Posts tagged as:

roof rack

Whispbar Roof Racks Through Bar, Flush Bar, HD Bar Review Comparison & Video

by rackdawg on September 23, 2011

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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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view Thule AeroBlade load bars video

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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Thule 450R Rapid CrossRoad Roof Rack w/ AeroBlade Load Bars

by rackdawg on September 21, 2011

Picture of the awesome new Thule Racks 450R Rapid CrossRoad roof rack system that now includes the 100% whisper quiet Thule AeroBlade cross bars

Picture of the awesome new Thule Racks 450R Rapid CrossRoad roof rack system that now includes the 100% whisper quiet Thule AeroBlade cross bars

Just released to Thule Rack dealers in Canada and the United States is the red hot new Thule 450R Rapid CrossRoad roof rack AeroBlade load bars system that features the incredible, totally silent Thule AeroBlade load bars. The Thule 450R Rapid CrossRoad car rack system is designed for use on vehicles with factory installed raised side rails (the two bars that run parallel to each other from the front to back of the rooftop on the driver-side and passenger-side). It includes the following components: Thule 450R Rapid CrossRoad Foot Pack and pair of Thule Aero Blade cross bars. Best of all, the 4 lengths of AeroBlade load bars are exactly the same as the older model Rapid Aero load bars so they easily replace the Rapid Aero crossbars on any current Thule 450R Rapid CrossRoad roofrack system without having to also spend the extra money to also replace the 450R Foot Pack. The four Thule AeroBlade cross bar sizes are Thule AeroBlade ARB43 load bars at 43 inches in length, Thule AeroBlade ARB47 load bars at 47 inches in length, Thule AeroBlade ARB53 load bars at 53 inches in length and Thule AeroBlade ARB60 load bars at 60 inches in length. The AeroBlades generate no rack noise, humming or whistling for a totally peaceful and quiet ride while driving, making the AeroBlades superior to every other all-purpose base rack cross rails available.

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Thule 480R Rapid Traverse Roof Rack w/ AeroBlade Load Bars

by rackdawg on September 20, 2011

Picture of the stunning new Thule Racks 480R Rapid Traverse roof rack system that now includes the totally silent Thule AeroBlade load bars.

Picture of the stunning new Thule Racks 480R Rapid Traverse roof rack system that now includes the totally silent Thule AeroBlade load bars.

Now available at Thule Racks dealers throughout the United States and Canada is the all-new Thule 480R Rapid Traverse roof rack AeroBlade load bars system featuring the stunning, 100% silent Thule AeroBlade load bars. The Thule Racks 480R Rapid Traverse car rack system is designed for use on vehicles with totally bare rooftops (no factory rack, side rails, roof tracks or anything). It includes the following components: Thule 480R Rapid Traverse Foot Pack, set of Thule Traverse Fit Kit clips (specific to your particular car, van or pickup truck year / make / model) and pair of Thule AeroBlade load bars. Best of all, the four sizes of AeroBlades are exactly the same as the older model Rapid Aero load bars so they can conveniently replace the Rapid Aero bars on any current Thule 480 Rapid Traverse roof rack system without having to replace any of the other components. The four Thule AeroBlade cross bar sizes are Thule ARB43 AeroBlade load bars at 43 inches in length, Thule ARB47 AeroBlade load bars at 47 inches in length, Thule ARB53 AeroBlade load bars at 53 inches in length and Thule ARB60 AeroBlade load bars at 60 inches in length. Superior to all other multi-purpose base rack cross bars on the market today, the Aero Blade cross rails generate no rack noise, hum or whistling for a totally quiet ride when driving your car.

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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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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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Whispbar Fit Kits for SmartFoot & Cross Bars Roof Racks

by rackdawg on July 15, 2011

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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Whispbar Rail Bar Factory Side Rails Mount Roof Rack

by rackdawg on July 13, 2011

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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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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Whispbar FlushBar Roof Rack System (by Yakima)

by rackdawg on July 5, 2011

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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Yakima RailGrab Jeep Wrangler Roll Bars Roof Rack Kit

by rackdawg on June 29, 2011

Image of the all-new Yakima Racks RailGrab Jeep Roll Bars Roof Rack Kit for mounting the roll bars on Jeep Wrangler Soft Top models.

Image of the all-new Yakima Racks RailGrab Jeep Roll Bars Roof Rack Kit for mounting the roll bars on Jeep Wrangler Soft Top models.

