Best cargo racks according to redditors

I have been doing some research on roof racks and baskets lately. This jeepgarage wk2 forum is very informative. The post is about roof rack systems. http://www.jeepgarage.org/f176/wk2-rack-systems-manufacturers-list-74013.html



I really like Rhino Rack's basket -
https://www.amazon.com/Rhino-Rack-Mount-Basket-Regular/dp/B00A5VG6Q6/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1503189941&sr=8-4&keywords=rhino-rack


Although, i'll likely go with the Rola because it's less expensive and i plan on taking it off when it's not in use. https://www.etrailer.com/Roof-Basket/Rola/59504.html




Here are the vendors that are mentioned on the jeepgarage post, in case you dont want to sign up to log in.

— Baja Rack:
Mule: Baja Rack
MegaMule: Baja Rack

— DiamondRax: Roof Racks - DiamondRax - Con-ferr Style

— Garvin: Garvin Wilderness Racks

— Gobi: Gobi Jeep

— Inno: inno (RV-Inno) /ADVANCED CAR RACKS,

— Mopar: Jeep Grand Cherokee Sport Utility Bars (Part No: 82212072AC)

— Rhino: Rhino RackÂUSA | Car Roof Racks, Cargo Trays, Ski & Bike Racks

— Rocky Road: Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Rack:Â*2011+ Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Rack

— ROLA: ROLA Roof Racks

— Saris: Saris (currently no rack for WK2)

— Thule: Bring your life: Racks and Carriers for Bikes Skis Kayaks Canoes Surfboards - Roof racks - Roof boxes – Bags and Cases for Travel Laptops Cameras Tablets Smartphones – Bike Bags and Racks – Snow Chains – Camping - Thule

— TracRac: Homepage | TracRac

— Yakima: Yakima | Car Racks

For sure!

https://imgur.com/gallery/XPhiDGR

I somehow messed up those links on imgur.

Roof rack

Youtube guy

I have these and I love them. They look super sleek and work great. Super easy installation. I don't have a basket, just j arms for kayaks that I use with them.

Use a hitch carrier and forget about it. Much simpler.

I would get a dash cam for starters. I personally like to keep my interior clean, aside from audio upgrade in the future, I only have all weather floor mats, collapsible cargo storage & cargo net for the trunk. However, I'm planning to do a lot on the exterior since I plan to do a lot of camping & off roading.

What it currently looks like right now: https://i.redd.it/k9lez1u607931.jpg

ARB Awning 2000: https://www.amazon.com/ARB-4x4-Accessories-Awning-2000/dp/B00MI3V7YA/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=arb+awning+2000&qid=1562902808&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

Awning Clamps: https://www.gziladesigns.com/products/awning-mounting-clamps

Rola V-Tex Roof Basket: https://www.amazon.com/59504-V-Tex-Rooftop-Cargo-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=rola+vortex&qid=1562902837&s=gateway&sr=8-2

I searched for hours trying to find other examples of people putting front racks on their trailers and didn’t come up with anything useful for me, so I’m just putting this out there to help other people who might be looking to add a rack one day.

When I bought my teardrop trailer it came with the connections to hook-up a ClimateRight A/C unit, but didn’t have a rack to store it on or transport it. I tried a few things:

1. The trailer manufacturer wanted $200 for a rack and they were in another state, so I had to pay high shipping costs.
   
   
2. Local fabricators wanted $200+ to custom make a rack
   
   
3. Most commercial “trailer tongue racks” were smaller, triangle shaped designs without the capacity I needed, specifically to carry my generator, ClimateRight AC unit, and ideally a gas can outside of the trailer.
   
   
4. I looked at a few “hitch racks” and actually bought one like this cheaper Highland model. The problem is they were very wide, cutting in to my turning radius, and they were structurally weak without the “hitch” beam running down the center, which I would have had to remove to mount it to my trailer frame.
   
   In addition, I really didn’t want to have to drill holes in the trailer frame as I don’t have the tools for drilling in heavy duty steel.
   
   My solution was this- Titan Universal ATV Rear Back Cargo Basket, $79 with free prime shipping at Amazon.
   
   It came with mounting bars that are designed to clamp an existing rack on the back of an ATV, and the 22” x 39” size were almost perfect for holding my Westinghouse Generator (last years design of this model), AC unit, and a 5 gallon gas can.
   
