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Reviews

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Here’s a really solid overview of the Thule 460R Rapid Podium roof rack system, featuring the ultra-sleek and whisper-silent Thule AeroBlade crossbars. The informational video includes an installation of the complete car rack system on  rooftop fixed-points for a premium factory rack looking 2011 Honda CR-V roof rack crossbars multi-purpose system. With the system installed you can then connect any roof mount gearcarrier attachments to the AeroBlade load bars. The components used in the 2011 Honda CRV car rack install are the Thule 460R Rapid Podium Foot Pack, Thule 3042 Podium Fit Kit and pair of Thule ARB47 AeroBlade load bars. The 460R Rapid Podium system is Thule Racks most versatile roof rack solution, as it is often used for other configurations such as mounting to flush side rails, roof tracks and certain custom, permanent rack applications. There are many Podium Fit Kits available, each designed for a specific application and particular vehicle year/make/model.

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Here is a nice follow-up instructional video to watch after viewing the Thule 92724 Flat Top / Thule 92725 Flat Top video. This movie features the Thule 92726 Universal Pull Top ski rack-snowboard rack. It is very similar to the Thule 92725, as it also includes the cool new SpeedLink Universal Mounting Clamps, holds up to 6 pr skis or 4 snowboards (and you can carry skis and snowboards at the same time), and includes locks to simultaneously lock the carrier to the car and equipment inside the carrier. Where the 92726 Universal Pull Top ski rack differs is the innovative telescoping cradle arms that will slide out over the side of the car. This makes it super easy to load and unload the snow boards and skiis.  Then the arms retract back into the stored position on the rooftop. The video provides a great demonstration of how this works. Fits factory racks, Thule AeroBlade, square and round crossbars, Whispbar, Yakima, Inno etc. After watching both videos you will have a good foundation for making a decision on what ski rack is best for your needs.

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This is a great instructional video for the new Thule 92724 Universal Flat Top ski rack (holds up to two snow boards or 4 pr skis)  and Thule 92725 Universal Flat Top ski rack (holds up to four snow boards or six pr skis). The 92724 replaces the older model 91724 and the 92725 replaces the older model 91725. The biggest improvement is the totally advanced Thule SpeedLink Universal Clamp Mounts integrated onto the underside of the ski carriers. Using a wrap-around strap and tension dial, it is effortless to attach the 92725 and 92724 to any roof rack crossbars, including factory rack cross bars, all Thule load bars (including AeroBlade bars, square bars etc.), all Whispbar and Yakima bars, Inno cross bars and so forth. Thule locks and keys are included for locking the rack to the car and the skis and snowboards to the rack.

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This is a really good explanatory video of how to assemble and install the Whispbar Through Bar roof rack system on vehicles with factory side rails (in this case it is the Whispbar S18 Through Bar SmartFoot & Crossbars components combined with the Whispbar K328 Fit Kit mounted to factory side rails for a 2008 Volvo XC70 roof rack system). The true value of this demonstration movie is how selecting the Through Bar system, instead of the Whispbar Rail Bar system, you gain the flexibility of choosing longer cross bars — very handy for gear and equipment transport configurations that require attaching many gear carriers, hauling very wide gear loads etc. While the Whispbar Racks Rail Bar car rack system for factory side rails delivers a very clean, factory integrated look due to the cross bars ending flush with the side rails, you are restricted in using that specific length of crossbars on the particular vehicle year/make/model they are mounted to. This could present problems if there isn’t enough space on the crossbars for all the roof mount gear carriers you want to attach or when transporting a couple wide kayaks, canoe and so forth. That’s when going with the Through Bars is the better choice.

