by Types of Car Racks
There are several different types of luggage rack available in the market to suit different cargo needs. The most common types are:
Roof Racks: Roof racks are mounted on the roof of the car and are ideal for carrying bulky luggage, bikes, skis, kayaks etc. They come in both fixed and removable options. Fixed roof racks are mounted permanently while removable ones can be taken off when not in use.
Rear Mounted Racks: Rear mounted racks are installed on the rear door or tailgate of SUVs and hatchbacks. They are best suited for carrying lighter loads like luggage bags. Rear Car Racks leave the entire roof space free for other uses.
Tow Ball Mounts: Tow ball racks are mounted to the tow hitch receiver of vehicles. They are suitable for transporting bikes, small boats and other recreational equipment. Tow ball racks don’t affect roof or rear space.
Factors to Consider When Buying Car Racks
When choosing the right car rack, there are several factors to keep in mind:
Load Capacity: Consider your cargo size and weight and buy a Car Rack that can support it safely. Overloading poses risks.
Vehicle Type: Check rack designs compatible with your vehicle – roof, rear door, hitch etc. Consider vehicle profile and clearance points.
Ease of Use: Opt for a rack that is easy to install, load and remove cargo from. Removable racks provide better access.
Material: Alloy steel and composite plastic are common materials. Choose a corrosion-resistant material suitable for your climate.
Aero-Profile: Streamlined, low profile racks have less wind noise and drag. Higher profile ones carry more but affect mileage.
Safety & Security: Look for secure lockable fittings and load bars. Anti-sway/shake features add stability during high speeds.
Budget: Price depends on quality, brand, features. Compare options from reputed brands in your budget.
Roof Rack Buying Tips
For roof racks, also consider:
Cross Bar Space: Standard cross bars are 50-100cm apart. Choose spacing suited for your item width.
Cross Bar Type: Most use adjustable aerodynamic bars but some prefer fixed streamlined style.
Fit: Compatible with your vehicle’s roof rails or direct to roof mounts. Adjustable feet grip varied roof shapes firmly.
Aero Profile: More streamlined racks have less noise and drag penalty. Sleek ones blend with vehicle silhouette.
Load Capacity: Roof strength, not just rack’s. Distribute weight evenly across bars & consider vehicle payload limit.
Seal: Look for seals between racks and rails to prevent leaks into vehicle interiors.
Ease of Loading: Access, safety locks and loading at height ergonomics vary by rack design.
Materials for Cross Bars: Premium ones use composite or forged alloy for strength, stiffness and corrosion resistance.
Top Racks to Consider
Based on reviews, here are some top-rated options to consider from leading brands:
Thule Force XT: Aerodynamic, easy to use and lockable fit for most vehicles. Rated for 165 lbs (75 kg) max load.
Yakima HighRoad: Low-profile square load bars suit bikes, kayaks etc. Versatile tilt for rear access. 165 lbs capacity.
Inno Racks 91146: Budget-friendly roof rack suitable for sedans, hatchbacks. Aluminium construction supports 110 lbs.
Rhino-Rack Vortex: Heavy-duty rack for SUVs, trucks & 4x4s. Fully adjustable cross bars carry 220 lbs of gear.
Volk Racing 4224 PRO Series: Premium hi-capacity basket-style rack ideal for pickup trucks. Holds 330-660 lbs of tools, material etc.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. LinkedIn