   The only thing I needed to do was go purchase longer bolts for the bracket from my local hardware store (I used ACE instead of a big box so I could buy single bolts instead of large packs, cost me $2.50 total) and in about 30 minutes I had a steel rack clamped down to my trailer tight. Unlike the “hitch” style racks, the ATV rack had a full tubular steel frame that is rigid and strong and required no additional supports or drilling- I simply used the existing mounting holes and brackets to clamp it to the frame.
   
   Of everything I tried this is by far the simplest and best option out there.

I have driven the length of California at least 10 times with my board using some [shitty straps similar to these] (https://www.amazon.com/Block-Surf-Single-Wrap-Surfboard/dp/B000J47RD0/ref=sr_1_3?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1521695902&sr=1-3&keywords=surfboard+car). I am from SoCal by went to school in NorCal.

That said, during the summeryou're unlikely to find good surf any further north than orange county. Your better trip would be to head south to baja.

I can answer this one! I have this rack on my Impreza. It's the Tyger rack, and I got mine on Amazon. It's a great rack. I loved the fact that it's pretty deep, but not as stylistically bland as the Yakima rack.

Edit: This one

You don’t need an entire trailer. Just buy a hitch cargo rack and strap your deer down on the back. Like this one...https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003NBFKDK/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1517492289&sr=8-11&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=hitch+rack+cargo+carrier

Not exactly ideal....

http://www.amazon.com/Bumper-Carrier-Basket-Capacity-Reveiver/dp/B0148YB958/ref=sr_1_3?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1456872406&sr=1-3-spons&keywords=trailer+hitch+cargo+carrier&psc=1

So you can’t see this but on the other side I have an awning attached. The crossbars that Subaru offers have 0 overhang so I wouldn’t have been able to attach my awning to the cross bars. They are cheap and affordable but really worked well for my build

Crossbars: CargoLoc 2-Piece 52" Aluminum Roof Top Cross Bar Set – Fits Maximum 46” Span Across Existing Raised Side Rails with Gap – Features Keyed Locking Mechanism https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GA2HKAU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_cwf8Cb69Y48TR

Roofbasket: Tyger Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack | L47 x W37 x H6 | Roof Top Luggage Carrier | with Wind Fairing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FNDCSTO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Xxf8CbHC8NWHG

https://www.amazon.com/Block-Surf-Single-Wrap-Surfboard/dp/B000J47RD0

Factory cross rails and rola rack from Amazon.

ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_1P5xzb7FHK3VA

I just bought the cross bars and roof rack for my 2019. Look nice.

eBay cross bars:

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F303129773925

Amazon roof rack:

MaxxHaul 46" x 36" x 4-1/2" - 150... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073G49NPV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I installed the OEM roof rack for my Impreza. Plus, I finally installed the LED light strip that /u/cuterocky recommended. Bonus: the roof rack came with a nice torx driver.

Roof Rack: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B008216AVM

LED Strip Kit: http://www.diodedynamics.com/store/catalog/product/view/id/22532/s/flexlight-trunk-led-strip/category/812/

Hitch mount for sure. They are fairly inexpensive and you can still use your trunk. Plus don’t have to worry about the paint getting messed up

I use this one from curt. I’ve been happy with it and it’s a fraction of the price of others

CURT 18084 Tray-Style Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00G4AB4MS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_tR5OCbN3P1QAG

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018SCMIR4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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Cheap and has worked out great for me.

I went with a slightly more expensive option because I didn't like the look of the previously posted one.

Rails

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07BL264KL?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Cargo
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002M4AVGU?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

I don't own an FJ anymore, but when I did I had this cargo tray: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B003NBFKDK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I also bought a Rola vinyl carry bag with it:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E7WLJW/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The only thing about it that was a drag is you can't open the rear door of the FJ when there is stuff mounted on the rack. You can still get to stuff in the back of your FJ through the window, but not sure if that will work for you. Something to consider, anyway.

No Problem! Here is everything I've done so far:

Rola 59506 Roof Rack

Cross Bars

Black Trailhawk Wheels

BFGoodrich KO2 Tires 245/65/17

LED interior lights

LED license plate lights

LED Fog Lights

[Ultra Canbus HID kit 35W.9006.4500K]
(http://www.ddmtuning.com/Products/UltraCanbusHID)

Etsy Hood Decal

I also plastidipped the roof, roof rails, crossbars, and the part of the trunk that overhangs above the back window. Let me know if you have any questions.

