Whats the difference between roof rack and roof bars?
Crossbars (often called roof bars) are the horizontal pieces that run from side to side across the roof. A roof rack is the complete carrying system that includes those bars plus rails, feet or clamps, and the attachments you need to secure gear. In everyday use, people sometimes mix the terms, but understanding the distinction helps you shop and install correctly.
What is a roof bar?
Roof bars are the essential horizontal supports that provide a mount point for carriers and gear. They can attach to existing roof rails or clamp directly to the bare roof, depending on the vehicle and product. Here are key points:
- Definition: crossbars that span the width of the vehicle and sit across the roof.
- Purpose: provide a mounting platform for carriers and accessories (bikes, cargo boxes, kayaks, etc.).
- Placement: run left to right across the roof; spacing and alignment matter for load stability and clearance.
- Variants: can be fixed, adjustable, or telescoping; lengths vary to fit different roof widths.
- Compatibility: require matching feet/clamps or tracks; installation instructions vary by model and roof type.
Roof bars are the horizontal backbone of a carrying setup, enabling attachment of various carriers but not a complete, standalone system on most vehicles.
What is a roof rack?
A roof rack generally refers to the full assembly that allows you to carry cargo on the roof. It includes longitudinal rails along the car roof, crossbars, mounting feet or clamps, and the hardware that secures accessories. The main purpose is to provide a stable, secure, and versatile platform for carriers such as bike racks, ski racks, cargo boxes, and kayaks. Here are its core components and capabilities:
- Longitudinal rails: run along the length of the roof to create mounting points for crossbars.
- Crossbars: the horizontal bars that connect to the rails to form a carrying frame.
- Feet or clamps: the hardware that attaches rails to the vehicle, which may be OEM (vehicle-specific) or aftermarket
- Accessory compatibility: designed to accept various carriers (baskets, boxes, bikes, skis, boards, boats).
- Weight rating and safety: carries a specified load limit; improper use can affect handling and fuel economy.
A complete roof rack system offers versatility and modularity, letting you swap in different carriers without replacing the entire setup.
Choosing and installing
When deciding between a simple crossbar setup and a full roof rack, consider your vehicle configuration, the type of gear you transport, and how often you swap items. The following steps help ensure compatibility and safety:
- Check whether your car has fixed roof rails, flush rails, or a bare roof, as this determines mounting options.
- Consult the vehicle manual or rack manufacturer for load limits and compatible fit kits.
- Measure rail spacing and roof width to choose appropriate crossbar length and roof rack components.
- Decide which accessories you’ll use (bikes, kayaks, cargo boxes) to ensure crossbars and feet support the intended gear.
- Consider aerodynamics, wind noise, and security features like locks when selecting a system.
With the right combination of bars, rails, and fittings, you can safely and efficiently carry a wide range of gear while maintaining vehicle stability.
Summary
In short, roof bars are the crossbars that form the horizontal supports on a roof, while a roof rack is the full kit that includes longitudinal rails, crossbars, mounting feet or clamps, and fittings to attach various gear. Understanding the distinction helps you buy the right parts for your vehicle and gear, and install them securely for safe travel.