Superb news for owners of Jeep Wrangler Soft Top models. Yakima Racks now offers a roof rack cross rails system that mounts directly to the roll bars on the Jeep Wrangler. Called the Yakima RailGrab Jeep Roll Bars Roof Rack Kit, it includes a set of four Yakima RailGrab Towers and four large-size Claws as well as a pair of 58″ crossbars with end caps. The RailGrab Towers and large Claws quickly tighten down firmly on the Jeep Wrangler Soft Top roll bars using just an allen wrench, a far superior solution compared to options that require permanently installing a roof rack to the Jeep Wrangler roll bars. The Yakima RailGrab system also removes easily when not needed. And the included 58 inch Yakima round cross bars provide plenty of room for attaching all kinds of gear carrier configurations for transporting gear and equipment on Jeep adventures. The roof rack can easily lock to the Jeep roll bars using a 4 pack of Yakima locks and keys. As an added bonus, besides the large size RailGrab Claws, the system does also include all the other sizes of Claws to allow the rack to also install on any cars with factory side rails.

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Inno IN-AR Roof Rack for Factory Side Rails and Inno INAR Stays

by rackdawg on June 17, 2011

Picture of the all-new Inno Racks IN-AR roof rack crossbars system for vehicles with factory side rails. An inexpensive, cheap car rack option for virtually any car, van, SUV, pickup truck and minvan with siderails only and needs the cross bars for connecting gear carriers to transport equipment.

Picture of the all-new Inno Racks IN-AR roof rack crossbars system for vehicles with factory side rails. An inexpensive, cheap car rack option for virtually any car, van, SUV, pickup truck and minivan with siderails only and needs the cross bars for connecting gear carriers to transport equipment.

Photo of the Inno IN-AR Stays, packaged as a set of four Stays (also known as Towers) and ideal for any Inno Racks car rack owners that already have crossbars and need to transfer their current Inno roof rack system over to a vehicle with raised factory side rails.

Photo of the Inno IN-AR Stays, packaged as a set of four INAR Stays (also known as Towers) and ideal for any Inno Racks car rack owners that already have crossbars and need to transfer their current Inno roof rack system over to a vehicle with raised factory side rails.

Now available as an alternative to the premium Inno Racks IN-FR roofrack systems for vehicles with side rails is the Inno IN-AR factory side rails roof rack, a complete system that manages to offer a suite of high-end features yet still remain in the cheap roof racks category. The Inno IN-AR car rack cross bars general-purpose system combines super budget friendly pricing with maximum strength durability, sleek, modern good looks and universal compatibility with virtually all styles of factory rack side rails. The integrated clamps on each INAR Stay bite down and securely grip any style of side rails, even fat over-sized models. Also includes a set of 4 Inno locks and keys to lock the car rack to the vehicle. Also available are the set of 4 Inno IN-AR Stays only. This is a great option for any Inno Racks owners that already have Inno crossbars and just need the IN-AR Stays to transfer a current Inno Racks system over to a vehicle with side rails.

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Thule 3109 Podium Fit Kit for Honda Element

by rackdawg on March 19, 2011

Now available from Thule Racks is the 3109 Podium Fit Kit, a component for installing a Honda Element roof rack using the Thule 460 Podium Foot Pack and Thule 460R Rapid Podium Foot Pack.

Now available from Thule Racks is the 3109 Podium Fit Kit, a component for installing a Honda Element roof rack using the Thule 460 Podium Foot Pack and Thule 460R Rapid Podium Foot Pack.

Thule Racks has just released the Thule 3109 Podium Fit Kit, a new option for building a Honda Element roof rack system using the Thule 460 Podium Foot Pack (and square load bars) and the Thule 460R Rapid Podium Foot Pack (and Rapid Aero load bars). The 3109 Fit Kit takes advantage of the fixed-points located under the plastic covers on the Honda Element roof top. The result is a very clean, low-profile and integrated looking multi-purpose base rack set up. The Honda Element was one of the first vehicles to offer  fixed-rack attachment points, and now the all-new Thule 3109 Podium Fit Kit delivers the ability to use the 460 Podium and 460R Rapid Podium car racks on the Honda Element fixed-points, great news because the 460 Podium and 460R Rapid Podium racks are designed specifically for fixed-rack attachment points.

