three suitcases with a bit to spare. Dimensions: 74″(L) x 36″(W) x 16.3″(H). We have plenty of other shapes and sizes available.
And yes, you do need to get some kind of crossbars between those roof rails to use a box. Take a look at the Thule 450R system – the new aerodynamic crossbar shape is quieter than square bars.
Q: I have the factory crossbars (packed away) but they are fixed at 19″ spacing, hence the interest in the Thule system. I assume the Thule system will elevate the box to clear the factory spoiler.
A: You will get a few inches of elevation with the 450R. To be sure about spoiler clearance, you may need to do some measurements, but the mounting hardware on the boxes allows for some fore/aft adjustment to prevent hatch interference.
by Rack Magic Woman on January 26, 2012
Q: I currently drive a 2011 Honda Fit Sport. On the 2007 Nissan Sentra, which I no longer own, I bought online a Fit Kit. I already have the bars, etc. I just needed a Kit to match with the bars, intended for 2011 Honda Fit. The following link, http://www.orsracksdirect.com/thule-racks-2180-fitkit-honda-fit-roof-rack.html, is what I found, thus I ordered them originally.
I am confused with the 2 Fit Kits you mentioned below, each having their respective systems. If the above link is no longer valid, suggest to update it accordingly to redirect to the appropriate model, system applicable to date.
Pardon me asking, why would there be 2 Fit Kits of different systems? What is the correct item for my 2011 Honda Fit Sport?
In closing, please ship out the vehicle specific rack systems with the fit guides developed by our vendors for approved an tested fits applicable for my 2011 Honda Fit Sport.
A: The link to the 2180 fit kit you found which stated it is for the Honda Fit is for the Honda Fit model years 2007–2008. Your Honda Fit, being a 2011, requires a different fit kit.
The reason there are two different fit kits is because Thule made two different rack systems for the Honda Fit. Please review the following links and let us know which is the system that matches what you had on your 2007 Nissan Sentra. The Thule 400XT Aero Foot Pack or the Thule 480 Traverse Foot Pack.
Once you have confirmed this then we can make sure you get the correct fit kit for the system you currently have that you want to now put on your Honda Fit.
by Rack Magic Woman on January 23, 2012
Q: I’m looking for suggestions on what rack you would recommend as a hitch rack for carbon road bikes?
A: My go to rack in this category is the Thule 916XTR T2, $395.95. Part of that is simply because I am and have always been a Thule gal. But I do also like the design and features of the T2. That being said, the Yakima HoldUp, $377.10, has many of the same features as the T2 including the ability to add a 2 bike add on to carry 4 bikes.
I am least familiar with the Saris 4239 Thelma 3, $332.99, and I am not all that impressed with the look of the plastic wheel trays. But I am sure it is still a great rack and it is the least expensive option.
by Rack Magic Woman on January 10, 2012
Q: I’m interested in purchasing the HighRoller bike rack and the whispbar rail system. I’ve heard that they are not compatible and the FrontLoader was suggested. I’m not interested in it. Are there any mounts available to solve that problem?
I’m also concerned about the size of the whispar for my car… I own a 2003 Audi Allroad and another website recommended a different size from the one specified in your Fit Guide. Unfortunately I don’t know the exact size between the rails, but I’m going to check that prior to the order.
Could you provide me with links for all that’s required to make the rack? and locks for rack-bar and rack-bike?
A: First, I cannot find an authorized Whispbar fit for your 2003 Audi Allroad with factory raised side rails. You must be looking under a different Audi model than I am in the fit guide.
You can mount the HighRoller on the Whispbars and other wider bars, including factory installed crossbars, using the Yakima Universal Mighty Mounts.
While you can lock the bicycle to the HighRoller with the included cable lock and Yakima Locks SKS two-pack, sold separately, you will not be able to lock the HighRoller to the Whispbar rack.
The below text is from the HighRoller product page and does a good job of spelling out the differences between the HighRoller and FrontLoader.
Tim asks – What is the difference between the HighRoller and the FrontLoader?
