Rating of car roof racks: the best models of different price ranges
Content
Some roof racks must be registered. If you do not draw up documents in the traffic police, penalties up to 500 rubles can be applied to the driver. or the removal of the vehicle to the impound.
The rating of car roof racks includes models from different categories. Consider their differences, advantages and selection criteria.
Types of fastenings of the upper trunks on a car
Before studying the rating of car roof racks, you should familiarize yourself with the types of models. The market presents five basic designs designed for specific tasks.
Expeditionary
The difference from classic products lies in the increased size and capacity. In order for the structure to withstand the load, it is equipped with reinforcing elements. Suitable for SUVs, vans, minibuses. Characteristics:
- Withstand heavy loads, load capacity exceeds 300 kg.
- In production, carbon pipes are used to maintain the weight balance.
- Reinforced fasteners in quantities from 4 to 8 pieces.
Roof rails
Turkish companies are considered one of the leading manufacturers. The roof rails are longitudinal arcs that are combined with the crossbars.
The distance between the fasteners is adjustable, thanks to this, versatility is achieved. Trunks are often used to transport non-standard cargo.
Rail trunk
The body is kept safe because the structure does not come into contact with its surface. Among the disadvantages - when transporting a large load, aerodynamics are sometimes lost, the disadvantage can also affect the handling of the vehicle.
For bicycles
Bicycle racks are also used for other sports equipment. The design includes separate fasteners mounted in different areas of the body. The advantages of transporting bicycles on such racks:
- the safest mode of transportation;
- the mount does not have to be removed after the trip is completed;
- holds several bikes;
- the bike does not get dirty;
- there is a castle.
Universal
The most common type of trunks in urban areas. Represents metal crossbars with crossbars. Installation is possible on almost all vehicles.
Versatility is also achieved by a variety of accessories - they help to carry most types of cargo, including sports equipment. An inflatable box can be installed to protect the contents of the trunk from rain and dirt.
Boxes
The closed design solves the problem of confidentiality and cargo protection from theft. Suitable for non-standard cargo, there are models with small and large volume. Recommended for city trips and long journeys. Advantages:
- protection of cargo from precipitation, pollution;
- space in the inside of the box;
- installation of the lock.
Car roof rack box
This trunk does not reduce the aerodynamic index; against the background of analogues, a low noise level is observed.
Tough
In production, hard plastic is used, which increases durability. Capacity for any amount of cargo. The installation process is fast even on first use. The characteristics allow you to travel with this roof rack in any weather.
The design withstands exposure to low temperatures, cracks are not observed. The price of the line is higher than that of analogues.
Soft
The basis of the trunk is a durable fabric with waterproof properties. The technology compared to the rigid type is more economical, but keeps the installation process simple. A variety of shapes and volumes allows you to choose a trunk for any task.
Rating of the best roof racks
The rating of trunks for car roof rails and other types represents all classes. Cheap models have smaller size and load capacity. Good trunks from reputable companies have a large volume and universal mounts.
Cheap
One of the budget trunks is the Ant D-1. The mount is fixed behind the door, the crossbars are made of steel (their cross section is 20x30 mm, and the length is 120 cm). The tip of the crossbar is made of plastic, which does not help the strength of the structure. Advantages:
- durable clamps and construction;
- fits most vehicles;
- adapters are equipped with rubber gaskets (smooth and soft contact with the body);
- height;
- load capacity of 75 kg.
Trunk Inter Aerostar R-77i
The trunk of the Inter Aerostar R-77i has a metal clip, additionally fixed with bolts, which eliminates the breakage of the fasteners. To protect the flat surface of the roof and body from scratches, rubber pads are used.
The crossbar is suitable for low rails, and the streamlined bars are characterized as aerodynamic. Suitable for vehicles with the following parameters:
- external space between rails from 112 to 117,5 cm;
- distance along the back arc 110-115 cm.
The design does not make a rumble and extraneous noise even at high speeds. You can install a lock for the safety of the cargo. Wear resistance is supported by an anodized finish that resists corrosion.
Average in price
More expensive trunks have an extended list of advantages in relation to budget ones.
The rating of car roof racks at an average price is opened by the manufacturer Yakima. The WHISPBAR WB750 model is characterized as one of the safest. Reliability is confirmed by an international certificate and ongoing tests. Advantages:
- aerodynamics are maintained at high speeds;
- wear;
- nice design;
- volume.
The Magnum 420 is superior in terms of length and load capacity. Recommended for family cars or lovers of outdoor recreation. The coating of the structure is protected from corrosion, the aerodynamics are close to the premium class. The trunk got into the review due to the favorable combination of features and price.
Premium class
This is one of the best roof racks in all respects, and the leadership in this segment rightfully belongs to the Thule brand.
Thule Motion Sport trunk
The high cost of a Thule Motion Sport roof rack is justified by its practicality and durability. Quality is confirmed by ISO certification, versatility is ensured by the presence of additional components. Other benefits:
- spaciousness;
- engineering study;
- there are few analogues in terms of the quality of construction and materials;
- load capacity makes the trunk versatile.
Thule Motion 800 is a Swiss development released in 2013. She held the first places in the ratings for three years due to quality and safety standards. Among all the tests, the model showed average results only when checking operation in low temperatures.
The temperature effect affected the operation of the locks, the coating cracked. Under other operating conditions, it manifests itself as a leader in the premium class.
What to look for when buying
The choice is influenced by the cost of the roof rack of the car and its appearance. The device must comply with safety standards. Criteria based on:
- type of transported cargo;
- dimensions and purpose (SUVs, cars, buses, trucks, other vehicles);
- volume indicator;
- reliability of fasteners, their number;
- safety for the roof, body covering;
- universality (some models are relevant only for specific car brands);
- aerodynamic indicators (affects fuel consumption, vehicle controllability).
Comparison and selection according to these indicators will help to make a choice in a particular case. Prices should also be examined in detail, as some offers perform better in terms of quality and value.
Some roof racks must be registered. If you do not draw up documents in the traffic police, penalties up to 500 rubles can be applied to the driver. or the removal of the vehicle to the impound. Documents do not need to be drawn up if regular fasteners are used and it is possible to remove the trunk from the car - then it qualifies as a transported cargo and is not subject to a fine.
The compiled rating is relevant for 2020, takes into account the developments of domestic and foreign companies. Representatives of Switzerland and Sweden are leading in the production of trunks.