1. ROLA Rooftop Cargo Basket
   
   https://www.amazon.com/59504-V-Tex-Rooftop-Cargo-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC
   
   
2. 2.0" SST Lift Kit - Toyota RAV4 2019
   
   https://www.readylift.com/2-0-sst-lift-kit-toyota-rav4-2019.html
   
   
3. Petrol P6A Matte Black Wheels
   
   https://www.discounttire.com/buy-wheels/petrol-p6a
   
   
4. Nitto Ridge Grappler 255 /55 R18 109T XL BSW
   
   https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/nitto-ridge-grappler/p/37746
   
   
5. K&N Air Filter 33-2443
   
   https://www.knfilters.com/air-filters/33-2443-replacement-air-filter

Same advice as above, just cheaper.

Block Surf Soft Rack I find myself using my racks for lots of other things besides just the board, so it'll be a good investment.

I somehow managed to score the Rhino Rack for $152.71 on Amazon, which is about 1/3 the original cost. I'm pretty sure it was a return or scratch-and-dent because the package was partially opened and there was a 4" gouge along the bottom of the rear cross bar. I just used some black enamel paint to cover it up.

Rhino Rack 2016-2017 Compatible with Chevrolet Cruze Including Limited 4dr Sedan Vortex RS 2500 Sport Roof Rack Black RS215B

The ROLA Cargo Basket was $119.59 which again, I somehow managed to get at 30% off. I guess constantly scouring Amazon eventually pays off. The basket is pretty well constructed and very strong, but it's also heavy thick steel. I would have preferred aluminum to save weight.

ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket

I also got the ROLA Cargo Net that fits the rack. I figured it was best to get the matching one in case any of the other random ones on Amazon didn't fit correctly. Also very strong and has just enough stretch to accommodate about 8" of cargo in the basket.

ROLA 59200 Flat Strap Cargo Net

Finally, I ordered a two pack of Cruze logo stickers off eBay and rubbed off the ROLA logo to put that in its place. Adds a nice custom touch.

2X CHEVROLET CRUZE logo sticker vinyl decal

If you only have one bike to transport, another option is to get any vehicle that fits your budget but make sure it has a trailer hitch attachment point!

Step two, get a motorcycle rack hitch! They’re like $50-$100 (I got mine used on Craigslist) and they can pretty much make any car with a hitch a dirt bike transport, just need some straps.

I only got a truck fairly recently so between my teenage years stuffing my TTR into my mom’s van and then using a trailer hitch attachment with my beater car before my Tacoma, I figured out ways to make it work!

Here’s the hitch I’m talking about
motorcycle trailer hitch

Yeah I bought mine off amazon for $50. https://www.amazon.com/Seah-Hardware-Universal-Cross-Bars-Inches/dp/B076KDY47H/ref=mp_s_a_1_18?keywords=roof+rack&qid=1564421508&s=gateway&sr=8-18

I got this one from Amazon!
Steel Motorcycle Scooter Dirtbike Carrier Hauler Hitch Mount Rack Ramp Anti Tilt https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018SCMIR4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_zX8KIxtXDNpe1

Been pretty happy with it although I had to loosen and re tighten it a few times to make it straight. If you over tighten the bolt the metal will cave a bit but overall it's been super sturdy. The anti tilt thing it comes with is trash though. I bought an after market pin and it still has some movement but wasn't terrible.

Edit: The capacity is rated for 500 lbs for the carrier but it's all about the tongue weight of the hitch. My KDX is only like 250-300 lbs altogether but I can sit on the bike with it on the the rack just fine to tighten the straps down!

Not sure about kayaks, but I used one of these with my old truck and it worked great. Easily removable too when not in use.
https://www.amazon.com/Swagman-Pick-Truck-Bike-Rack/dp/B00I25NI4K/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1549597705&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=truck+bed+bike+mount&dpPl=1&dpID=21QyG5sttgL&ref=plSrch

Rola 59504 Vortex Roof Mounted Cargo Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_CAf4wb8VBQAWY

Amazon!

BRIGHTLINES 2018 Subaru Crosstrek & 2017-2018 Impreza Aero Crossbars Roof Racks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079K69B5L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_K4mZBbGT8EV6B

ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_e5mZBbAPW3AVJ

Tyger Auto TYGER Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack | L47 x W37 x H6 | Roof Top Luggage Carrier | With Wind Fairing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FNDCSTO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.1LUBb8RR52MM

I'll check my rating, but I have a 2016 silverado so I'm confident it will do it.