ORS Crew answers – Great question. There really isn’t much that separates the considerably more expensive HighRoller and the cheaper priced FrontLoader except that the HighRoller has a rear strap that can be accessed from either side of the bike tray. Unlike the FrontLoader, which will mount directly to factory rack cross bars, the HighRoller will NOT connect directly to factory racks however, you would need to use a set of Yakima Universal MightyMounts clamps with the HighRoller to connect it to factory rack crossbars. Also, while you can use a Yakima SKS lock in the integrated locking cable on the HighRoller to lock the bicycle to the HighRoller, you can’t simply use another Yakima SKS lock core to lock the HighRoller itself to the roof rack. You would have to also purchase a Yakima Lock Housing Unit to insert a lock core into. The FrontLoader, however, offers the convenience of simply using a Yakima 2-pack of locks to lock the bicycle to the carrier, via the integrated cable lock, and also the FrontLoader itself to the roof rack by inserting a lock directly into the front end of the carrier. Basically, Yakima Racks first released the HighRoller, then a couple years later realized they needed to offer a similar bike rack that connects directly to factory racks and will also optionally lock to the vehicle. The FrontLoader also uses the same very sleek low-profile bike tray as found on the fork mount style Yakima ForkLift bike rack. So really, unless you feel strongly about the need for a two-sided rear wheel strap, you will want to choose the cheaper priced FrontLoader bike rack over the HighRoller. And you’ll be gaining better security features and the ability to attach the carrier directly to factory racks.
by Rack Magic Woman on December 30, 2011
Q: I have two vehicles, a 2003 VW Passat Wagon and a 2007 Volvo XC 90. I’m looking to equip them with a Thule system, and both have factory rails–so I believe I’ll require the Thule Crossroads 450. However, I’m unsure whether the 50″ or the 58″ Thule load bars will be sufficient, or will I need different size bars to accommodate the VW and Volvo?
A: Yes, both vehicles will use the Thule 450 CrossRoad Roof Rack System. It is true that the Volvo takes the 58” load bars and the VW takes the 50” bars. However, you could still use the 58” bars on the VW if you don’t mind the extra 4 inches on either side.
And, while the Volvo does call for the 58” bars you may be able to trim them down once you mount them and see how they fit. Thule only lists the minimum bar length you can use, but since they only sell the bars in certain lengths it is possible you could get away with something in between 50” and 58”. They are easy to cut down with a hack saw.
We also have a couple of 450 packages that include locks that will save you a bit of money if you were to buy the rack and locks separately since the racks do not come with the locks. One package comes with the 58” bars and one comes with the 50” bars.
by Rack Magic Woman on December 28, 2011
Q: I have a 2010 scion xb with a Yakima permanent mount rack system. I would like to add the wisp-bar rails. Does Yakima offer a whispbar system for Yakima tracks? Also which MightyMount would be needed to work with the higher?
A: Yes, we can get you a Whispbar Rack system to mount to the Yakima tracks you have permanently mounted on your 2010 Scion xB. First we need to get a little more information from you regarding the tracks and the particular style Whispbars you would like.
First, what is the measurement from center to center of the spread between the tracks? This information is necessary to make sure you get the correct length Whispbar cross bars. You also need to choose which style Whispbar cross bars you would like. Here are your options:
Whispbar Flush Bar Roof Rack – This option is the cleanest look as the bar ends are enclosed in the feet.
Whispbar Through Bar Roof Rack – This option has the bars extending out past the feet by a few inches on either side. This option will give you a little more bar area to mount whatever it is you want to mount (ski, bike, kayak carriers, etc).
Whispbar HD Bar Roof Rack – This is a beefier bar that works the same as the Through Bars, but have the potential to carry more weight (up to 220 lbs vs. 150 lbs for the other bars), but this is dependent on the vehicle. Since your application is not an official fit, we cannot quote an increased capacity.
And lastly you would need the K450 fit kit. The fit kits are included in the above mentioned complete systems, but you would just need to request this particular fit kit for your application.
by Rack Magic Woman on December 27, 2011
Q: I would like the dual kayak system as shown in the picture below for my 2010 GMC Canyon 4 Door Crew Cab. Can you please provide a required material list?
