Roof bars guide

What are car roof bars used for?

Car roof racks are the perfect solution for saving space internally. Transporting bulkier items on the roof of your car allows you to maintain the space in your car. Roof boxes appeal to a wide variety of needs, holiday-goers, sport enthusiasts and traders looking to transport equipment when on the road. Not only do they save space internally, they are designed with a gap between roof and the items being transported ensuring no damage to the roof surface. For those looking for adventure, roof bars can be used to transport bikes, water sport equipment, snow sport equipment and much more. With clever solutions, more than one item can be transported at the same time ensuring that the car is ready for whatever adventure you are taking. 

 

What type of roof bars do I need for my car?

When selecting the right roof bars for your car, there are some things you will need to consider.

  1. Roof type
  2. Loading weight of roof bar and manufacturers recommendations
  3. Aerodynamics 

1. Roof types

Open rail - Your vehicle has side rails which run from the front to rear of the roof and will have a gap between the roof and the rail, usually large enough to fit your fingers through.

 

Closed or flush rail - Similar to open rails, but without the gap. The rail will be touching the car roof along its entire length.

 

Fixed point - Your vehicle has no pre-fitted side rails, but has removable or sliding tabs, which reveal a screw fixing hole. The fixing points will be on the roof, front and back, and on both sides of the car.

 Normal roof - Your vehicle has no rails of fixing points on the roof. Bars for "normal roof" cars fit to the door openings. Sometimes cars have a location hole, which can be seen when the door is open. Some 3 door models allow for the rear bars to fit to the edge of the rear window, but some will require both bars to clamp on the front door opening, meaning the gap between bars may be quite small. If this is the case, we will indicate the distance.

2. Loading weight

Roof bars are rated and tested for a safe load weight, usually between 60kg and 100kg. 

Please check your car manual to see the loading weight for the roof. 

3. Aerodynamics

Aerodynamic roof bars are essential accessories for vehicles, particularly for those looking to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise while carrying loads on the roof. Unlike traditional roof racks, which can create significant aerodynamic drag, these bars are designed with sleek profiles and contoured shapes to minimize air resistance. By cutting through the air more smoothly, they help maintain the vehicle's performance and improve overall handling. Whether you're transporting bikes, kayaks, or luggage, these roof bars offer a blend of functionality and aerodynamic efficiency, enhancing both the aesthetics and performance of your vehicle.

If you are still unsure, or would like any help or advice, please feel free to contact us on info@caradventure or 03330904512 and we will help and guide you into buying the right roof bars to suit your car.