From the category archives:

Whispbar Racks

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Yakima Racks (parent company of Whispbar) recently produced and released this video featuring the Whispbar roof rack product line. The movie delivers a nice overview of this premium brand that is producing multi-purpose roof rack systems with quiet, whisper silent cross bars. The result is a solution that answers customers needs for car racks that don’t make noise, whistle or humming sounds while driving down the highway, as well as noticeably reducing wind drag and actually delivering fuel efficiency compared to the other major car rack brand competitors. Elegance and high-performance are achieved in the Whispbar Racks brand. Current complete base rack system model options include the Flush Bar, Through Bar, HD Bar and Rail Bar systems. With the exception of the Rail Bar roof rack (which mounts directly to vehicle factory installed side rails), all models attach to the vehicle via the proprietary SmartFoot Fitting Kits. Hundreds of Whispbar Smart Foot Fit Kits are available for matching the various automobile rooftop configurations that include bare naked roof, factory flush side rails, fixed rack attachment points (also called fix-points), rain gutters, roof tracks and more. Locks and keys are included with the base rack systems. Most Yakima roof mount gear carriers (as well as gear carriers from other major car rack companies) will also attach to the Whispbar crossbars.

view Whispbar Racks Overview Video

view all Whispbar roof racks

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Bike Rack for 2010 Subaru Forrester?

by Rack Magic Woman on May 2, 2012

Q: I’ve got a 2010 Subaru Forester with raised side rails. I’m looking to install some crossbars and a bike rack.  I read that  to deal with the factory crossbars, the Whispbar S53 is what I’d need – is that correct? Does that  require any other mount or locks?

I’m a little confused between the Frontloader and HighRoller.  Does the HighRoller require MightyMounts too but the FrontLoader connects directly to the Whispbar?

How many other locks or mounts would be needed for either rack and the crossbars mentioned?

The main difference between these two racks is what… a bit nicer touches on the HighRoller and 2-sided rear strap access?

Trying to keep this as simple as possible w/out spending a ton.

A: Yes, the Whispbar S53 Railbars will work with your 2010 Subaru Forester with factory side rails. This system comes with locks and keys.

The Yakima FrontLoader will mount directly to the Whispbars with no adapters needed. This rack requires two lock cores (one to lock the FrontLoader to the cross bars and the other to lock the bike to the FrontLoader).

The Yakima HighRoller would require the Yakima Universal MightyMounts to mount to the Whispbars. This rack requires one lock core to lock the bike to the HighRoller. Because  you would be using the MightyMounts to mount this to the Whispbars you would not be able to lock the HighRoller to the cross bars. But the good thing is that people tend to want to steal what is on the rack and not the rack itself.

The major difference is design aesthetics and that the FrontLoader fits almost all cross bars while the HighRoller only fits round and square bars.

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Image of a 2011 Audi A4 wagon roof rack for flush side rails, featuring the Whispbar S16 Through Bar system with K421 Fit Kit.

A premier Whispbar side rail roof rack for the 2011 Audi A4 Avant.

A sleek, stunning new vehicle deserves a sleek, stunning new rack system. As you can see from these customer installation photos, this 2011 Audi A4 Avant vehicle roof rack for factory flush side rails is subtle, stylized, and functional.  This Audi A4 roof rack features the Whispbar S16 Through Bar roof rack with Fit Kit 421. This Whispbar system mounts directly into the 2011 Audi A4 Avant flush factory side rails for a fully integrated look.  The Whispbar system is easy to install, aerodynamic, and noticeably quieter than traditional roof rack cross bars. The Whispbar Through Bar rack shown here even includes locks and keys to lock the feet onto the vehicle.  This rack system is ready to accommodate carriers for transporting gear, or stand on its own as a seamless accessory to an awesome vehicle.

For complete details, visit the Whispbar Roof Rack for Flush Factory Rails on 2011 Audi A4 Avant installation page.

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Image of a 2004 Audi A4 car rack cargo box, featuring the Whispbar Flush Bar roof rack with S5 950 flush bar smart foot and K377 fit kit, and the Thule 686BXT Atlantis 1600 cargo roof box.

An efficient and versatile roof rack and cargo box for a 2004 Audi A4 sedan.