Do you by chance have pics on how you strapped it down? I have strapped mine in the bed and maybe I go overboard, but the pics on the Amazon review looks like they used one strap haha.

Also what kind of bike?


Edit : is this the one? Looks more heavy duty

Black Widow MCC-600 600 lb HeavyDutySteelMotorcycleCarrier–600lb.Capacity https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WFIJ362/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_7rT6CbNDE9731

This for the hitch: https://www.amazon.com/Tricam-SLE-1-Extender-350-Pound-Capacity/dp/B00HDL2DX6/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3E858HYADOOWC&keywords=truck+extender+for+kayak&qid=1558458747&s=gateway&sprefix=truck+exten%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-4

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This for the roof bar: https://www.amazon.com/Darby-Industries-968-Black-Turbo/dp/B0015D19SS/ref=pd_bxgy_469_img_3/143-5320052-1184969?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0015D19SS&pd_rd_r=9fc290b5-7beb-11e9-aae6-5da153af3a65&pd_rd_w=na8ZS&pd_rd_wg=Q9G0k&pf_rd_p=a2006322-0bc0-4db9-a08e-d168c18ce6f0&pf_rd_r=J1E5WC3JM9Q1Y7CE17WE&psc=1&refRID=J1E5WC3JM9Q1Y7CE17WE

​

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Works pretty well, I also use it for hauling long pieces of lumber or ladders.

What's the brand and model of hitch you installed? What's the class rating? Year make and model of the vehicle?

http://www.amazon.com/CURT-18050-Bike-Stabilizer-Strap/dp/B003721CC8

I use a Swagman adjustable truck bed bike rack in my 2015 DCSB.

Swagman Adjustable Truck Bed Bike Rack

It fits great and is rock solid between my side bed tracks. I mount the two bikes and move it rear wheel to its respective side of the bed and I am able to close the tailgate with no issues.
The bike rack has a lock that keeps it from being undone and both bike carriers lock as well. Then I run a cable through the rear wheels, frame and front wheels that is locked into the rear tie down points in the bed.

I will be using it this weekend. If you are interested I can snap a picture of the setup for you.

It's this one

TYGER Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack | L47" x W37" x H6" | Roof Top Luggage Carrier | With Wind Fairing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FNDCSTO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_KDP7ybPW49KGK

It appears to be 100% identical to the rhino, but over $100 cheaper. Only difference is it says tyger instead of rhino. I didn't know the x style came in any other size. Really doesn't matter. I. The three months I've had it, I put nothing in it except my my crushed dreams of good gas milage. Looks cool though 😂

> Additionally OP wants access to his rear doors so it looks like you didn't even read the post...

No I read the OP first then read all the others.

Actually I have cycled year round for over 2 decades and I also have traveled across the US for work; so I am well aware of the different state statutes and different hitches available.

This will work for a rear hitch: https://www.amazon.com/CURT-18084-Tray-Style-Hitch-Mounted-Bike/dp/B00G4AB4MS/ref=sr_1_20?ie=UTF8&qid=1496246713&sr=8-20&keywords=bike+racks+hitch+mount

And the bike rack cannot obstruct the view of the license plate anyhow:http://www.bikeforums.net/general-cycling-discussion/638859-hitch-bike-carriers-legality-blocking-license-plate.html

There is another reason why bike racks on the front is frowned upon and state troopers will pull you over. They often obstruct the view front the front windshield unless your vehicle has a driver's seat with a high vantage point.

Partially obstructing the view of a rear window isn't as big of a concern as a front windshield.

Edit:

another excerpt:

https://www.themarshallproject.org/2015/08/03/how-the-supreme-court-made-it-legal-for-cops-to-pull-you-over-for-just-about-anything#.uMWVeJjS2
"Attached carriers for wheelchairs and scooters? Illegal. Rental trailers? Illegal. Bicycle racks? Illegal. “[E]ven a public bus equipped with a bicycle rack on its front would be unlawful under the State’s reading,” the court said. But in the end, the determination that police had misread the law did Gaytan no good. The court decided the police’s mistake was reasonable, and, citing Heien, refused to throw out the drugs seized in the stop."

You take your chances with hitch racks.

I bought this one https://www.amazon.com/59504-V-Tex-Rooftop-Cargo-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503946608&sr=8-1&keywords=Rola+roof+basket

I paid a little less than the sticker price because one was available "used" for $100. Really the only thing used about it was a damaged box.

How long have you had it?

The Rola is one of the ones I have been looking at.