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Inno IN-SU Roof Rack Video Review by ORS Racks Direct

by rackdawg on June 14, 2010

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Inno IN-SU roof rack (black)

Inno IN-SU roof rack (silver)

The Inno IN-SU roof rack video from ORS Racks Direct demonstrates the easy installation process and explains all the features of this multi-purpose base rack system for cars, minivans and pickup truck cabs that have nothing on the roof currently. With the INSU system mounted, it is then possible to attach any Inno gear carriers (and virtually all gear carriers from other car rack companies) directly to the pair of crossbars.  The complete system includes a set of Inno Stays, set of Inno K Fit Hooks (specific to your vehicle year, make and model) and pair of cross bars. Also includes a set of Inno locks and keys to lock the roof rack to the vehicle (similar systems from other leading manufacturers require you to purchase locks as an additional expense). Available in both silver and black color options.

Inno IN-SU video

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Malone Universal Cross Rails Roof Rack Video Review by ORS Racks Direct

by rackdawg on June 12, 2010

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Malone Universal Cross Bars roof rack

If you’ve tightened the belt on spending these days and are frantically searching for a roof rack system that attaches to vehicle factory raised side rails, providing the cross bars needed for mounting gear carriers to carry your gear like surfboards, stand up paddleboard SUP, bikes, kayaks, canoe, skis and snowboards, luggage etc., you won’t want to waste any time checking out this new ORS Racks Direct video that showcases the Malone Auto Racks Universal Cross Rail roof rack system. The video covers all the features of this product, as well as providing a demonstration of how to install it onto a vehicle with factory raised side rails (the model vehicle in the video is a 2008 Volvo XC90). Mounts to most any standard raised factory side rails, however will not work on super fat diameter side rails such as those found on Nissan XTerra etc. This roof rack is available at a fraction of the cost of other much more expensive options from other leading car rack manufacturers (and the Malone Universal Cross Rails roof rack even includes a set of locks & keys to lock the car rack to the vehicle). FYI, for those that do not know, side rails are the pair of factory bars that run from the front to back of the roof top on the drivers side and passengers side.

Malone Universal Cross Rail System video

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Yakima Q Towers Roof Rack Video Review by ORS Racks Direct

by rackdawg on June 12, 2010

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Yakima Q Towers roof rack

If your car or pickup truck cab has nothing on the roof top currently, such as no factory rack or factory side rails, no raingutters / drip rails, no roof tracks, no fixed attachment points etc., most likely your vehicle will require the Yakima Q Towers roof rack system. This multi-purpose base rack system provides the foundation that will then allow for the attachment of any roof mount gear carrriers for transporting, ski & snowboards, bikes, kayaks, canoe, surfboards, stand up paddle boards, luggage and more. Included with the Yakima Q Towers roof rack system are a set of four Yakima Q Towers, two pairs of Yakima Q Clips and a pair of Yakima round cross bars. You will attach the gear carriers to the Q Tower cross bars. This Yakima Q Towers video from ORS Racks Direct explains and demonstrates the features of this system, how to install the Yakima Q Towers and more. Very quick to install with easy-to-follow instructions included, the Q Towers are the leading roof rack base system for vehicles with nothing on the roof top currently. Accessory options such as a 4-pack of Yakima locks & keys (to lock the roof rack to the vehicle) and wind fairing (for design styling and elimination of any possible rack noise or ‘whistling’) are highly recommended.

Yakima Q Towers video

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’05 Toyota Corolla Kayak Rack for Roof

by Rack James on June 10, 2010

2005 Toyota Corolla roof kayak rack using the Yakima Q-Towers roof rack (with Yakima Q31 and Q99 Q-Clips), wind fairing and Yakima Hullraiser J-style kayak rack.

Install photo of a 2005 Toyota Corolla kayak rack using the Yakima Q-Tower Base Rack (Yakima Q-Towers, Yakima Q31 and Q99 Q-Clips, and Yakima 48" round bars) with Yakima 44" wind fairing and Yakima Hullraiser J-style kayak rack.