Here are some excellent photos of a roof rack and rooftop luggage box for a 2004 Audi A4 sedan.  This Whispbar rack for the 2004 Audi A4 is quiet and efficient, and the Audi A4 Thule Atlantis 1600 cargo box is sleek and sturdy enough to carry all the gear you’ll need.  The Whispbar Flush Bar system featured here includes the S5-950 Flush Bar Smart Foot, and Fit Kit K377.  The Thule 686BXT Atlantis 1600 luggage box attaches directly to the Whispbar cross bars.  Locks are included with both the Whispbar base rack and the Atlantis cargo carrier.  Thanks to E.G. of Sussex, New Jersey, for sending these pictures!

For complete details, check out the 2004 Audi A4 Whispbar Rack and Luggage Carrier installation page.

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yakima racks whispbar racks fit tool

The latest exclusive online resource tool released by ORS Racks Direct is the all-new Yakima Racks-Whispbar Racks Fit Guide and Ordering Tool.

ORS Racks Direct, a leading vehicle rack system retailer and distributor for the United States and Canada, has just released the latest offering in its series of exclusive online resource tools. Live and now available for use by any customer visiting the web site is the interactive Whispbar Racks-Yakima Racks Fit Guide Tool, engineered by the developers at ORS Racks Direct. After simply selecting any specific automobile model, make and year, all compatible car rack, truck rack system and gear carrier options from Yakima Racks and Whispbar Racks are conveniently served up all on the same page for easy browsing. Additionally, the options are divided into major vehicle rack system categories such as ‘Mounting Direct to Factory Rack Crossbars’, ‘Complete General-Purpose Base Rack Systems’, ‘Trunk Mount Bicycle Carriers and Trailer Hitch Mount Bike Racks’, ‘Tow Trailers for Kayaks and Canoes’ and more. Any options can also be selected and added directly to the shopping cart for check out. To visit the Fit Guide and begin see below…

Whispbar Racks-Yakima Racks Fitting Tool

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Image of 2011 Subaru Legacy Whispbar roof rack ski rack, with Whispbar S7 1050 Flush Bar Smart Foot and Fit Kit K467, and Yakima Fat Cat 6 ski-snowboard rack.

 

An awesome ski roof rack for 2011 Subaru Legacy rooftops.

This stylish, quiet Whispbar roof rack for a 2011 Subaru Legacy will definitely turn heads in traffic. What’s more, with the added ski rack you can stick your skis on it and head to the mountain in a lot less time than it will take to wait in line for the lift.  This ski and snowboard car roof rack for the 2011 Subaru Legacy features the premium Whispbar S7 Flush Bar system with K467 fit hooks, and the Yakima Fat Cat 6 ski and snowboard rack, which attaches directly to the Whispbar cross bars.  The Whispbar rack and Yakima Fat Cat 6 even include locks and keys as an added peace of mind bonus.

For complete details, visit the 2011 Subaru Legacy Whispbar Rack Ski Rack installation page.

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Image of 2004 Audi S4 Avant car roof rack featuring the Whispbar S53 Rail Bar roof system for factory siderails.

 

Whispbar S53 Rail Bar Roof Rack for 2004 Audi S4 Avant siderails.

Quiet, efficient, and good-looking, the Whispbar system is a superb choice for any customer install.  These photos feature the Whispar roof rack on 2004 Audi S4 Avant Wagon raised rails.  The Whispbar S53 Rail Bar system mounts to the Audi S4 Avant factory siderails, for an easy install and a fully integrated look.

For complete information on the Whispbar roof rack for 2004 Audi S4 Avant, visit our installation page.

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Great close up of a 2012 Audi A4 Avant Wagon roof rack and bike rack system using the Whispbar Flush Bar System with FIt Kit K421 and two RockyMounts Euro Pitchfork bike racks with two Thule 593 Wheel-On bike front wheel carriers.

Nice looking rack system here! This 2012 Audi A4 Avant Wagon bike roof rack system is using the Whispbar Flush Bar base rack system with Fit Kit K421 for use with factory flush side rails and two RockyMounts Euro Pitchfork bike racks along with two Thule 593 Wheel-On front wheel forks. The Whispbar Flush Bar rack system looks factory clean and integrates nicely into the Audi A4 factory fixed mounting points and does not interfere with the A4′s moonroof.

More details and installation info for 2012 Audi A4 Avant bike rack system for two bikes.

 

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Yakima Racks Cargo Roof Box Rebate Offer

by rackdawg on February 1, 2012

Yakima Racks cargo luggage roof boxes kickback rebate program puts money back in your pocket when you buy a Yakima roof box.