Looks like a nice low profile. Easy attachment to the crossbars?

It's a Rola roof rack, with the 18" extension.

Thank you! It's a rola basket with the extension to make it a lil bigger and a yitamotor 34 inch curved Led bar. The curve of the bar matches the curve of the basket almost perfectly. I wrapped the basket where it attaches together with FiberFix just for some extra strength and also the back half of the basket is suspended over the roof without support from a cross bar so it needed the reinforcement.

Yeah with the arm clamp models you'd have to remove the rack. I have a really hard time managing 2 bikes at once on my Freedom EX though.

Been thinking about switching to a sea sucker roof mount lately.

This is the strap I use

Easy to tighten and it stays tight. I keep both halves in my trunk and after a year still looks brand new.

Rola Vertex. http://www.amazon.com/Rola-59504-Vortex-Mounted-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1375312790&sr=8-3&keywords=rola

I got it for $147 i believe on amazon

I went with a very similar setup and just installed the cargo basket today! I got some decent but cheaper knockoffs of a very similar crossbar (a bit lower profile) on ebay. I had to hit em with some plastidip to black em out. ebay link

and the same rack but just another brand and a bit cheaper: amazon link

I agree the combo of low profile bars and that style basket is a great look on a Rene.

Thanks man, loving it so far and it's a absolute beast off the pavement. Stock tires Nito Grappler 32s (if I remember right). Rola cheapo rack from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004R34HDC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1503797322&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=rola+rack&dpPl=1&dpID=41xQkXPkI-L&ref=plSrch


Fixed link

thanks! HERE is the rack i'm using and for the price, i'm extremely pleased. though due to the max weight of 150lbs, i've only used it so far to throw light camping equipment and a cooler up top. also, i wish it was 10" - 12" longer so that i could have my light bar positioned a bit futher up.

Thanks everyone!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004R34HDC/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

See here: http://imgur.com/tyswKGE. I don't think I've uploaded a picture from the side since I've moved the cargo basket back. I'll dig through my phone and see what I find, but basically picture the rails and basket in the back, there's probably about 4 inches of clearance between the end of the basket and the antenna.

Rack: Yakima Whispbar (Size: S46) http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B003BFN5EO?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

Basket: Yakima LoadWarrior http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009XAMTM?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00

If I were to look at cargo baskets again, I might consider the Rhino Rack basket: http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A5VG6Q6?refRID=0J5JVYZFQA2Z4KQWCYRK&ref_=pd_ybh_a_26 .It fits aero blades as well and looks a little more aerodynamic.

Its a 6' foot bed, but 7' with the tailgate down. I have a truckbed extender ( like this )on the back that gives me an extra 3-4' . The extender is marked with reflective tape and I usually put a red flag on the end (I hope to get some trailer lights on the extender at some point). About 4' extends past the hitch accessory. I've also put foam on the metal extender to prevent damage. Overall I'm pretty satisfied with how it worked out.

Edit: Also, the fisheye lens on the camera makes them look alot longer than they actually are.

The rack was purchased from amazon. Its from a manufacturer named Highland.

https://www.amazon.com/Highland-2006200-Black-Heavy-Carrier/dp/B0002MABL4/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1518734098&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=van+roof+rack

Looks like the Yakima Loadwarrior. IMHO, it's too tall. I much prefer the Rola roof basket. Slimmer profile, killer look.

Rola rack + optional extension

roof rack. the roof rack (or rails) runs front to back, cross bars run across. neither Yakima or Thule make a roof rack for your car, so you're going to be stuck with a generic rack. Maybe something like this or this.

Ideally, you get a roof rack and cross bars. Canoes don't use J-racks. You could just use foam blocks and ratchet straps, but it's sketchy if you're going too fast or far. I've made 400 mile trips using foam blocks, but you got to be sure and tie it down well and use bow and stern lines.

Here's a great expanation of how to tie it down. It's worth buying the hood tie down things, $7 on Amazon.

17' canoe is heavy unless it's composite. there's some videos of best ways to load them solo.

New comment so you get notified. The roof is about 50.5 inches at its highest, IF you take off the mirrors and the entire front fairing you MAY be able to make the gauge cluster fit under the roof with a hairs thickness to spare.

HOWEVER it looks like the doors in standard vans stop a few inches lower than the peak of the roof and as my doors came extended in height I can't give you a absolute answer there, but if before I was going to tell you it would really really suck to get it in and you'd be scraping knuckles, with that in mind I honestly don't believe you'll be clearing the door to get it in.