Ok all you sit-on-top kayak paddlers, here’s a great way to carry your boat.  There are of course, many other options, but this 2005 Toyota Corolla roof rack kayak carrier system is using the Yakima Q-Tower roof rack (includes set of Yakima Q Towers, pair of Yakima Q31 clips and pair of Yakima Q99 clips and also a pair of cross bars) as its base rack which is the foundation of a rooftop kayak rack for a naked roof.  It is decked out with a Yakima 44″ wind fairing, or wind deflector, or “flair” as one person calls it, and a set of Yakima SKS 4 locks to prevent theft.  Holding the sit-on-top kayak is the Yakima HullRaiser kayak rack.  This person knows how to roll, but I’m not sure how I feel about the unorthodox method used for strapping the boat down.  I might suggest using the included Yakima Heavy Duty Load Straps for the body of the kayak and the included Yakima Ratcheting Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps for the bow and stern.  If this is how you plan of strapping your boat down, then I would say drive really, really slow. 

Complete details for this 2005 Toyota Corolla 4-Door Sedan kayak roof rack install.

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Thule 480R Rapid Traverse Roof Rack Video Review by ORS Racks Direct

by rackdawg on May 31, 2010

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Thule 480R Rapid Traverse roof rack

Check out this  Thule 480R Rapid Traverse roof rack video from the ORS Racks Direct crew. An excellent overall review and demonstration of the features of this revolutionary new multi-purpose base rack system for any vehicles with nothing on the rooftop currently (i.e. no factory rack or factory side rails, no raingutters / drip rails, no roof tracks, no fixed attachment points etc.) A dramatic improvement over the previous Thule 400XTR Rapid Aero system both in ease if installation and superior design styling. The Thule 480R Rapid Traverse delivers a more premium look over the standard Thule 480 Traverse roof rack that uses the regular square Thule cross bars. Instead, the Thule 480R Rapid Traverse system uses the Thule Rapid Aero load bars for a more sleek, aerodynamic and integrated look. Accessory options such as pack of Thule locks (to lock the roof rack to the vehicle) and wind fairing (for design styling and elimination of any possible rack noise or ‘whistling’) are highly recommended.

Thule 480R Rapid Traverse video

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Thule 480 Traverse Roof Rack Video Review by ORS Racks Direct

by rackdawg on May 29, 2010

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Thule 480 Traverse roof rack system

The Thule 480 Traverse roof rack video from ORS Racks Direct offers an excellent demonstration of this multi-purpose base rack system that fits virtually all cars, vans and pickup trucks that currently have nothing on the roof top (no factory rack or factory side rails, no raingutters, no roof tracks, fix-point attachments etc.) The result of years of extensive design and engineering, the Thule 480 Traverse system is a vast improvement over the previous Thule 400XT Aero roofrack system. Uses half the parts of the 400XT Aero and installs in a fraction of the time. Includes Thule 480 Traverse Foot Pack, Traverse Fit Kit clips (many Fit Kits available, each designed to custom fit specific vehicles) and pair of load bars (varying load bar lengths available). Features sleek, aerodydnamic and modern styling that delivers a slick integrated look on all styles of vehicles. Any Thule gear carriers (as well as gear carriers from other car rack makers) will mount directly to the Thule square load bars.

Thule 480 Traverse video

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2005 Scion xB Roof Rack System

by Rack James on May 12, 2010

2005 Scion xB mounted with the Thule 400XT Aero rack system for naked roofs.

Image of 2005 Scion xB roof rack system mounted with the Thule 400XT Aero car rack system for naked roofs.

Here is a nice customer installation shot of a 2005 Scion xB roof rack system fitted with the Thule 400XT complete base rack system (includes 400XT Aero Foot Pack, Thule 2124 Fit Kit clips and 58 inch load bars).  The Thule 400XT Aero car rack is the predecessor to the brand new Thule 480 Traverse car rack system, which is also an option for this vehicle).  For now, this blank canvas has only a front load bar mounted LED light, but the possibilities for gear transport are too numerous to count.

More installation details for 2005 Scion xB roof rack

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2010 Subaru Outback Wagon Roof Rack Complete Information

by rackdawg on May 6, 2010

Image above shows the Thule 450R Rapid Crossroad roof rack mounted to the 2010 Subaru Outback wagon factory rack side rails.

Image above shows the Thule 450R Rapid Crossroad roof rack mounted to the 2010 Subaru Outback wagon factory rack side rails.

view original 2010 Subaru Outback wagon roof rack posting

The 2010 Subaru Outback factory rack is a radical departure from previous year models. There is much confusion regarding what is and isn’t compatible with the new 2010 Subaru Outback roof rack. While it looks and performs differently than many other factory rack systems, the 2010 Subaru Outback roof rack still offers excellent configuring flexibility for all your transport needs. And if you are considering purchasing a 2010 Subaru Outback, rest assured you will be able to transport all kinds of gear.