Yakima Racks cargo luggage roof boxes kickback rebate program puts money back in your pocket when you buy a Yakima roof box.

Yakima Racks Cargo Roof Box Rebate Program (complete details)

Just launched is the all-new Yakima Racks roof boxes kickback rebate program that saves anyone purchasing a Yakima cargo box a lot of money. Right now if you buy any Yakima SkyBox Pro 21, SkyBox Pro 18 or SkyBox 21 roof box models you qualify for a rebate that puts $125 back in your pocket. Likewise, if purchasing any Yakima LoPro, SkyBox Pro 16, SkyBox 18 or SkyBox 16 roof box models you’ll save $100 through the rebate program. And finally, you’ll qualify for $75 back if you buy any Yakima SkyBox Pro 12, SkyBox 12 or RocketBox Pro cargo boxes. Simply purchase a Yakima gear box, print out the official rebate form, attach a copy of your purchase receipt or online invoice and mail to Yakima Racks – that’s all there is to it! This Yakima Racks KickBacks offer is valid 2/1/2012 – 3/22/2012. Rebate request form must be postmarked by 4/6/2012. Also, Yakima is offering the option to submit a rebate request directly online.

view all Yakima roof boxes

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Whispbar Permanent Mount Solution fro 2010 Scion XB?

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.

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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.

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Image of 2012 Mazda 5 roof rack with Whispbar Through Bar rack system & Yakima Sky Box 18 cargo box

Image of 2012 Mazda 5 roof rack with Whispbar Through Bar rack system & Yakima Sky Box 18 cargo box

This 2012 Mazda 5 roof rack system features the Whispbar Through Bar car rack complete system  which includes two S16 Through Bars, 4 SmartFoot Towers and K500 Fit Kit.  It is installed by mounting to the fixed rack attachment points on the 2012 Mazda 5 rooftop. The  8007181 Yakima Sky Box 18 cargo box attaches directly to the Whispbar base rack cross bars and the  back door of Mazda 5 can still open all the way without hitting the back of the SkyBox 18).

More 2012 Mazda 5 Whispbar Roof Rack info…

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Check out this cool video that shows how to mount Thule ski racks (including 92726 Universal Pull Top, 92725 Universal Flat Top, 92724 Universal Flat Top, order model 91725, 91724, 91726 etc.) flush to the Thule AeroBlade load bars, all Whispbar roof rack cross bars, all TracRac truck racks, all Votex brand OEM car racks, Thule 422XT Xsporter truck rack cross bars and so forth (these cross bars all share the same feature, a T-slot channel running the entire length of each bar). Using the Thule Ski Rack Flush Mount Adapter Kit the conversion procedure is a quick process that simply removes the Thule SpeedLink Clamp Mounts using a wrench on the 92726, 92725 and 92724 ski-snowboard rack models. Then insert the included T-bolts into the two holes on the underside of each cradle arm and loosely tighten an included wing knob to the end of the T-bolt. Then just slide each cradle arm onto the T-slot channel of each cross bar and then tighten down fully. That’s it! For the older model ski carriers such as the 91726, 91725, 91724, instead of using a wrench you use a drill to simply drill out the rivets that are holding the upper clamp arms onto the underside of each ski carrier cradle arm. Then you follow the same process of inserting the T-bolts into the holes you drilled to remove the rivets. The result of a flush mount ski rack is a much more lower profile, premium looking set up.

view Thule Ski Racks Flush Mount Conversion Kit videos

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2009-volvo-xc70-roof-rack-whispbar-through-bar-927

Image of 2009 Volvo XC70 Roof Rack with Whispbar Through Bars and K32 Fit Kit.

This  Volvo XC70 Car Rack features  the Whispbar Through Bar car rack system.  It  is made up of  two S17 Through Bars,  four SmartFoot Towers and a  K328 Fit Kit.  It is attached to the factory rails of the 2009 XC70. These Whispbar Rack load bars can be used with almost any roof mount gear carrier.