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Whispbar Rail Bar Roof Rack Video

by rackdawg on September 24, 2011

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view Whispbar Rail Bar videos page

The Whispbar Racks Rail Bar roof rack system is designed specifically for mounting to vehicles with factory side rails. It differs from the other Whispbar multi-purpose base rack systems, such as the Through Bar, HD Bar and Flush Bar roofrack systems, because it does not require the additional use of a Whispbar Fit Kit to mount to the vehicle. Instead it connects directly to the side rails (hence, it does not cost as much as the other systems either). This Whispbar Rail Bar video provides a solid, in-depth look at the system and even includes an installation of the Whispbar S53 Rail Bar roof rack model on a 2008 Volvo XC90 that has factory side rails. The whisper-quiet aerodynamic cross bars prevent any rack noise (a common problem with other car racks). Also, no other set up results in such a seamless, factory integrated look. Sleek, polished and stunning looking. The crossbars are also universally designed to accept any roof mount gear carriers, regardless of manufacturer. Locks are included. Whispbar is a premium product division of Yakima Racks.

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view Whispbar Roof Rack Systems Comparison video

Just released is this excellent, in-depth comparison review and installation video by ORS Racks Direct, featuring the Whispbar Flush Bar roof rack system, Whispbar Through Bar roof rack system and Whispbar HD Bar roof rack system (the Whispbar Rail Bar option is featured in its own movie because it differs from these other systems due to its design that does not use the SmartFoot – Fit Kit technology). The video also provides a good step-by-step procedure for installing the Whispbar Flush Bar on a car with factory installed fixed rack attachment locations on the roof top (fixed-points). In this case the car is a Subaru Impreza. Also, for visual comparison, a single Whispbar Through Bar is attached to the roof in the front, while the single Flush Bar is on the back of the roof. This effectively allows the movie viewer to compare the looks of both systems on a cartop. Very helpful when trying to decide which product to go with. Also, at the end of the movie there is a great informational section detailing how to determine which length cross bars on the Through Bar and HD Bar systems will work on any specific vehicle model. Having the ability to choose longer cross bars than what are normally recommended is a great way to gain extra crossbar space when carrying lots of gear and equipment. Whispbar roof racks feature superior anti-noise generating technology, are ultra slim and low profile and stunning to set your eyes on.

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Thule AeroBlade Load Bars Video Review

by rackdawg on September 22, 2011

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Check out this nice and not-so-lengthy official Thule Racks introductory video review of the rad, new Thule AeroBlade load bars, the car rack industry’s most advanced roof rack crossbars that combine total whisper, quiet silence (translate that into a peaceful noise free ride while driving down the highway) and aerofoil shape, low-profile design that maximizes fuel economy. Of course most people will just go for the stunning good looks, they are so fast looking they look like they are ready for lift off! This introductory Thule AeroBlade load bars video review features footage taken of wind-tunnel testing and crash testing, as well as comparative analysis with other leading crossbars models from other car rack manufacturers such as Yakima, Whispbar, Atera and Mont Blanc. Check out this page for complete Thule AeroBlade bars information. They are available in four sizes, ARB43 43 inches length, ARB47 47 inches length, ARB53 53 inches length and ARB60 60 inches length.

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ORS Racks Direct Reviews

by Rack Princess on April 13, 2011

rack-installationORS Racks Direct strives to provide the best customer service experience possible,  from helping you to choose the rack that fits your vehicle and meets your gear carrying requirements to getting those orders on the truck and on their way as quickly as possible. Once in a while we like to check on how our customers feel about us – it keeps us motivated! You can see how we’re doing too by checking out these reviews of ors racks direct – thanks for the kudos and for keeping us on our toes!

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Thule 460 Podium Car Rack Review by ‘Tim’

by rackdawg on March 16, 2010

Thule 460 Podium roof rack review by 'Tim'. He is using the 460 podium system as a 2010 BMW 328i roof rack that he then attaches a couple bike carriers to.

Thule 460 Podium roof rack review by 'Tim'. He is using the 460 podium system as a 2010 BMW 328i roof rack that he then attaches a couple bike carriers to.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

Configuration: 2010 BMW 328i roof rack for carrying bikes

“If you will simply take your time to read the Thule 460 Podium car rack instructions and follow them step by step, assembly and mounting is a snap – start to finish. They look great and are very sturdy. This is my second BMW and my second Thule roof rack and bike carrier system. It is well worth the cost and the best way to go if you want to haul your bikes around with total confidence!”