A: Here is what you will need for this set up on your 2010 GMC Canyon 4 door crew cab:
Thule 480 Traverse Half Pack Rack (includes 480 Traverse half foot pack, single LB58 load bar & 1461 fit kit) – This will be the single bar that will mount to the top of your truck cab.
Thule 997 GoalPost T-Bar Hitch Rack – This is the rear bar that will attach to your receiver hitch.
Thule 883 Glide & Set Kayak Rack x 2 – These are the kayak saddles and tie downs.
by Rack Magic Woman on December 16, 2011
Q: I am trying to find my options on roof racks. Two questions:
(1) Trying to figure out if the Yakima RailGrab kit actually will fit on to the factory rail on my 2008 Buick Enclave CXL. Yakima site says yes. But some Internet postings disagree. Have you had experience with this vehicle?
(2) If I do go ahead with the Yakima setup, I have a pair of Thule Ski Racks, is there an adapter which would allow me to use the Thule Ski Racks on Yakima Round Cross Bars?
A: Yes the Yakima Railgrab is listed as fitting the ’08 Enclave using the small claws that are included. I have no personal experience with this vehicle, but here is the fit guide limits and bar size:
| BUICK Enclave |
| Year Range: |
2008-2012 |
|
Fit Type: |
Top |
| Factory Rack: |
Factory Flush Siderails |
|
Weight Limit: |
100 lbs |
| Tower: |
RailGrab |
|
Required Accessory: |
|
| Crossbar Length: |
58″ CrossBars |
|
Recommended Fairing: |
38″ Fairing |
| Front Clips: |
Small Claws |
|
Rear Clips: |
Small Claws |
And most Thule racks that are made after say 2003 will fit to Yakima bars, if older then you may need to try and source a discontinued Thule adapter called the FM1.
by Rack Magic Woman on December 12, 2011
Q: I purchased a Thule rack system little over 2 years ago and I noticed that the Thule Tracker II feet I have are very loose on the pin. Is this normal? It seems to be getting worse, too. At first it was just one set about a year ago, now the other 2 are just as wobbly. They seem very loose on the pins and rock forward and backward very easily, even though they are locked on. Shouldn’t they fit snug and tight?? I am concerned they will come loose and I will lose my rack AND my gear!Is there anything you can do for this?
A: They do tend to loosen a bit over time. Are they loose with the bar on them? If so you probably need to tighten the bolt that applies pressure to the bar itself, that should stop some of the wobble. I have never seen or heard of one releasing. They are meant to have some degree of adjustability to them. As long as you cannot pull them off without engaging the release button you should be fine.
by Rack Magic Woman on December 8, 2011
Q: I just bought a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the stock flush rails. I was wondering if you guys have any advice for rack system. Thule vs Yakima. I can’t find too much info. It seems like the flush roof rails are somewhat limiting in how far you can spread the bars. I need a rack for carrying bikes and a travel box, but also a single rowing shell. The single is about 28′ long, but only weighs 35#. It comes with a boat carrier and some heavy duty, C-shaped clamps. I have put the boat carrier on Subaru factory aero bars, and it put some dents in the bars. I did use it on an older rack with the square Thule bars without problem. I was thinking of going with the Thule RB47’s, but any thoughts would be appreciated.
A: Your 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the factory installed flush rails can accept either the Thule 460R Rapid Podium Roof Rack System (includes 460R Rapid Podium foot pack, RB47 cross bars and 4019 fit kit) or the 480R Rapid Traverse Roof Rack System (includes the 480R Traverse Rapid foot pack, RB47 cross bars and 1656 fit kit). The 480R system does attach to the door jams (which you do not want) and only have a weight capacity of 130lbs. While the 460R attaches to the factory rails and have a weight rating of 165lbs. So it sounds like the 460R would be the better choice for you. Unfortunately, I cannot find a maximum spread on the 460R system from Thule.
Another option if you want the ultimate in versatility and best bar spread is to install a set of Thule TP54 54″ Thule Tracks to the roof of your Jeep and then use the Thule 430R Rapid Tracker II Roof rack System (includes 430R Rapid foot pack, RB47 cross bars and TK1 fit kit) on the tracks. The tracks do require drilling into the top of your Jeep’s roof. Here are the instructions to give you an idea of what is involved.