For more info on Whispbar Through Bars for a 2009 Volvo  XC70…

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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.

view all Whispbar Through Bar roof rack videos

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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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How To Select the Longest Whispbar Racks Crossbars

by rackdawg on September 24, 2011

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Being able to choose longer crossbars is very nice for when you plan to mount several gear carriers or transport very wide gear loads etc. With the Whispbar Racks Through Bar and HD Bar systems you have the option to select longer crossbars than what are the default recommendation (usually the shortest allowable length). The process for determining what crossbar length options you have available for your specific automobile is easy. Just open up the Whispbar Fit Kit installation instructions that you need for your specific auto, and refer to the installation measurements chart. You will want the ’1′ and ’2′ measurements for your vehicle under the ‘X’ heading — ’1′ is the measurement of the front cross bar and ’2′ is the measurement of the rear cross bar. Then refer to the Whispbar Racks Though Bar & HD Bar Chart that specifies the crossbar dimension ranges for each specific Through Bar and HD Bar models. If both the ’1′ and ’2′ measurements fall within the crossbar dimension range for a specific model then you can use that Through Bar or HD Bar model and length crossbars. You will see that you can most often select a model that has longer crossbars than the model that was the default recommendation in the Yakima-Whispbar Online Fit Guide tool.

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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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Image of Whispbar Roof Rack with S53 Rail Bar on 2008 Volvo XC90

Image of Whispbar Roof Rack with S53 Rail Bar Rack for 2008 Volvo XC90

This 2008 Volvo XC90 Roof Rack features the sleek design of the Whispbar S53 Rail Bar Roof Rack System. The roof rack mounts directly to the siderail bars of the XC90.  This Whispar Rack System comes with 4 rail bar smart feet, 2 cross bars and a 4-pack of Yakima locks ( Whispar is a division of Yakima racks).

Complete info on Whispar Roof Rack for 2008 Volo XC90…

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Thule AeroBlade Load Bars – ARB60 ARB53 ARB47 ARB43

by rackdawg on September 16, 2011

Image of the radical new ARB60 Thule AeroBlade load bars, the longest size crossbars (60 inches) in the new Thule Racks AeroBlade bars line up. Other sizes include the Thule ARB43 AeroBlade (43 inches), Thule ARB47 AeroBlade (47 inches), Thule ARB53 AeroBlade (53 inches).

Image of the radical new ARB60 Thule AeroBlade load bars, the longest size crossbars (60 inches) in the new Thule Racks AeroBlade bars line up. Other sizes include the Thule ARB43 AeroBlade (43 inches), Thule ARB47 AeroBlade (47 inches), Thule ARB53 AeroBlade (53 inches).

The Thule AeroBlade bars are Thule Racks winning entry into the realm of aerofoil shape crossbars that eliminate all roof rack wind noise, humming and whistling.

The Thule AeroBlade bars are Thule Racks winning entry into the realm of aerofoil shape crossbars that eliminate all roof rack wind noise, humming and whistling.

All Thule AeroBlade load bars fit the entire line-up of Thule Rapid Foot Pack roof rack systems, including 450R Rapid CrossRoad, 480R Rapid Traverse, 460R Rapid Podium, 400XTR Rapid Aero and 430R Rapid Tracker.

All Thule AeroBlade load bars fit the entire line-up of Thule Rapid Foot Pack roof rack systems, including 450R Rapid CrossRoad, 480R Rapid Traverse, 460R Rapid Podium, 400XTR Rapid Aero and 430R Rapid Tracker.

Not to be outdone by Yakima’s recent release of the Whispbar Racks series of  ‘whisper quiet’ roof rack systems using wind-tunnel tested aerofoil shape crossbars, Thule Racks has just thrown their hat in the ring with the launch of the awesome Thule AeroBlade load bars. Available in four different sizes – Thule ARB60 AeroBlade load bars (60″ size), Thule ARB53 AeroBlade load bars (53″ size), Thule ARB47 AeroBlade load bars (47″ size) and Thule ARB43 AeroBlade load bars (43″ size) – these sizes are exactly the same lengths as the Thule Rapid Aero load bars. There is a very good reason for this, as Thule thoughfully designed the AeroBlades to replace the Rapid Aeros (which have been retired from production) and work on all the same Thule Rapid Foot Pack roof rack systems that the Rapid Aero crossbars worked on – including the 480R Rapid Traverse Foot Pack, 460R Rapid Podium Foot Pack, 450R Rapid CrossRoad Foot Pack, 430R Rapid Tracker Foot Pack and 400XTR Rapid Aero Foot Pack. This makes it very easy and economical for those that currently own a car rack system using the Rapid Aero cross bars to upgrade to the vastly superior AeroBlade load bars, as all that is required is to buy a pair of Aero Blade bars. They attach right to the Rapid Foot Packs for a seamless transition over to the incredible benefits and features of the AeroBlades. The result of laborious, rigorous testing under all conditions and wind-tunnel analytics, the Thule AeroBlade load bars deliver a sleek, fast aerofoil shape that eliminates the possibility of roof rack noise, humming or whistling. Furthermore, the superior aerodynamics actually work to noticeably reduce fuel costs compared to all other crossbars available on the market today. Nor is there ever a need to spend additional money to buy a wind fairing accessory that is normally used to try and lessen noise that often occurs with all other cross bars (though a fairing will never eliminate noise entirely). With technological advancements that include WindDiffuser Technology, SwingBlade Technology, BoxBeam Technology SmartSlide Technology and more (check out this thorough page resource of Thule AeroBlade load bars details and information), it is becoming more and more difficult to find valid reasons to use regular crossbars such as square and round bars. Especially since over the long run, the more expensive aerodynamic AeroBlades will actually pay for themselves over the long haul.

