Whats the difference between roof bars and roof rails?
When it comes to transporting gear on your vehicle, understanding the differences between roof bars and roof rails is essential. Both options provide a means to carry additional items, but they serve different purposes and have distinct features. In this article, we will explore these differences to help you make an informed decision for your vehicle's needs.
What Are Roof Rails?
Roof rails are the long, horizontal bars that run along the length of your vehicle's roof. They are typically integrated into the vehicle's design and provide a sturdy base for attaching various accessories. Roof rails are often found on SUVs and crossovers, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
What Are Roof Bars?
Roof bars, on the other hand, are removable crossbars that can be mounted onto roof rails. They are designed to provide a secure platform for carrying items such as bikes, kayaks, or cargo boxes. Roof bars can be adjusted to fit different widths and are often made from lightweight materials for easy handling.
Key Differences
- Functionality: Roof rails serve as a permanent fixture on the vehicle, while roof bars are typically removable and adjustable.
- Installation: Roof rails are usually factory-installed, whereas roof bars can be added or removed as needed.
- Load Capacity: Roof rails can support a greater weight when combined with roof bars, making them ideal for heavier loads.
- Versatility: Roof bars offer more versatility since they can be used with various attachments for different types of gear.
Conclusion
In summary, while both roof bars and roof rails are essential for transporting gear on your vehicle, they serve different purposes. Roof rails provide a permanent structure for mounting accessories, while roof bars offer flexibility and adaptability for various transportation needs. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right option for your vehicle and ensure safe and efficient transport of your belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need roof rails for roof racks?
Yes, you should be fine without purchasing cross rails, though it's still advisable to prevent damage to the roof. Just ensure to verify the dimensions of the item you're considering.
Can you fit roof bars to a car without roof rails?
About Roof Bars Vehicle without Roof Rails
Even if you don't have roof bars, you still have the option to create additional storage space on top of your car with the help of specialist roof bars, designed specifically for vehicles without roof rails.
Can you attach a roof rack to roof rails?
Broadly speaking, roof rails typically come in two configurations: Flush: These rails sit flush with the surface of the car's roof. They often provide attachment points for roof racks — which you'll learn about shortly — but generally involve additional components and containers for carrying gear.
What are roof bars used for?
What are roof bars? Roof bars fit onto the roof of your vehicle, using a variety of connecting systems. They're ideal if you're a regular camper, cyclist, or just need to transport bulky items, as they allow you to move your bike, tents, bags and other equipment out of the boot or back seat and onto the roof .
What are roof rails on a car called?
Roof racks and roof bars are like car roof rails in that they both allow you to transport goods on the roof of your car. While they offer a similar function, they also feature many differences.
What's the difference between roof bars and roof rails?
Basically, the key difference between these two is the direction that they're mounted on the roof of your vehicle. Roof rails run along the length of your car's roof, whilst roof racks are mounted from door to door across your roof.
Are roof rails worth it?
Are Roof Rails Worth It? Yes, roof rails are valuable for those needing extra storage. They help transport luggage and equipment securely, especially for long trips or outdoor activities.
Is it OK to leave roof bars on car?
While keeping the roof rack on the car when not in use is okay, vibrations can loosen fixtures so keeping them lubricated will help.
What happens if your car doesn't have roof rails?
Various roof rack options are designed for cars without factory-installed rails, including clamp-on roof racks, gutter-mounted roof racks, and door jamb-mounted roof racks. These choices offer safe mounting locations for various car makes and roof shapes.
What is the purpose of roof rails?
Roof rails, affixed to the top edges of your car, serve as the base for mounting a roof rack – an accessory that allows you to carry extra luggage securely. Whether it's that extra suitcase for your long family vacation or camping gear for your weekend getaway, roof rails can make travelling hassle-free.
