There are several different types of car racks to choose from, each suited to carrying different types of cargo. The most common types include:
Roof Racks - Roof racks are rails that attach directly to the roof of your vehicle. They provide one of the largest total cargo capacities as multiple accessories can be added across the roof. Some downsides are that roof racks can impact fuel efficiency slightly and accessing roof-mounted items can be more difficult. However, they are versatile and allow transportation of a variety of bulky items like kayaks, bicycles, or skis that may not fit inside the vehicle.
Hitch Mounts - Hitch mounts install into your vehicle's tow hitch receiver and provide secure mounting points for racks and accessories higher than the roof would allow but without compromising fuel economy. Most common hitch mount accessories include bike racks, cargo carriers, and ski and snowboard racks. Check your vehicle's towing capacity before adding a hitch-mounted rack and load.
Trunk Mounts - Trunk mounts fit into a vehicle's trunk opening and provide lower profile storage capacity compared to roof or hitch mounts. Common items suited for trunk mounts include ski/snowboard carriers, bicycle trunk racks, and small cargo baskets or bags. They keep items lower and potentially more protected than roof or hitch mounts.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
When choosing the best type of Car Racks for your needs, consider several important factors:
Vehicle Compatibility - Make sure to verify a specific car rack model's fitment for your make/model/year of vehicle. Rack attachment points vary.
Cargo Type - What items will you most commonly carry? Bikes, watercraft, luggage, etc. Choose a rack best suited for your cargo dimensions.
Loading Height - Higher racks have more clearance but affect handling/MPG. Lower is easier to access but limits large item capacity.
Budget - Racks range greatly in price. Consider quality, warranty, and your intended frequency of use.
Aesthetics - Roof racks can impact look. Less visible options include hitch or trunk mounts.
Security - How the rack and your cargo attaches/locks matters for safety and anti-theft protection.
Ease of Use - In/out access and how fast/easy items load should factor into your decision.
With the right research, you can select a quality car rack tailored for your vehicle and transport needs. Proper installation is also important for safety and rack performance.
Roof Rack Accessory Options
Beyond the roof rack base, there are many popular add-on accessories to further expand your carrying abilities:
Bike Racks - Provide secure, upright bike transport. Choose frame-type or wheel-on racks based on bike style and your needs.
Cargo Baskets - Open-top carriers for boxes, luggage, and other smaller loads. Mesh or solid side versions available.
Kayak/Canoe Carriers - Custom fit carriers secure watercraft safely upright on roof or vehicles.
Ski/Snowboard Racks - Fold-down or roof rail mounted racks securely hold multiple sets of equipment.
Roof Boxes - Weatherproof, lockable storage with increased capacity compared to baskets or trays.
Flag Mounts - Extendable poles with flags alert drivers you have a roof load for increased safety.
Crossbars or Feet additions - Expand basic roof racks to allow mounting accessories cross vehicle or at each corner.
With the right mix of roof rack base and addons, you gain unmatched total-top carrying power for your vehicle and active outdoor lifestyle.
Maintenance for Maximum Performance
To ensure your roof rack system functions properly during use and keeps your vehicle and cargo safe, basic upkeep and maintenance is important:
Inspect fully before/after each use. Look for any loose fittings, rust, or cracks in racks or accessories.
Keep contact points like bolts, bars, brackets clean and free of debris or corrosion buildup.
Periodically check tightness of all mounting fittings to the vehicle according to rack manufacturer guidelines.
Prevent paint damage or corrosion on vehicle with rubber stripping where roof contacts metal racks.
Apply a premium car wax or protectant to racks to maintain their luster and resist water spotting over time.
Store indoors or well-covered when not in use. Never leave racks loaded for long periods if not actively transporting.
With the right car rack for your needs, routine maintenance, and safety practices, you'll enjoy hassle-free transportation of toys, gear and cargo wherever your adventures lead.
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