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Whispbar Racks Featured Retailer Profile

by rackdawg on September 13, 2011

Image of the Whispbar Racks HD Bar roof rack system, one of the many Whispbar products available at ORS Racks Direct. Whispbar Racks recently featured this nationwide dealer with a Whispbar Featured Retailer Profile.
Image of the Whispbar Racks HD Bar roof rack system, one of the many Whispbar products available at ORS Racks Direct. Whispbar Racks recently featured this nationwide dealer with a Whispbar Featured Retailer Profile.

Whispbar Retailer Profile: ORS Racks Direct

In the digital “inter-scape” world of retail, the game is changing for the cargo management category! It’s no longer Pepsi vs. Coke in the same sense that it has been Yakima Racks vs. Thule Racks – Whispbar is here to set a different tone – essentially shaking things up; making it a different category. Whispbar is sleek, aero, and most of all quiet and consumers need to know that. Who is a retailer who is doing this very well? Enter, Catherine Ricklefs and David Ricklefs from ORS Racks Direct.

We recently had the opportunity to meet up with these two (husband and wife team) and find out what they are doing to make sure consumers hear the difference…no pun intended here…of Whispbar. I asked David and Catherine what it takes to step into the lead from a retailer’s perspective for getting a new product into the hands of the consumers it speaks to.

Dana (Whispbar Racks): David, we have been receiving a lot of buzz from your website blog and Twitter tweets through our social monitoring efforts and ORS has been LOUD!!! How are you keeping up? Running the business and keeping your employees happy – not to mention raising a newborn – congratulations by the way from us at Yakima, takes a serious time commitment. But seriously, how are you keeping the momentum rolling?

David Ricklefs (ORS): Dana, it’s simple really. It’s a tremendous amount of work on my behalf – really its manual labor – I am constantly monitoring the buzz that comes across all our social channels. I am really “listening” and responding as quickly as possible – that takes work and plenty of it.

Dana (Whispbar Racks): I can only imagine the time you spend on this, for we have a couple people at Yakima monitoring our social and its hard work. What drove you to attack the product introduction as you have through the social marketing aspect?

David Ricklefs (ORS): I knew what Whispbar was bringing to the table after you hosted your retailers in Portland back in April to unveil the product and the retail program to support it. I knew that I needed to be first in the digital game to capitalize on sales, so I took the “playbook” and ran with it. In your online partner line-up, ORS is really a small shop, but it has a big punch and I knew that I could capture a large audience if I could have a louder voice. I knew that by leveraging our website blog, Facebook and Twitter accounts I could not only communicate to our existing followers that we were bringing a new product – something that was game changing – no longer a Pepsi vs. Coke choice. Whispbar is more fuel efficient, quieter, and sleeker – sexier too! I needed to voice that and that’s exactly what I have been doing.

Dana (Whispbar Racks): That’s awesome David! Have you been receiving some positive upswing in demand for Whispbar in the past few months that it’s been in the market?

David Ricklefs (ORS): Yes, in fact, we have generated some tremendous interest in the products and are taking orders now. Our sales team is bought into the product and its benefits, so we are converting that “untapped” demand to sales through them.

Dana (Whispbar Racks): This is fantastic! We really appreciate your business and will find every opportunity we can to support you and the other online partners in the coming months and into 2012 – which will be a very exciting year for all!

visit the ORS Racks Direct selection of Whispbar Racks

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Yakima Whispbar Roof Racks Now Available

by rackdawg on July 18, 2011

Picture of the Yakima Whispbar Flush Bar roof rack system, now available from select Yakima Racks dealers across the United States and Canada.