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thule-430-tracker-roo rack review

Thule 430 Tracker II roof rack review by 'J. Cochran'. He is using the 430 Tracker system as a 2006 Ford F-250 tonneau cover rack.

Overall Rating: 4 Stars (out of 5)

Configuration: 2006 Ford F-250 tonneau cover rack for attaching bike racks

“I purchased the Thule 430 Tracker II rack kit to install over my truck bed tonneau cover. Install was a breeze! The perfect solution for transporting our (4) bikes when we tow our travel trailer. These load bars are heavy duty! Secure the tracker kits in position, snap on the tracker feet, secure load bars….ready for bike trays. Simple push button removal to store bars and feet when not in use. These are so easy to remove, lock cylinders are a must. The only inferior part of this system is the TKCAP covers. The tabs inside the covers are paper thin. One of mine broke the first time I put it on, and the other three have a very loose fit. If not for the TKCAP issue, this kit would be 5 stars.”

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Thule 480 Traverse Review by ‘Derek’

by rackdawg on March 10, 2010

Thule 480 Traverse car rack review by 'Derek'. He is using the 480 Traverse system as a 2005 Honda Accord roof rack. The Thule 835Pro Hull-a-Port is then attached to the 480 Traverse cross rails.

Thule 480 Traverse car rack review by 'Derek'. He is using the 480 Traverse system as a 2005 Honda Accord roof rack. The Thule 835Pro Hull-a-Port is then attached to the 480 Traverse cross rails.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

Configuration: 2005 Honda Accord roof rack for carrying a kayak

“Installing the Thule 480 Traverse roof rack system was a snap! I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to do it by myself, but I was very pleased with how easily it all went together. I also use the Thule Hull-a-port Pro for carrying my kayak, and I am very pleased with how stable everything is! I never have to worry about transporting my kayak again.”

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Thule 480 Traverse roof rack system review by 'Andrea". She is using it as a 2003 Chevy Silverado pickup truck rack.

Thule 480 Traverse roof rack system review by 'Andrea". She is using it as a 2003 Chevy Silverado pickup truck rack.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

“I ordered the Thule 480 Traverse roof rack system for my husbands 2003 Chevy Silverado pickup truck and he was able to install the system and found it fairly easy to do. I also ordered the fairing because I think it makes the overall system look better and sportier. I am overall happy with my purchase, although I cannot compare it to the Yakima Racks system because I have never owned one but many canoeing enthusists tell me the Thule system is better than Yakima. The only suggestion I would make is that on the fairing they suggested that his truck would need the size Large and to me the fairing doesn’t look quite wide enough for his truck. After measuring it and looking at the meausurements for the xlarge I think the xlarge would have been the better choice because I think the fairings should go across the whole vehicle.”

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Thule 916XT T2 Review by ‘Neil’

by rackdawg on March 9, 2010

Thule 916XT T2 review by 'Neil'. He is using it as a 2007 Chevy Avalanche hitch bike rack.

Thule 916XT T2 review by 'Neil'. He is using it as a 2007 Chevy Avalanche hitch bike rack.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

“I purchased the Thule 916XT T2 platform bike rack in January and have been completely satisfied. The lcoks for locking the bikes to the T2 are sweet, and also the lock for the hitch is great for making sure your T2 bike rack is secure at all times. I have several different size and types of bicycles and the Thule T2 handles them all easily and with no modifications. You can’t go wrong with this rack.”

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Thule 916XT T2 review by 'Dennis'. He is using it as a 2008 Lexus RX400h hitchbike rack.

Thule 916XT T2 review by 'Dennis'. He is using it as a 2008 Lexus RX400h hitch bike rack.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

“Spent about a week reading reviews between the Thule 916XT T2 and the Yakima Holdup since they are the popular 2 that does not touch any painted part of the bike. I then decided to stay with Thule because of the convenience of the locking mechanism and the availability of smaller parts (like locks or accessories) at local retail shops. The 916XT T2 rack has a very solid feel and is very stable. The bikes can be mounted and locked with 10 seconds and have enough space between them so that no parts are touching each other. With the addition of the Thule Snug-Tite hitch lock, the bike rack does not sway side to side (although it bounce once in a while). The assembly is pretty simple and real easy as well. Lastly, I had to decide where to order the rack. ORS seems to have their act together and have good customer service so I went ahead and placed the order with them.”