The cargo box and rowing shell carrier will fit on the Rapid Aero bars. I am not sure what bike racks you have so cannot say about those, but if they were on your Subaru with the factory bars then they will also fit onto the Rapid Aero bars.
by Rack Magic Woman on December 6, 2011
Q: I own a Mercedes Benz GLK 350 2010 with factory crossbars and would like to install a Thule 599 big mouth rack. Will the bike rack fit on my factory crossbars?
A: The online fit guides don’t showing a version of your car with factory crossbars, just side rails (you should be able to use the Thule 599 if the crossbars are present) – so I checked with Thule and sure enough they said there is a OEM bar option that you probably have and you can use the Thule 599 Big Mouth with your 2010 Mercedes Benz GLK 350. If you didn’t have the optional crossbars, you could have gone with a Thule 450 or 450r system as a base rack and then add accessories for four seasons.
by Rack Magic Woman on December 1, 2011
Q: Is there a recommended roof rack system, a fixed rack system, for a 2011 nissan rogue s with naked roof?
A: Yes, we do have a roof rack system for your 2011 Nissan Rogue. I would recommend either of the two options below. The only difference is the bar style. The second one is a more modern design and might better suit your vehicle and your style if you are into that.
Thule 480 Traverse Roof Rack System, (includes 480 Travers foot pack, LB58 load bars and 1587 fit kit).
Thule 480R Rapid Traverse Roof Rack, (includes 480R Travers foot pack, ARB53AeroBlade bars and 1587 fit kit).
But then I noticed that you mentioned “fixed system”. Do you mean you want to permanently drill into the roof of your vehicle and do a permanent rack system? If that is the case then you have a couple of other options noted below.
Thule 460 Podium Roof Rack System, (includes 460 Podium foot pack, LB58 load bars and TK14 attachment points). With this system, the four attachment points are fixed in place. Here are the installation instructions for this system.
Thule 460R Rapid Podium Car Rack, (includes 460 Podium foot pack, LB58 load bars and TK14 attachment points). Same system as above with the AeroBlade bars.
Another option is to mount a set of Thule TP54 54″ Tracks and then one of the two above mentioned 460(R) systems (but instead of the TK14 you will get the TK1). This option is a little more versatile since it allows you to slide and adjust the distance between cross bars from front to back. Here are the installation instructions for this system.
by Rack Magic Woman on November 30, 2011
Q: I’ve got a Mazda5 minivan with integrated side rails on the roof and am looking for a roof rack set to load a soft carrier onto. Looks like you guys have several options and expert advice. Can you advise on an option for me?
A: We actually offer a cargo bag (the Yakima FarOut Pro Roof Bag) that can mount directly to the roof of most vehicles without any additional racks. However, your Mazda 5 has sliding rear doors, which I believe may not allow this, though you may be able to mount it through the front doors. This would be the best option, since you will only be using it once in a great while.
Otherwise you will need a base rack to attach a cargo bag. The least expensive, yet still quality, option will be the Inno IN-XR Roof Rack System (includes IN-XR stays, B117 cross bars and TR120 fit hooks). NOTE: this assumes your Mazda 5 is a 2006-2010. If not then the actual fit and components may be different.
Using this base rack will give you many more options of cargo bags to choose from. Here are a couple to look at:
SportRack Sherpa 13 Car Roof Bag – bare bones, budget bag.
Thule 846 Quest Roof Bag – middle of the road in features and price.
Thule 857 Caravan Roof Bag – best bang for your buck.
by Rack Magic Woman on November 29, 2011
Q: I am planning on buying a 2011 or 2012 subaru outback. I have the Thule 45050 Complete railing rack with feet, locks and 50″ bars
I hope to buy a hullavator for my kayak,the thule says it will work on this car but I can’t figure out how I can get the hullavator far enough apart to properly fit around my cockpit. The racks need to be 36″ apart. From the pictures I’ve seen, the rack seems “fixed” and unable to accommodate rack placement this far apart and, I can’t find any dimensions on line.