Picture of the Yakima Whispbar Flush Bar roof rack system, now available from select Yakima Racks dealers across the United States and Canada.

Picture of the Yakima Whispbar Rail Bar roof rack system, now available from select Yakima Racks dealers across the United States and Canada.

Picture of the Yakima Whispbar Rail Bar roof rack system, now available from select Yakima Racks dealers across the United States and Canada.

Just announced by Yakima Racks is the launch of an entire new product line called Whispbar Roof Racks, a premium, up-scale line of complete multi-purpose base rack systems that features the quietest and sleekest cross bars in the industry. Though collaboration with Rolls Royce engineering laboraties and extensive wind tunnel testing, the aerofoil shaped cross bars produce no wind noise, whistling or humming that is a common headache with other roof rack models from competitors. There’s no need to spend extra money for a rack fairing to try and eliminate nose beacuse there’s no noise in the first place! Whisper quiet is how Yakima Racks describes them. The Whispbar Racks model options include the Whispbar Flush Bar system, Whispbar Through Bar system, Whispbar HD Bar system and the Whispbar Rail Bar system. All but the Rail Bar (which attaches directly to any factory side rails directly) use the patented SmartFoot in combination with any of several different Base Fitting Kits for a universal, compatible fit no matter what type of roof mounting style a specific vehicle requires. The result is a very cost effective solution when you need to transfer the car rack over to another vehicle. All you need to buy is a new Whispbar Fit Kit. Also, locks are included free with the roof racks.

PRWeb: New Yakima Racks Product Line Called Whispbar Roof Racks Now Available

PRLeap: Whispbar Racks, From the Yakima Rack Company, Released to Select Dealers

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Image of the various Whispbar Roof Racks Base Fitting Kit Clips. Fit Kits are for use with patented universal Whispbar SmartFoot & Cross Bars on vehicles with bare roofs, factory installed fixed-points, side rails, roof tracks, raingutters and more. Whispbar Racks is owned by the Yakima Rack Company.

Image of the various Whispbar Roof Racks Base Fitting Kit Clips. Fit Kits are for use with patented universal Whispbar SmartFoot & Cross Bars on vehicles with bare roofs, factory installed fixed-points, side rails, roof tracks, raingutters and more. Whispbar Racks is owned by the Yakima Rack Company.

An important aspect of the Yakima owned Whispar roof rack systems is the modular component design that allows for a cost-effective way to transfer the same roof rack over to a new vehicle. In most cases all that is needed is a different set of Whispbar Fit Kit attachments that connect to the base of the patented universal SmartFoot on any of the Whispbar Racks general-purpose base rack systems (Flush Bar, Through Bar, HD Bar etc.). Using the correct specific Whispbar Base Fitting Kit with the SmartFoot will allow the system to mount to a vehicle with a roof mounting requirement that the specific Fit Kit is designed for, such as automobiles with completely bare roofs, factory installed fixed-points, factory side rails, roof tracks, raingutters, even custom permanent roof rack mount applications. There are many different models of Whispbar Fit Kits available to match virtually all specific vehicle year, make and models. Please note that the Rail Bar factory side rails car rack does not require Fit Kit attachments. It will transfer directly over to another vehicle with factory side rails.

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Picture of the Whispbar Rail Bar roof rack system, the Whispar Racks product offering from Yakima (Yakima Racks owns Whispbar) for mounting to cars and pickup trucks with factory side rails.

Picture of the Whispbar Rail Bar roof rack system, the Whispar Racks product offering from Yakima (Yakima Racks owns Whispbar) for mounting to cars and pickup trucks with factory side rails.

Now available at select Yakima Racks dealers in Canada and the United States is the latest product offering in the Whispbar Racks general-purpose base rack systems line-up, the Whispbar Rail Bar roof rack for factory side rails. Yakima owns Whispbar, the high-end, premium styled roof racks for all types of vehicle roof mount applications. The Rail Bar model shares many of the same features as the Whisbar Through Bar, Flush Bar and HD Bar models such as the aerofoil shaped cross bars that effectively reduce wind drag to such a minimum that no rack whistling, humming or other noises are heard from the roof rack when driving down the highway. Better fuel economy is also achieved in comparison to all other leading manufacturers with similar products for factory side rails. Most other roof racks have a tendency to produce some noise, and many owners are forced to spend extra money to buy a wind fairing to try and eliminate the noise, whistling or humming. But with Whispar roof racks this isn’t necessary. They are whisper quiet by design! The Rail Bar also includes Yakima locks and keys to lock the roofrack to the vehicle and prevent anyone from stealing it. Most roof mount gear carriers, whether from Whispbar, Yakima, Thule, Inno, SportRack, Malone, RockyMounts etc., will attach directly to the cross bars with no additional adapters necessary. Where the Rail Bar differs from the ThroughBar, FlushBar and HD Bar systems is the SmartFoot attaches directly to the side rails without the need for a Base Fit Kit. Thus the Rail Bar system costs less than the other options.