Maybe if you deflate the tires, take all that off, and loosen/lower the handlebars back? But you'd probably damage the tires and it really wouldn't be worth the hassle. Just buy one of these and save yourself the annoyance of having fuel smells in your sleeping area. Yeah it's the more expensive one but it's worth it to not see your bike sliding on the road behind you.

Rola Racks are affordable https://www.amazon.com/59504-V-Tex-Rooftop-Cargo-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC

I wouldn't feel comfortable putting anything other than a disposable [walmart] bike on that rack. Especially not someone else's expensive mountain or road bike.

Spend a few extra bucks and get something beefier (Can usually be found for ~$130): https://www.amazon.com/CURT-18084-Tray-Style-Hitch-Mounted-Bike/dp/B00G4AB4MS/ref=pd_sbs_468_39?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=Z6ZAR7M7X7QVV441WW7M

Bought a swagman xtc rack when I bought my hitch from etrailer a few months ago. They're around ~$215 or you can get the cheaper swagman xc for ~$100 (same thing, but xtc is the update with nicer platforms). They both had around 1000 reviews at 4.5 stars and I've had no problems with mine.

I bought curt's bike rack support strap and it made the rack solid with no worries about wobbling. Just took it on a 5hr road trip with 2 road bikes driving at ~80mph. I could do 85-90 but it would wobble a little so I stuck around 80.

To combat the scratching the frame problem I bought pipe insulation (aka pool noodles) for $5 and put them on over the top tubes so no worries about the rack scratching anything.

Just be aware that the rack can only fit tires <= 2.5inch or else you need to buy the wider platforms from amazon which are like $15 for a pair or something if you have a fat bike.

Hello,

I had a blazer. Frist thing I did was put Thule cross bars on the factory bar. There was way too much play in the factory cross bars...so I ditched them.

Second. Look into a ladder rack. like this one. With that you can slide the boats back a bit and still have solid connection to the truck.

That looks nice for $140 (I was looking at this guy for $185 but if they're equivalent I'll take the cheap one). Can it hold all styles of adult bike (road, mountain, city)? Thinking of doing a bike tour on my Miata in July.


Also does it need any additional hardware if I get this hitch? For install, some instructions seem to imply it requires drilling, others not?

I machined some aluminum extensions that I bolted on to these roofrack feet so that I could clear the hightop. http://www.amazon.com/Highland-2006200-Black-Heavy-Carrier/dp/B0002MABL4/ref=sr_1_3?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1464196496&sr=1-3&keywords=van+roof+rack

Then used conduit tubing for the rest of the frame work. I happened across some really wonderful tubing connector pieces a few years ago that I held on to because I knew they would come in handy at some point and they helped out big time form mounting the crossbeams.

Used angle beams for nesting the solar panels.

Good mount. And easy to install and remove.

Harbor freight one sucks. I use this.
http://www.amazon.com/TMS-T-NS-HITCH-BED-EXTENDER-Pickup-Mounted-Extender/dp/B005KVLX50/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406771784&sr=8-1&keywords=pickup+truck+bed+extender
You can find it with free shipping. Better ground clearance than the harbor freight version and way more adjust ability. You can use it with SUV's or ladder racks too. Maybe not as much clearance as the T-bone but I haven't hit the ground with it. It's solid too. It will rust through when my Hitch rusts through.

This is the current basket I have right now here . Only thing I did was add a camo vinyl to the fairing. The old one is here , but I don’t recommend it due to its flimsiness. The tow hook is just an aesthetic tow hook from amazon as well, it’s non functional.

I bought this one and it worked great for hauling the grandfather of the Helix, my Elite 250, when we went camping with my camper shell on the truck. The instructions were kind of shitty, a basic knowledge of how to use nuts and washers helps a lot because they basically just give you the parts and say go at it. I’m sure it’s not the greatest but it’s probably on par with the HF one for 2/3 the price.

That’s ok I’ll look some more. I found this , dose yours look like this with a front plate?

The mounts are the gutter mount plates from a gutter mount ladder rack from amazon. $40 http://www.amazon.com/Highland-2006200-Black-Heavy-Carrier/dp/B0002MABL4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1459209030&sr=8-3&keywords=ladder+rack+gutter

I would probably remove the battery, seat post, and front wheel if you can to reduce weight. Try using these straps that hooks onto your trunk to help out with the load:

Curt 18050

Rola makes a decent one that won't break the bank. I ran one until I could do a "better" rack that really wasn't any better. It comes disassembled and you have to put together. The only thing you'll want to do is seal the joints with silicone as you assemble, keeps it from getting water inside.
ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4td-Bb49V7DMK

It’s a Rola basket.

ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ZLb8Bb6KNJF2K

you need the fixed crossbar set from subaru. it's made by thule and exact same parts as the set bought from thule but like 1/3rd the price at about $175-ish

https://www.amazon.com/Subaru-Fixed-Crossbar-Impreza-E361SFJ000/dp/B008216AVM

No need to search--this is what I bought.

https://www.amazon.com/CURT-18050-Bike-Support-Strap/dp/B003721CC8

Found this on Amazon in another thread: https://www.amazon.com/Subaru-Fixed-Crossbar-Impreza-E361SFJ000/dp/B008216AVM

​

I'm in the same boat as you, 2012 Impreza hatch. Last season I just threw skis/snowboards in the back, but I'm looking into making things a bit more comfortable for my passengers this season. Looked on the Thule website, and the crossbars alone are $500+ so this looks pretty good.

Thule and a couple other companies make custom and/or semi-custom-fit clip-on roof racks for most cars. They're kind of expensive but are popular with the kayak/biking crowd who use them enough to justify it.

etrailer has a few options.

There are also more generic strap-on racks like this one. I have one like that, it works fine, but the straps coming in through the tops of the doors let in a fair amount of road noise and I'd be hesitant to go on the highway because as much as I yank/pull/ratchet the straps down, I can still pretty easily yank the bars side to side. But it's fine for trips to the hardware store and around town.

No idea about the legality of what's in your video, but it made me veeeeery nervous.

Have you considered using a trailer hitch mount? Of course it depends on bike weight but there are many for all sizes. Might change the handling of your truck more than you desire, but allows you to use the bedspace more efficiently.
Goplus 600 LBS Motorcycle Carrier Dirt Bike Rack Hitch Mount Hauler Heavy Duty with Loading Ramp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C5EYV9E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_As10CbJ71JH3N

Here's what I have - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FNDCSTO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_SxSYCb0X8G0CH - I love it, good build quality and no issues with rust in over a years time.

Did some digging and it looks like the super cheap ones (https://www.reddit.com/r/CherokeeXJ/comments/c4bex4/found_some_reviews_of_our_15_ebay_roof_rack_and/) didnt work out (https://www.reddit.com/r/CherokeeXJ/comments/c5xynn/that_roof_rack_aint_looking_so_good/) and the ebay/amazon market has leveled out.


Cheapest I currently found on amazon is still the one I bought in 2018: https://smile.amazon.com/MaxxHaul-70115-Steel-Rack-150-Capacity/dp/B073G49NPV/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=maxxhaul&qid=1570734169&sr=8-1. (Though when I bought it it was $65, currently $70.)


All theMaxxhaul, Leader, Arksen, "Direct Aftermarket" stuff on amazon is all the same thing (like, the same exact product with a different label) as the Haulmaster.

@crosstrekticon

Here you go

I have Brightlines and I love them. They're very reasonably priced. Never had a problem with them, so easy to get on and off. (Well, on, anyway. I put them on and never took them off.)

You didn't ask about carriers, and I know most people use J hooks, but I went with a more expensive carrier. I use Malone Seawings. I chose them because I'm a 5'5" woman and I needed to get the kayak up and down by myself (on a Jeep Renegade, which sits a little high). I don't think I could get the kayak up over a J hook by myself. With the Seawings, I can just slide it into place. (I use a Malone roller to get it up and down.)

I used this one. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073G49NPV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1LfXDb95AH8YF

It’s only $69 but I used it to carry supplies from NJ to Key West. Held up very well.

ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_dx6WDbHCGPD3R

Make sure you if you get this, use wd40 to get the rubber covers on because without it, it's a pain.

Get blocks, https://www.amazon.com/Block-Surf-Single-Wrap-Surfboard/dp/B000J47RD0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502243952&sr=8-1&keywords=surfboard+car+straps

I have this one:
http://www.amazon.com/CURT-18084-Hitch-Mounted-Tray-Style-Bike/dp/B00G4AB4MS

This is what it looks like on the car:
https://imgur.com/fVMeA3a
https://imgur.com/oUgzKiE

Curt also makes a 4 bike version of this which ends up being a 2 bike rack with a 2 bike extension depending on what you are carrying.

