Choosing the Best Car Rack for Your Vehicle and Lifestyle
Towbar Racks - On SUVs, crossovers, and larger passenger vehicles, a towbar rack system is a heavy-duty option. It attaches to a towbar/trailer hitch and provides a very stable platform using horizontal bars. Towbar racks can support well over 100 pounds of gear.
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There are several different types of car racks to choose from depending on your transport needs. The most common options include:
Roof Racks - Car Racks are mounted directly to the roof of your vehicle using mounting feet or clamps. They provide a sturdy platform to transport roof-mounted gear like ski boxes, kayaks, or cargo boxes. Roof racks are ubiquitous but do increase drag and reduce fuel efficiency slightly.
Hitch Racks - For passenger vehicles with trailer hitches, hitch racks are a convenient option. They clamp directly to the hitch receiver for transporting bicycles, ski/snowboard racks, or roof-mounted cargo carriers higher than the roof. Hitch racks don't impact fuel economy as much as roof racks.
Towbar Racks - On SUVs, crossovers, and larger passenger vehicles, a towbar rack system is a heavy-duty option. It attaches to a towbar/trailer hitch and provides a very stable platform using horizontal bars. Towbar racks can support well over 100 pounds of gear.
Truck Bed Racks - For pickup trucks, specialty truck bed racks provide attachment points in the truck bed. You can mount a wide variety of gear-specific carriers, from ladders and pipes to kayaks and small boats. Bed racks prevent items from sliding around in the cargo area.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car Rack
Beyond the type of rack, consider these key factors that impact your choice:
Vehicle Type - Trucks need truck racks, while small cars may only accommodate a basic roof rack. Research rack capacity for your vehicle make and model.
Budget - Prices range from $100-$500+, so consider features vs cost. Less expensive options may suffice for light loads.
Cargo Needs - Skis take a tall roof box, while bikes fit on a roof or hitch rack. Match the right carrier to your gear.
Ease of Use - Some racks are simpler to load than others. Consider factors like included attachments, keyless mounting systems, and cargo capacity.
Aerodynamics - Roof racks generate drag; other styles have less impact on fuel efficiency during transport.
Aesthetics - Low-profile designs blend with vehicle aesthetics where visible truck bed racks have a utilitarian look.
Durability - Heavy-duty racks can handle frequent gear transport for years. Basic models suffice for occasional use.
Security - Look for anti-theft features to keep expensive gear firmly attached during transport.
Best Roof Car Racks Options
Thule WingBar Evo Roof Rack - With WingBar load bars, the Evo is adjustable for different roof rail depths. Its One-Touch lever makes mounting/removing a breeze. Rated for 165 lbs static load.
Yakima HighRoad Roof Rack - Easy to load with finger-tight “Twist Lock” arms. Tool-free adjustment works on rails from 1.25-2.0 inches. Supports 165 lbs when properly torqued.
Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Roof Rack - Strong aluminum bars reduce wind noise and maintain a lower profile than some racks. Load capacity is 165 lbs. Quick-click mounting is simple to operate.
Best Hitch Rack Options
Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Hitch Rack - Holds two bikes securely upright with included locks and cradles. Weighs only 37 lbs yet supports 100 lbs total load. Easy to connect without tools.
RockyMounts Monorail 2.0 2 Bike Hitch Rack - Slides open for tool-less loading of bikes. Each bike rests in padded cradles for protection. Rated for 60 lbs per bike (120 lbs total).
Kuat NV 2.0 2 Bike Hitch Rack - Features a tray-style design for simple front-wheel loading. Integrated wheel grips hold bikes tight. Racks fold down during transit for improved visibility and aerodynamics. 120 lbs capacity.
Best Towbar Rack Options
Thule EuroRide XT 3 Bike Towbar Rack - Holds three bikes horizontally with a folding towbar rack design. Advanced security and aerodynamics. Includes lock cores and carrying strap. Rated for 75 lbs per bike.
Inno Racks X-Tray 4 Bike Towbar Rack - Smooth-rolling X-configuration is easy to load. Carries up to 4 bikes (100 lbs each) with integrated mudguards and straps. Folds flat when not in use.
Yakima FullSwing Deluxe 3 Bike Rack - Elevated style glides open for quick loading. Ships with security features and trays to protect frames and components. Slides/folds for storage; fits 2” receiver. 140 lbs capacity.
Final Considerations
When buying a car rack, consider not just your vehicle and cargo needs but also factors like ease of use, security, budget, and how the rack will impact your vehicle over the long run. Higher quality racks last longer but aren't necessary for casual users. Do your research to find the best car rack match for your transport requirements.
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