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Yakima Raptor Review by ‘Brian’

by rackdawg on October 5, 2009

Yakima Raptor bike rack review by 'Brian'. He has mounted 2 Raptor bike racks to his 2004 Toyota Sienna.

Yakima Raptor bike rack review by 'Brian'. He has mounted 2 Raptor bike racks to his 2004 Toyota Sienna.

This Yakima Raptor bike rack review is by ‘Brian’. He is using the Yakima Raptor as a 2004 Toyota Sienna bike roof rack system for carrying his sons’ bicycles.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

“As our boys grow, their bikes will obviously grow with them. The Yakima Raptor works perfectly to eliminate the need for a new bike mount as their bikes get bigger. Since the Raptor doesn’t utilize the front forks to mount, it doesn’t matter how small or large the bike is, it will always work. And with a great price, you can’t ask for anything more.”

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Thule 430R Rapid Tracker car rack review by Adam D. of NJ. He is using the 430R Rapid Tracker system as a 2006 Porsche Cayenne roof rack.

Thule 430R Rapid Tracker car rack review by Adam D. of NJ. He is using the 430R Rapid Tracker system as a 2006 Porsche Cayenne roof rack.

This Thule 430R Rapid Tracker Foot Pack / Roof Rack Review by ‘Adam D. in NJ’. He is using the Thule 430R Rapid Tracker car rack system as a 2006 Porsche Cayenne roof rack for carrying a cargo luggage box.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

“Aftermarket roof racks that fit into the factory tracks of my Porsche Cayenne are hard to find. Porsche wants many $$$ for this (upwards of $1,500 with cross bars) and was a non-starter. The Thule 430R Rapid Tracker Car Rack was PERFECT! Easy to install, very secure, and looks good too! The feet went right into my 2006 Porsche Cayanne factory tracks. I mounted my Thule box on top and was able to stow away vacation stuff for 5 of us with no noise, movement, etc. The folks at ORS Racks Direct were great in helping me figure out the right package for my vehicle, for my wallet and for my taste in looks. I can’t say enough and would recommend ORS and the Thule system to anyone.”

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Yakima Forklift Review by ‘Tim’

by rackdawg on October 5, 2009

Yakima Forklift bike rack by 'Tim'. He attached the Fork Lift to his 2010 Pontiac Vibe factory rack cross bars.

Yakima Forklift bike rack by 'Tim'. He attached the Fork Lift to his 2010 Pontiac Vibe factory rack cross bars.

This Yakima Racks Forklift factory rack mounting bike rack review is by ‘Tim’. He is using the Yakima Forklift bike rack as a 2010 Pontiac Vibe bike roof rack.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

“The Yakima Fork Lift bike racks are perfect! I needed to get a rack that would work with my 2010 Pontiac Vibe factory crossbars that would actually allow me to lock the bike to the car without using a cable that would bounce around and scratch something. This was the ONLY bike rack that I could find that offered what I wanted. I put the ForkLift bike racks on “backwards” so I was also still able to open the hatch on the back of my 2010 Pontiac Vibe. It works great!”

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This Inno INA-450 kayak stacker review by 'ebennett'. The Inno INA450 kayak rack is being used as a 1999 Toyota Sienna roof rack for carrying 2 14' 6" Heritage SeaDart sit on top kayaks.

This Inno INA-450 kayak stacker review by 'ebennett'. The Inno INA450 kayak rack is being used as a 1999 Toyota Sienna roof rack for carrying 2 14' 6" Heritage SeaDart sit on top kayaks.

This Inno  INA-450 Kayak Stacker Review is by ‘ebennett’. Reviewer is using the Inno Racks INA450 kayak rack as a 1999 Toyota Sienna roof rack for carrying two 14′-6″ Heritage SeaDart sit on top kayaks.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

” I bought this specifically because I had an Inno base rack already, and I wanted a stacker type to leave room for my roof box. And I had to be comfortable driving on the Maine Tpke for 4 hours. This setup was rock solid at highway (65-70 that is) speeds. Love that it folds down when not in use.”