Learn about Whispbar Racks | View all Whispbar Roof Racks

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Picture of the Whispbar Racks HD Bar combination sport-work rack, the ideal choice for any professional applications, commercial work use as well as playing and having fun. Whispbar is owned by the Yakima Rack Company.

Picture of the Whispbar Racks HD Bar combination sport-work rack, the ideal choice for any professional applications, commercial work use as well as playing and having fun. Whispbar is owned by the Yakima Rack Company.

Now available at select Yakima Racks dealers thoughout the United States and Canada is the all-new Whispbar HD Bar roof rack system, the ultimate multi-purpose base rack system for anyone seeking to combine work applications with sport and having fun. Whispbar Racks is owned by Yakima, and the product line is a premium high-end option for those seeking the ultimate blend of aesthetics, universal ease of use, durability and whisper quiet cross bars that produce no noise, whistling, humming etc. The cross bars also effectively reduce wind drag and deliver better fuel economy than any other roof rack options on the market today. The Whispbar HD Bar system uses the same SmartFoot engineering as other Whispar rack models. The Smart Foot is a proprietary Yakima innovation that allows the SmartFoot to combine with any number of different Base Fit Kit options to mount to any vehicle rooftop style. Whether you need a roof rack that mounts to a completely naked rooftop, factory side rails (both flush and raised types), fixed-points, roof tracks, raingutters or even a custom permanent rack mounting application, the Whispbar HD Bar SmartFoot and appropriate Base Fit Kit will do the job. The HD Bar roof rack differs from the other Whispbar options (FlushBar, ThroughBar and Rail Bar) because the cross bars are more heavy duty and can handle up to 220 lbs of weight while the crossbars on the Flush Bar, Through Bar and RailBar models hold up to 165 lbs of weight. The HD Bars also have a uni strut T-slot running the length of them to allow for attaching many different work rack accessories such as tie-downs, load stops, ladder holders and ladder rollers, ratcheting cargo buckles, pipe and conduit holders and more. The HD Bars also have integrated tie-down points to secure any gear load. Also has rubber stripping running down the bars to protect the gear load and the crossbars themselves. Also serves to prevent the load from shifting laterally when in transit. 

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Whispbar ThroughBar Roof Rack by Yakima Racks

by rackdawg on July 9, 2011

Image of the Yakima Racks owned 80050701 Whispbar ThroughBar roof rack system that universally fits all styles of vehicles including pickup truck, van and car rooftops with bare naked roofs, rain gutters, factory side rails, fixed-points, roof tracks and more.

Image of the Yakima Racks owned 80050701 Whispbar ThroughBar roof rack system that universally fits all styles of vehicles including pickup truck, van and car rooftops with bare naked roofs, rain gutters, factory side rails, fixed-points, roof tracks and more.

Already reviewed and discussed in a previous post, the Whispbar FlushBar roof rack system has a closely related cousin called the Whispbar ThroughBar roof rack system. It includes the same core features as the Flush Bar model, including universal Whispbar SmartFoot technology that combines with any of the different Base Fit Kits for mounting to automobiles with all styles of rooftop configurations such as totally bare roof tops, factory side rails (both raised and flush side rail styles), fixed-points (also called fixed rack attachment points), roof tracks and more. Even serves as the ideal choice for applications that require mounting a custom, permanent roof rack. Where the Whispbar Through Bar car rack differs from the the Flush Bar model is that on the Though Bar model the cross bars are longer than on the Flush Bar version and extend further out beyond each SmartFoot. This provides more crossbar space for those users that need additional crossbar space to attach multiple gear carriers for transporting lots of gear and equipment. The design of the Whispbar cross bars are the same on the ThroughBar as on the FlushBar, totally whisper quiet and do not create any roof rack noise, whistling or humming that is commonly found on other manufacturers’ roof rack systems. Includes locks and keys. Besides Whispbar gear carriers, the Through Bar roof rack universally accepts virtually all roof mount gear carriers from other makers such as Thule, Inno, SportRack, RockyMounts, Malone and more.

learn more about Whispbar Racks

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Image of the Whispbar Flush Bar multi-purpose roof rack system (owned by Yakima Racks) and universally fits vehicles with all types of rooftop mounting designs including completely bare rooftops, fixed-points (also called fixed rack attachment points), factory side rails, roof tracks, raingutters and more.