Do you have any experience mounting a thule hullavator system on a 2010 subaru or newer?? If so, what rack combination worked for you? How far apart were you able to place the Thule crossbars?
A: We do not necessarily have any direct experience installing the 45050 on the vehicle you mentioned, but we do know that is does fit and as you stated the Thule Fit Guide states the Hullavator will work on this car.
Here is a link to the Hullavator Instructions to maybe help clear things up a little.
Please note on page 2 that “Load bars must be at least 24″ (610mm)apart for safe use.”. But you do not need to clear the boat’s cockpit in order to use the rack.
Also note on page 2, the first step in #1 states that “Load bars must extend equally between 4″ and 8″ beyond foot. Adjust as necessary. In rare instances, longer load bars then those recommended in the Thule Fit Guide may be required for your vehicle.” This is to make sure the kayak and rack do not make contact with the car when the rack is pulled out and down. There is no way to know in advance if this will be an issue. Often times it is best to buy longer bars and then cut them down if they are too long or there is not risk of interference with the side of the car.
by Rack Magic Woman on November 23, 2011
Q: I have a Hyundai Tuscon 2005 with roof side racks and Yakima cross bars presently using the Malone system Kayak racks. Will two the Hull a Vator kayak systems fit on my car?
A: Yes! The Thule Hullavator will work on your Yakima cross bars. The only thing you should be aware of is that you need 4 to 8 inches of bar overhang, which you probably don’t have with the crossbars recommended for your vehicle in the Yakima Fit Guide. When the Hullavator is in the down position, it will make contact with the side of your car if not mounted far enough outboard.
Hullavator carries a boat up to 32 inches wide, and the Tucson tapers out quite a bit from the roof to the doors, so I’d go with a 66 inch cross bar, get both racks set up so as not to bang into your car, then trim the excess bar with a hacksaw.
by Rack Magic Woman on November 16, 2011
Q: I have a 2010 Ford Flex with a Vista roof. Want to carry skis . Not sure if I want a Thule “bin” style carrier, or an actual ski clamp. Nothing on the car right now, but appears to have channels to fit something. Have read various website forums, where Ford does not recommend putting anything on a Vista roof (huge sunroof)….but everybody does it. Would love some direction.
A: First you will need a base rack system. Thule lists their 480 Traverse Roof Rack System (includes 480 Traverse foot pack, LB58 load bars and 1518 fit kit) as compatible with your 2010 Ford Flex with dual sunroofs (assuming this is the same as the Vista roof). As for whether to go with a cargo box (bin?) or a ski rack, that is personal preference, but here are some things to consider: Obviously the ski rack is going to be much cheaper than a cargo box. On the order of $300+.
If you want a classic ski rack, our best value at the moment is the Thule 91725 Universal Flat Top ski rack for $117.95.
However, the cargo box will hold more skis and other gear and will keep your gear safe from the elements, including road salt. And you can use it all year round for other gear such as fishing rods, camping gear, etc, etc. They install in a matter of just a couple of minutes so you can easily remove it when you don’t want it on the car.
I have a 2005 Toyota Matrix with an Thule Atlantis 1200 on it.
2005 Toyota Matrix with Thule Atlantis 1200 Roof Box
Very useful and looks great.
You can also read a similar Q&A regarding this very same circumstance here.
Tagged as:
Ford Flex
by rackdawg on November 12, 2011
ORS Direct, parent company of ORS Racks Direct, has just announced they have launched their Google+ business page. Customers, anyone involved in outdoor recreation and sport and vehicle transport systems for their gear and equipment can now visit the Google+ page for ORS Racks Direct to join and follow the page, staying current and up-to-date with all company information, promotions and events in the outdoor industry, as well as the car rack and truck rack industries. Furthermore, in conjunction with going live on Google+, the company announced they are currently offering an exclusive promotion for anyone joining and following the ORS Racks Direct Google+ business page with an exclusive coupon offering additional discounts at the e-commerce web site. The company intends to update the Google+ page regularly with information about the latest car rack and truck rack product offerings, installation photos, product reviews, rack videos and more. ORS Direct added that they have also launched Google+ pages for other web properties including ORS Snowsnoes Direct and ORS Cross Country Skis Direct, websites specializing in the winter outdoor gear industry.