You can use the factory crossbars or an aftermarket multi-purpose roof rack system from Thule Racks or Yakima Racks to transport all but the very longest of equipment (i.e. long canoes or very long ocean kayaks, and in these cases you have additional transport options, see bottom of this blog posting). However, for 2010 Subaru Outback roof mount bike racks, ski-snowboard racks, cargo roof boxes, surfboard racks, stand up paddle board racks, most kayak racks, roof baskets, luggage roof bags etc. you can attach them to the 2010 Subaru Outback factory rack cross bars. Additionally, if you are attaching several gear carriers and/or need longer crossbar length you can attach an aftermarket multi-purpose base rack system to the side rails. For this option the best system is any of the Thule Crossroad roof rack models (Thule 450 Crossroad, Thule 450R Rapid Crossroad, Thule 45050 Crossroad Kit, Thule 45058 Kit) as they offer 24 inches of distance between the front and rear crossbar, while the Yakima RailGrab roof rack system offers slightly less at 21 inches. The 24 inch crossbar spread, when using the Thule Crossroad roof racks on the 2010 Subaru Outback side rails, has been tested rigorously by Thule Racks and is determined to be thoroughly safe for gear transport, even when using two 897XT Hullavator carriers mounted to the Thule Crossroad base rack cross bars to transport 2 kayaks!

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Below is the testimonial from Nick LeFort, chief fitting specialist for Thule Racks:

“As the Fit Specialist for Thule North America, I design, test and engineer most of the rack components throughout North America, and in some cases world wide. There has been a lot of noise regarding the construction of the factory roof rack on the 2010 Subaru Outback wagon. Though the design – having side rails that can convert to crossbars – is innovative, many people feel that it fails when it comes to durability and stability. With that being said, Thule decided to do some in-depth homework and “over test” the rack. The results, we feel, were remarkable…

BASE RACK SYSTEM:
Thule 450 Crossroad roof rack (with 58 inch cross bars) mounted to 2010 Subaru Outback roof rack side rails

ACCESSORIES:
Two Thule 897XT Hullavator kayak racks mounted to the 450 Crossroad 58 inch cross bars

BOATS CARRIED:
Liquid Logic Sylva / Wilderness Systems Tempest 165

Testing the limits of the rack, we loaded and unloaded the kayaks on the Hullavators – and made sure to cycle the Hullavators with the boats on them multiple times. During this phase of the test, there was no deflection in the factory rack.

For the second phase of the test, we drove the vehicle – fully loaded – at the recommended driving speeds, and at speeds upwards of 85 mph. At the end of this phase of the test, the boats and racks were:

1. Still fully intact.
2. Had not shifted on the vehicle.
3. Still fully functional.

For the third and final phase of the test, we removed the kayaks, Hullavators, and Crossroads system and cycled the factory rack; making sure to switch the side rails to the crossbar position, lock them in place, and then return them to the side rail position and locking them in place. We did this numerous times – in the end, the rack still functioned as it was designed to.

PLEASE NOTE: It is important to adhere to the suggested weight rating of 150 lbs. on this factory rack. For testing purposes we over loaded the rack and tested it in conditions that it usually wouldn’t be used for, thus eliminating our concerns – and hopefully yours.

Our goal in re-testing this rack was to not only try and disprove some of the noise that has been going around the industry regarding this factory rack – but to also instill a level of comfort and confidence in this rack system. In 15 years of selling, modifying, designing, and repairing racks I have seen it all and though the design of this rack leans towards a level of extreme – I can confidently say that the factory rack on the 2010 Subaru Outback Wagon exceeded my test expectations and is more than suitable to be used with our Thule Crossroad base rack systems and gear carrier accessories.”

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Finally, if you are transporting ultra long items such as canoes, the longest of kayaks etc., you have a couple additional options. Your first option is to use the Thule 997 GoalPost on a rear 2 inch trailer hitch (you may alrady have on your 2010 Subaru Outback wagon, and they are also easy to install). You will use the Thule 997 GoalPost in combination with a Thule Crossroad roof rack mounted to the side rails. This provides a great platform for carrying ultra long equipment. Your second option is to use a canoe-kayak trailer. This is a superb alternative to roof mount gear carriers because the convenient low level of the trailer makes it easy to load and unload gear. Trailers work on all types of trailer hitches, 1.25″ and 2″ hitches included.