I also picked up the locks for it for like another 20 bucks. The rack is very well built and everything tightens down nicely. It's pretty easy to put on and take off. For the price I really don't think you can do better. I looked at the Thule and Yakima as I previously had a 4 bike Thule hanging rack which I loved. The Thule and Yakima racks ended up being about the price of one of my bikes which seemed crazy to me.

I had the rack on 3 months this year and it held up just fine! The tools included fit nicely in the glove box and make for easy adjustments. The locking knobs made me feel very secure carrying my bike. I think it would be tough to remove it. Some comments said the wheels on their bikes bounced out of the carrier, ignore them. I see no way this is possible unless they, had a mountain bike with unlocked/uncompressed suspension or didn't actually tighten down the clamp. If you are really worried I guess you could pick up some velcro.

Edit: Should point out that it is a WRX, I've just swapped trunks with an STI.

I have a carrier that's rated to 700lbs - trailers are a pain in the ass. So I keep the BMW and rent an SUV for whenever I need to use my "bike rack".

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Widow-MCC-600-Heavy-Duty-Motorcycle/dp/B00WFIJ362

This thing is awesome.

I bought this from Amazon. Worked for me so far. It was a little scary at first but I haven't had even close to an accident in the past 8 months. I've even gone 70mph+ on the freeway with it, though not really recommended.

http://www.amazon.com/Block-Surf-Single-Wrap-Surfboard/dp/B000J47RD0

I got this for our Outback:

https://www.amazon.com/Rola-59504-Vortex-Mounted-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC

Plus this:

https://www.amazon.com/Rola-59505-Vortex-Mounted-Extension/dp/B001G4Z5NQ/ref=pd_lpo_263_tr_t_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=G17AAJSCYHB7EMTKT31N

It's a HUGE rack and half the price of Thule or Yakima. Highly recommend. I believe you'll need to purchase the crossbars for it though.

I got a Rola. Looks good and well made. They dipped down to $100, but now $130

Pic - http://i.imgur.com/oHann2H.jpg

Link - https://www.amazon.com/Rola-59504-Vortex-Mounted-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1483125026&sr=8-1&keywords=rola+vortex

Tyger

> Eh...I think the question was in regards to a setup for carrying a bike without a trailer. I'd be interested in it as well since a trailer is way more limiting, exposed, upkeep, another point of failure, and the associated costs that go with a trailer.

I use https://www.amazon.com/Black-Widow-MCC-600-Heavy-Duty-Motorcycle/dp/B00WFIJ362/ but need to do some work to get my hitch extended. It's pretty sketchy getting my bike up that ramp by myself - given that it's about 500 pounds. I can't open the door with the bike there too. It looks like this van-bulance has a pass through.

Looks like one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/Rola-59504-Vortex-Mounted-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC

It's called Smittybilt Overlander Tent, we got it second hand from someone. It does not come with the roof rack, I bought the rack on Amazon. Its recommended that you dont have it on the stock roof rack that's built on the jeep. Tent and Roof Rack we did have to trim the roof rack down for the tent.

Oh, in that case, you may want to consider a hitch rack just to carry a few more things without hurting the range much. You may still have to take it off for the supercharger cable to reach though... might be worth it to bring a few more things with you.

Rola Vortex

It’s the normal size rhino rack. Rhino Rack Roof Mount Cargo Basket, Regular https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A5VG6Q6?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0002MABL4?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004R34HDC/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485627012&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=rola+basket&dpPl=1&dpID=51XvUDtHH4L&ref=plSrch

Here ya go! It's this one. I've really liked having it so far! Also, I totally have that ice chest lol.

Not sure what if your van has rain gutters or if you can get these, but rain gutter ladder racks provide a good base to mount L Bar, prevents you from needing to drill holes, and is easily removable.

I think its this

I have this one: http://www.amazon.com/CURT-18084-Hitch-Mounted-Tray-Style-Bike/dp/B00G4AB4MS

The price seems to fluctuate a lot. I bought it less than 2 months ago for $140, now its $186.

If you put a hitch on the Sube you can get one of these and you’re all set.

I highly recommend the very cheap kind that just straps to your roof. 30 seconds to put on, 30 seconds to take off. I have been using this one, and I'm super happy with it. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015D19SS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I transport 2 17 foot yaks on the roof of my pickup truck in conjunction with one of these at roof level coming from the rear tow hitch
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HDL2DX6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here is the mobile version of your link