Image of the Whispbar Flush Bar multi-purpose roof rack system (owned by Yakima Racks) and universally fits vehicles with all types of rooftop mounting designs including completely bare rooftops, fixed-points (also called fixed rack attachment points), factory side rails, roof tracks, raingutters and more.

Huge news from Yakima Racks headquarters, who has just launched the all-new series of Whispbar Racks, a premium product line from Yakima that completely turns the general purpose roof rack category on its head. The result of extensive engineering, wind tunnel testing, research and design, this series of roof racks delivers a host of features never before found on any product from any manufacturer. Included in the new product line is the Whispbar FlushBar roof rack, Whispbar ThroughBar rack, Whispbar HD Bar rack and Whispbar Rail Bar rack. Each system will be covered in more detail with subsequent postings, however for this post the Flush Bar system is the focus. The core of the roof rack system is the SmartFoot, an incredibly advanced development that combines with any of several different Base Fitting Kits to fit the entire range of vehicle roof styles that include totally bare roof tops, fixed-points, factory side rails, roof tracks, rain gutters, even applications that require a custom permanent install. The elegant system also makes it very cost effective to transfer the Whispbar FlushBar roof rack to any other vehicle if necessary, as all that is needed is to purchase a new Base Fitting Kit. The included crossbars insert into each SmartFoot and do not extend out further, this results in a very clean, finished and flush look (hence the name FlushBar). There are several lengths of FlushBar cross bars available to fit every vehicle rooftop. The quality of the components is unrivaled and the styling results in a sleek, aerodynamic and low-profile look. The aerofoil cross bars are the quietest in the industry so you can rest assured you won’t be annoyed by roof rack noise or humming while traveling down the highway. Better fuel efficiency is also achieved. The crossbars also allow virtually all roof mount gear carriers from any manufacturer to attach directly to the bars. Locks also included with the system. Simply put, by combining the Whispbar FlushBar SmartFoot with the appropriate Base Fitting Kit, this system will install on virtually any automobile roof rack configuration.

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RockyMounts Euro PitchFork Bike Rack

by rackdawg on May 18, 2011

Picture of the all-new Rocky Mounts Euro PitchFork bicycle carrier, a fork mounted roof bike rack for use on votex rack cross bars - OEM roof racks for Audi, BMW, Porsche, Mini Cooper, VW, Volvo etc.,  Whispbar roof racks, Thule Rapid Aero load bars, Thule Xsporter truck rack etc.

Picture of the all-new Rocky Mounts Euro PitchFork bicycle carrier, a fork mounted roof bike rack for use on votex rack cross bars - OEM roof racks for Audi, BMW, Porsche, Mini Cooper, VW, Volvo etc., Whispbar roof racks, Thule Rapid Aero load bars, Thule Xsporter truck rack etc.

Following on the heels of the wildly-popular Rocky Mounts Pitchfork bike rack is the uber-cool RockyMounts Euro PitchFork bike rack. While the standard PitchFork model fits any roof rack square and round cross bars from Thule Racks, Inno Racks, Yakima Racks etc., it falls short when it comes to working with any oval, aerodynamic style cross bars with t-slot channels such as votex roof rack cross bars, which are available as OEM roof racks on Audi, BMW, Porsche, Mini Cooper, Volkswagen, Volvo etc., Whispbar roof rack crossbars, Thule Rapid Aero load bars, Thule Xsporter truck rack and more. The Rocky Mounts Euro Pitch Fork bicycle carrier has all the same premium features included on the normal RockyMount PitchFork, as well as the specific installation hardware for the slotted channel cross bars. And as with all other RockyMount bike rack products, this carrier delivers all the same high-end features, design styling and ease of use found on Yakima and Thule roof bike racks yet is available at a cheaper price. Works with most styles of bicycles, from road to mountain and anything in-between. Optionally locks the bicycle to the rack and the bike rack itself to the roof rack (RockyMounts locks sold separately).

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