Tagged as:
ORS Racks Direct
by Rack Magic Woman on November 11, 2011
Q: I’m wondering does anyone (either Thule or Yakima or whoever) sell a carrier that supports surfboard/kayak/bike all-in-one? I’m going to be buying a new SUV soon and wanted to find out this info first and would rather just get it all-in-one. If not, what’s the best product for just surfboard/kayak?
A: The INA-444 is a great carrier for kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or surfboards. It works very well with plastic recreational boats, but probably isn’t the best choice for Kevlar or fiberglass touring kayaks.
And with a base rack system by Thule, Yakima or Inno, you could simultaneously use both the surf/kayak carrier and any of a number of bike carriers offered on our site. With wide enough crossbars, it will likely be possible to carry two bikes alongside your watersports carrier.
by Rack Magic Woman on November 8, 2011
Q: I just got a rockymount board rack for my car but i need the roof bars for my 2 door car. i drive a 99 ford escort zx2 and cant find roof bars for a 2 door car just 4 door any way you can help me out?
A: The only base rack fit for that car I can find is the Inno IN-SU with the K526 fit hooks and B117 bars. Because your car is a 2-door, you also need the short roof adapter, which helps compensate for the limited bar spread on most 2-door sedans.
by Rack Magic Woman on November 7, 2011
Q: Someone in my family drove my car under a parking garage and messed my roof rack up. I am trying to fix some of the parts. Can you please look at the attached photo and tell me what the tower is called, and if you sell the internal claw part that is bent up? The housing, lock, and pin all seem OK, so if I can get the claw piece it should work.
A: Unfortunately you cannot replace just the claw, so you would need to replace the entire tower. You can order them directly from our site. They are part number 8810149 and they are currently $44.00 a piece.
by Rack Magic Woman on November 3, 2011
Q: I’d like to buy the TracRac T-Rac system to use on my 1998 Nissan Frontier – will this work?
A: According the the manufacturer there is no fit for the TracRac T-Rac system that works with your 1998 Nissan Frontier. The heavier duty TracRac G2 Sliding Truck Rack will work with a 1998 Nissan Frontier. If you are interested in this system, measure the exact inside length measurement of your truck bed to make sure you order the correct components that go with the TracRac G2.
Another option is the Thule 422XT Xsporter Truck Rack which has a carrying capacity of 450 lbs.
Tagged as:
TracRac G2
by Rack Magic Woman on November 2, 2011
Q: Can the Whispbar T17 HDXB be mounted onto Thule or Yakima tracks using the Thule K450 fit kit? Also what is the weight capacity of the HDXB bars?
A: Yes, the Whispbar T17 HDXB can be mounted onto Thule or Yakima tracks using the Thule K450 fit kit. The weight capacity of the HDXB bars is 100 kg or 220 lbs.
by Rack Magic Woman on November 1, 2011
Q: I’m looking for a roof rack for my 2010 GMC Acadia with factory side rails – the Yakima online fit guide has 2 fits – how do I know which one to choose?
A: You are right, the Yakima online fit guide shows a fit for 2007-2012 with Yakima RailGrab roof rack and 48” bars. It also has a fit for 2010-2012 with Yakima RailGrab and 58” bars. There appears to be two different GMC Acadia side rail options starting in 2010. The main difference is that the rail bars that require 58” cross bars is a slimmer bar with an open track on the top. Have a look at the pictures below – you can compare to what you have and select the correct length crossbars for your 2010 GMC Acadia.
Image of GMC Acadia factory rails - this one would use Yakima Rail Grab and 48" Bars
GMC Acadia Factory Bars - Slimmer Bar with open track at the top - use Yakima Rail Grab and 58" Cross bars.
Tagged as:
GMC Acadia,
Yakima RailGrab
by Rack Magic Woman on October 31, 2011
Q: I have a 2000 Audi TT. I need a cheap but sturdy rack for a long surfboard (11 foot). I would prefer a surfboard package but I do not have a base rack system on the TT right now. What should I do?