Hopefully all this information has been helpful for you in selecting the proper rack system for your 2010 Subaru Outback wagon and gear transport needs. However, if you have any additional questions whatsoever do not hesitate to contact us at ORS Racks Direct.

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1984 VW Vanagon Westfalia Roof Rack Box and Hitch Bike Rack

by rackdawg on April 1, 2010

Customer installation image featuring a 1984 VW Vanagon camper roof rack cargo luggage box and hitch bikerack mounted to a 2" trailer hitch receiver.

Customer installation image featuring a 1984 VW Vanagon camper roof rack cargo luggage box and hitch bike rack mounted to a 2" trailer hitch receiver.

This ORS Racks Direct customer install picture is an excellent demonstration on how to get it done when you want to outfit a camper van for carrying cargo gear & luggage and bicycles. This  1984 VW Vanagon Westfalia roof rack cargo box and hitch bike rack setup is using the Yakima Side Loader Artificial Raingutter Brackets mounted to the sides of the Volkswagen Vanagon roof top. These brackets provide the mounting points to attach the Yakima 1A Raingutter roof rack system. The Yakima RocketBox 16 cargo box is mounted to the roof rack cross bars. Finally, for transporting up to 4 bikes the Yakima SwingDaddy hitch bike rack is connected to the 2 inch receiver hitch.

1984 VW Vanagon Westfalia roof rack box & bike rack details

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2008 Subaru Outback Roof Rack & Bike Rack

by rackdawg on March 18, 2010

This Subaru outback roof rack gets it all done! Features in this photo is a 2008 Subaru Outback roof rack and bike rack (also carrying whitewater kayaks on the car rack cross rails).

This Subaru outback roof rack gets it all done! Features in this photo is a 2008 Subaru Outback roof rack and bike rack (also carrying whitewater kayaks on the car rack cross rails).

This customer installation image demonstrates the versatility of a multi-purpose base rack system. The configuration of this 2008 Subaru Outback wagon roof rack and kayak & bike rack includes the Yakima RailGrab roof rack kit (includes four RailGrab Towers and a pair of 58 inch crossbars which attaches to the Subaru Outback factory rack side rails), a Yakima Steelhead bike rack mounted to the crossbars, a Yakima 32 inch wind-noise deflector fairing and a pair of kayak straps for holding all those river kayaks and paddles on the car rack cross rails.

2008 Subaru Outback kayak & bike roof rack install details

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2007 Subaru Impreza WRX Roof Rack and Fairing

by rackdawg on March 17, 2010

A super fine customer installation photo featuring a 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX car rack and wind fairing using the Yakima Q Tower roof rack (with two pairs of Yakima Q78 clips and 48 inch cross bars) as well as a noise deflector.

A super fine customer installation photo featuring a 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX car rack and wind fairing using the Yakima Q Tower roof rack (with two pairs of Yakima Q78 clips and 48 inch cross bars) as well as a noise deflector.

This St. Patty’s Day update is sure to bring out the ‘green’ both in envy and cash to pony up for a similar set up! We have here a customer install picture showcasing a 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX car rack and wind fairing. Components used in this configuration include the Yakima Q Towers, two pairs of Q78 Clips and a pair of 48 inch cross rails. These all make up the Yakima Q Tower roof rack system, a multi-purpose base rack that allows you to then attach any gear carriers to the cross rails. Also attached to the front cross rail is a 44 inch Yakima roof rack fairing.

2007 Subaru Impreza WRX roof rack install details

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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!”

all Thule 460 Podium car rack reviews

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2008 Lexus IS250 Roof Rack Snowboard Carrier Install

by rackdawg on March 14, 2010

A very good looking ORS Racks Direct customer installation photo featuring a 2008 Lexus IS250 car rack and snowboard-ski rack setup using the Thule 400XTR Rapid Aero roof rack with Thule 2176 Fit Kit clips. The Thule Racks 91725 universal Flat Top ski-snowboard carier is attached to the Rapid Aero cross rails. A wind noise deflector fairing is also mounted to the cross rails.