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Inno IN-SU Roof Rack Review by ‘ChuckM’

by rackdawg on September 19, 2009

This Inno Racks IN-SU roof rack review by 'ChuckM'. He is using the Inno INSU system as a 2006 Nissan Murano roof rack for hauling luggage and various stuff to his kids' colleges.

This Inno Racks IN-SU roof rack review by 'ChuckM'. He is using the Inno INSU system as a 2006 Nissan Murano roof rack for hauling luggage and various stuff to his kids' colleges.

This Inno Racks IN-SU Roof Rack Review is by ‘ChuckM’. He is using the Inno INSU car rack as a 2006 Nissan Murano roof rack for carrying luggage and all kinds of back-to-school stuff to his childrens’ various colleges.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

“I ordered an Inno rack system for my “naked roof” Murano. I needed it quickly and ORS Racks Direct customer service bent over backwards to get it shipped to me quickly and in time for my college road trip. The rack installation was easy, and it worked perfectly.”

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Yakima HoldUp Hitch Bike Rack Review by ‘Alan’

by rackdawg on September 19, 2009

Yakima HoldUp hitch mount bike rack review by 'Alan'. He is using the Yakima Hold Up as a 2000 Chevy Astro bike rack for carrying his electric bike.

Yakima HoldUp hitch mount bike rack review by 'Alan'. He is using the Yakima Hold Up as a 2000 Chevy Astro bike rack for carrying his electric bike.

This Yakima Racks HoldUp Hitch Mount Bike Rack Review is by ‘Alan’. He is using the Yakima Hold Up as a 2000 Chevrolet Astro bike rack for carrying an electric bike.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

I was concerned that this rack wouldn’t hold my bike which is over 50 lbs. I have been disappointed with other racks that hold the bike upright but have had no issues with the hold-up. It doesn’t seem to damage the bike anywhere. It does need a strap to prevent the handlebars from hitting the rear window as there is some side to side movement during stop and go. It seems to get easier and easier with time to load. I am very happy with this purchase and the service I received from ORS Racks Direct.

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Inno INA450 Kayak Rack Review by ‘Steve’

by rackdawg on September 19, 2009

Inno INA450 kayak rack review by 'Steve'. He is using the 460 Podium as a 2009 Chrysler Town & Country roof rack for carrying 2 sea kayaks.

Inno INA450 kayak rack review by 'Steve'. He is using the INA-450 as a 2009 Chrysler Town & Country roof rack for carrying 2 sea kayaks.

This Inno Racks INA450 Kayak Rack Review is by ‘Steve’. He is using the Inno INA-450 kayak rack as a 2009 Chrysler Town & Country roof rack for carrying 2 sea kayaks.

Overall Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5)

“The INA 450 is easy to install and it takes only minutes to load two ocean-going kayaks. The strapping mechanism is simple but extremely secure and holds the kayaks tightly to the rack. Loading and use is simple for my wife and me, both over 60 years old. This is an excellent and well-built product that works great with the factory installed roof racks.”

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Thule 460 Podium Review by ‘Frank’

by rackdawg on September 19, 2009

Thule 460 Podium Foot Pack / 460 Podium car rack review by 'Frank'.

Thule 460 Podium Foot Pack / 460 Podium car rack review by 'Frank'. He is using the 460 Podium as a 2008 Mazda 3 roof rack.

This Thule Racks 460 Podium Foot Pack / Roof Rack Review is by ‘Frank’. He is using the Thule 460 Podium system as a 2008 Mazda 3 roof rack for carrying a roof box to hold camping equipment and snowboards.

Overall Rating: 4 Stars (out of 5)

“This is an awesome, sturdy rack. It screws in the roof (mazda 3), and feels very strong. The only thing preventing me from giving 5 stars is the road noise, but that must be a normal thing with roof racks (except factory racks that are permanently mounted on the car). After the 1st installation, I can take this on and off in about 5 minutes, really nice. I highly recommend this rack.”

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