A: First of all to carry a long surfboard you will need to get a base rack system for your TT. I would recommend Thule’s 480 Traverse system. Then you would need a way to secure it to the roof rack. I would recommend Inno’s INA744 boardlocker which fits perfectly onto Thule’s base rack and gives you the capability to lock your surfboard.
by rackdawg on October 29, 2011
Picture of the Green Mountain National Forest, the boundless backyard for the neighboring Rikert Nordic Skis and Snowshoes Activity Center in Middlebury, Vermont.
A new feature for Car Rack Advice, beginning with this article post, is to call attention to specific outdoor recreational destinations throughout the United States and Canada. We aim to bring attention to places offering worthwhile memorable experiences; places you would want to load up your car rack and hit the highway with alpine and cross country skis, snowboards, snowshoes, SUP’s, surfboards, bikes, kayak and canoe, camping equipment and more. Destinations for you to use your outdoor gear with maximum enjoyment. First on our list is a place we are personally extremely fond of because it is located in the great state of Vermont, where we are located. We’d like to call attention to Middlebury, Vermont and its plethora of winter outdoor recreational options. A prominant factor in the region’s offerings is Middlebury College, as they offer an array of winter activities for their students, however they feel it is also important to allow the general public to take advantage of these opportunities as well. The Rikert Cross Country Skis and Snowshoes Activity Center is very popular and offers nordic skiing and snowshoeing for all ages and abilities. It also acts as the gateway to entering and exploring the Green Mountain National Forest on snowshoes or telemark-backcountry skis. Alpine skiing, telemark skiing and snowshoeing is also available for the entire family at the college’s Middlebury Snow Bowl. In town there is ice skating, snow sledding, and of course a huge selection of choices for shopping and eating. Hockey also plays a large role with Middlebury, and the college has a long history of wins. Check out the Cross Country Skis & Snowshoes Directory for Middlebury, Vermont, which list further information and details for the options listed here, as well as additional listings of winter recreational events, news and destinations in the Middlebury, Vermont region.
Tagged as:
cross country skis,
snowshoes
by Rack Magic Woman on October 28, 2011
Q: Is there a mount that allows you to attach a 2011 Yakima Buttondown ski/snow board holder to a track one rail? I’ve seen several that attach to Thule, wanted to make sure there’s one that fits the Trac one rail and if there is which model it would be.
A: Yes, you could utilize the Yakima Universal Mighty Mounts to mount the Yakima ButtonDown to your TracONE rails.
by Rack Magic Woman on October 27, 2011
Q: I’m looking for a kayak rack for my 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan (Wolfsburg edition). I have the two bars on top of my roof but I don’t have cross ties (racks) to hold the kayak. The car has a panoramic sunroof (large) and an antenna on the roof in the back in the middle. Can you recommend a kayak rack for this car? I’d prefer to spend $100 or less for the cross bars/tie off.
A: Your best bet is the Thule 450 CrossRoads ($228.85 a bit more than $100 but well worth it) system and once you have these bars spanning across the vehicle you can use any type of kayak rack. The type of kayak rack you select is somewhat dependent on the kayak type/material you buy. Super wide kayaks may be best in a J cradle like the 835xtr, or if getting an expensive fiberglass boat then consider the 883 Glide and Set.
by Rack Magic Woman on October 20, 2011
Q: I’m looking to install a Yakima rack on a 4 door 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. Here’s question 1. What is the maximum weight load that I can put on the racks? At the most I would be carrying two Kayaks and 2 mountain bikes at the same time. Question(s) 2. I get the impression from looking at your site info that there are two approaches to installing a Yakima rack. One uses a track which is mounted to the fiberglass top to which the towers are mounted on. The other seems to use landing pads which get mounted directly to the roof. Assuming this is true, it seems the track approach provides more flexibility since you can move the towers to adjust the distance between the bars. In comparison using the landing pads mean once you select the position, you cannot change it. Is this true? And lastly, without seeing more detail of the CapNut hardware, I’m not sure how this works (e.g., how big are the holes and how many do you have to drill?, how big are the bolts?, how are they tightened?). Can you provide a little more description? Once I drill holes in the fiberglass roof, I won’t be able to undrill them and want to be sure they will be secure relative to mechanical loading, be H20 proof, and if necessary, replaceable. Should I worry about cracking or splitting emanating from the holes?