A very good looking ORS Racks Direct customer installation photo featuring a 2008 Lexus IS250 car rack and snowboard-ski rack setup using the Thule 400XTR Rapid Aero roof rack with Thule 2176 Fit Kit clips. The Thule Racks 91725 Universal Flat Top ski-snowboard carrier is attached to the Rapid Aero cross rails. A wind noise deflector fairing is also mounted to the cross rails.

Check out this customer install picture showcasing a 2008 Lexus IS250 snowboard roof rack setup that is configured with the Thule 400XTR Rapid Aero roof rack (attaches to the car top using a set of Thule 2176 Fit Kit clips, the Thule RB47 Rapid Aero load bars are also used) and Thule 91725 snowboard-ski carrier mounted to the load bars. A Thule Racks 872XT roof rack fairing is also installed onto the front Rapid Aero load bar. Thule locks are included with the ski carrier to secure skiis and snowboards, while an extra 4 pack of Thule locks is used to lock the base rack system to the Lexus IS250 roof top.

2008 Lexus IS250 car rack snowboard carrier install details

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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.”

all Thule 480 Traverse car rack reviews

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Malone Universal Cross Rail Roof Rack

by rackdawg on February 15, 2010

Image showing the amazingly inexpensive MPG203 MPG202 MPG201 Malone Universal Cross Rail car rack systems for attaching to vehicle factory raised side rails.

Image showing the amazingly inexpensive MPG203 MPG202 MPG201 Malone Universal Cross Rail car rack systems for attaching to vehicle factory raised side rails.

Now available from Malone Car Rack Systems is the  unbelievably low priced Malone Universal Cross Rail car rack system. A complete package for installing onto vehicles with factory raised side rails, providing the essential crossbars needed when connecting gear carriers to transport kayaks, canoes, surfboards, stand up paddle boards, skis, snowboards, bikes, cargo luggage, ladders and much more. The Malone Universal Cross Rail system is available in three crossbar lengths – MPG203 65 inch bars, MPG202 58 inch bars and  MPG201 50 inch bars. System even includes a set of 4 locks to secure the rack to vehicle. And the crossbars allow any Malone gear carriers,  any Inno and Thule gear carriers as well as virtually all Yakima gear carriers to attach directly to the Malone cross bars, no adapters needed.  Anyone considering the Thule 450 Crossroad, Yakima RailGrab or Inno IN-FR roof rack systems for mounting to factory siderails will definitely want to check out the much cheaper Malone Universal Cross Rail system.

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Subaru Impreza Roof Rack for Transporting Skis and Snowboards

by Rack James on October 2, 2009

Subaru Impreza roof ski rack system using Thule 450 Crossroads base rack system with Thule 91725 Universal Flat Top ski/snowboard carrier

Subaru Impreza roof ski rack system using Thule 450 Crossroads base rack system with Thule 91725 Universal Flat Top ski/snowboard carrier

All this Subaru needs now is a little bit of snow.  It is ready to go with a Thule 91725 Universal Flat Top ski/snowboard rack for carrying up to six pairs of skis or four snowboards.  The Thule 91725 ski rack is mounted to a Thule 450 Crossroads base rack system for raised factory side rails.  This Subaru Impreza was spied in October in Vermont so it won’t be long before this set up is put to good use.

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2001 Acura Integra Roof Rack for Snowboards & Skis and Hitch Bike Rack

by rackdawg on September 24, 2009

This 2001 Acura Integra snowboard & bike roof rack and 1.25" hitch mount bike rack customer installation includes the Thule 409 specialty car rack, Thule 518 Echelon, Thule 91725 FlatTop and Yakima Hold Up.

This 2001 Acura Integra snowboard & bike roof rack and 1.25" hitch mount bike rack customer installation includes the Thule 409 specialty car rack, Thule 518 Echelon, Thule 91725 FlatTop and Yakima Hold Up.

A fine customer installation featuring a 2001 Acura Integra car roof rack system with a bike rack and ski-snowboard rack attached. There is also a hitch mount bike rack connected to the Acura Integra 1-1/4″ receiver hitch. The configuration includes the Thule 409 Acura Integra car rack system, Thule 91725 ski-snowboard carrier, Thule 518 Echelon bike rack and Yakima HoldUp hitch bike rack for 1.25 inch hitches.

2001 Acura Integra roof rack and hitch bike rack install details

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