Requires a base roof rack.
Can you put a roof rack on any car.
Keep in mind that the primary reason for purchasing a roof rack of this type is because your car doesn t have existing mounting points.
If your car already has factory built rails or tracks on the roof you ll need to install a roof rack that has crossbars which connect to the existing side rails.
One of the simplest ways to install roof racks on the top of your car is to use a factory made template which is available in the form of pre drilled holes.
These incorporate removable and permanent mount designs and some have rails fix points or take a clamp mount system.
However since most modern cars do not have gutters most roof racks are designed for cars without them.
A roof rack is on top of the vehicle and is used for extra storage space to carry large items such as kayaks canoes luggage or big containers.
Max weight capacity of 50lbs or less so generally not e bike friendly.
Roof racks do not come standard on all vehicles so if you are looking to purchase a car a roof rack may be something to consider if you need extra storage space.
More than likely you can take the rack off one vehicle and put it on another with a rain gutter.
Make sure you get one and use it for such an installation.
On the other end of the size scale most compact cars won t accommodate a roof rack which makes this option a no go.
Possible to carry any bike on any vehicle.
That said for full sized cars a roof rack is the way to go.
Keeps your trunk free unobstructed.
Can reduce the amount of road spray hitting your bike.
A roof rack is considered a vehicle modification and as with any other modification installing one could affect your eligibility for car insurance coverage or alter the type of coverage you need.
If you have a naked roof no rails or tracks you ll need a roof rack that clamps around the door jams.
Can be difficult to load.
Although many cars and suvs come with basic roof racks standard if your car isn t equipped yet you can install one yourself.
While roof rack installation for naked roof models takes more work it will work with nearly any vehicle which also makes it the most versatile choice available.
Place it at the side of the rail and drill a hole directly into your car s roof top using an electric drill.
On trucks and suvs the roof can be relatively high off the ground which makes it a pain to load and unload your bikes.