A: Unfortunately this is a difficult vehicle to install a rack upon to provide a lot of weight capacity. And in fact, Yakima does not give any indication of weight limits to I cannot give you any maximum load level. Yakima has two suggested options, first is using the 1A Raingutter System but to only mount on the rear door gutter for 24’ of bar spread. Second, is to permanent mount with LP6 and a Control Tower System but even here they say to not mount on the removable t-top portion up front.
Here are the notes for the permanent install from Yakima:
Notes
405. Weight and load limits must be determined by the customer. Load limitations can vary depending on placement of Landing Pads and strength of material being attached to. Landing Pad 7 has a maximum weight rating up to 100lbs.
406. Do not install Landing Pads on the removable panel over the doors. Only install over the rear portion of the hardtop.
409. A factory installed luggage carrier will prohibit the installation of this application.
411. Landing Pads 6 and 7 are a permanent installation. Be sure to look at the CrossBar Spread Table to determine the correct distance between brackets for your loads.
412. A sunroof or moonroof will prohibit the installation of this application.
415. Fairing length may vary depending on location of Landing Pad installation. Measure the distance between your Yakima towers to determine an appropriate length.
There is a third viable options using tracks but please note Yakima provides no recommendations for use of a track, but we sell this option all day long for mounting into fiberglass truck caps. With tracks you need to drill 5 holes per track, they do provide silicon sealant and I’m not sure how to measure the hole but the bolt is about the thickness of a number 2 pencil, and maybe a inch and half long. I would overseal to prevent leakage, and to date have not heard of any roof cracking (one truck caps which they are used on a lot) or leakage or replacement issues, but since these are mechanical devices in a fiberglass roof then all are possibilites and none can be ruled out. I personally have drilled into my own truck cap back in 2004 with a Yakima track and have no issues but I would always worry somewhat about cracking or splitting emanating from the holes. I’ve inspected my cap every few years and see no signs of failure. Whether a Jeep top is of the same level of constructions I cannot answer.
Now Thule (a competing brand) offers a bit more leniency with weight ratings, in fact they say you can carry up to 165lbs, this is using their 300 Raingutter System with at least 58” bars.
So given your situation and what you want to carry, I say go Thule (at least you have their sanctioned fit) and avoid the drilling issues!
Tagged as:
Jeep Wrangler,
rack for fiberglass top
by Rack Magic Woman on October 19, 2011
by Rack Magic Woman on October 17, 2011
Q: I have a 2006 Honda Accord 4 door sedan – what are the options for a surfboard rack that will work with my car?
A: Here is some information on carrying surf boards on a 2006 Honda Accord 4 door sedan.
Base rack options:
Thule 480 Traverse Roof Rack System, this rack system includes the 480 foot pack, 1304 fit kit and 58” cross bars. This would be my first choice for the base rack. I have used them for years and always had good luck.
Yakima Q Towers Roof Rack System, this rack system includes the Q Tower foot packs, Q Clips (Q6 front, Q83 rear) and 48” cross bars. Yakima is the other major brand besides Thule. They are also a quality brand. They use round bars where Thule uses square bars.
Inno IN-SU Roof Rack System, this rack system includes the IN-SU foot packs, K294 fit clips and 50” cross bars. Inno is the most popular rack system in Asia and has been making inroads in the US market over the past years. Their fit & finish is slightly less dialed than Thule or Yakima. They use the exact same shape and size bars as Thule.
Surf Carriers(all require one of the above base racks and all will fit any of the above racks no matter the brand):
Thule 809 Double-Decker Surf Rack, Lockable holds up to two boards.
Yakima WaveHog SUP / Surf Rack, Lockable, holds up to three boards.
Inno INA744 BoardLocker Board Rack, Lockable, holds up to two boards.
As you can see there are lots of great choices for a 2006 Honda Accord surfboard rack – hope this helps!
