Reddit mentions: The best cargo bars

I have these roof bars on my 2012 Mazda3 hatch, and I'm happy with it. Price is way cheaper than the Mazda OEM bars. Some wind noise beginning at 40mph, but if you listen to music, it's easily tuned out.

As for the bike rack, you've got a lot of options here, but brand wise you're probably looking at either Thule or Yakima. I went with the Yakima Forklift and I love it. As long as you can easily pop off your front wheel, this is fast and extremely stable (plus if you buy the additional locking mechanism for like $20, the skewer key-locks your fork in place). You can't go wrong with Thule either, but I find Yakima is typically cheaper for a similar product.

Aero bars will be quieter than other shapes. You may want to think about locking them, which will cost you extra. Load capacity might be slightly higher for round or square bars than aero bars. It looks like the OEM bars for '14-'15 can easily be adjusted for your 2017. Bonus: they're available on amazon! https://www.amazon.com/SUBARU-2014-FORESTER-CROSSBAR-SET-AERO/dp/B00CHSTGKI

edit: rackattack is a good place to find what will fit. They carry the big names (Thule, Yakima, etc.). If you're looking for something you can use for years to come, I'd recommend the major brands. Fit, finish, and function will all be better.

Try these:

https://www.amazon.com/Evo-QR-Fork-Mount-Carrier/dp/B004L3UBME/ref=sr_1_14?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1473885649&sr=1-14&refinements=p_n_format_browse-bin%3A491462011

you can mount several different ways, but they have bolt holes, so many people mount on the truck lip, or even the bed cover if it can support the weight of the bikes.

Also, maybe that front diamond cover lid, what is inside? It could be a good mounting point for the fork mounts as you could get an easy mounting access and it would keep the bikes in the cars draft and out of the way for the most part.

There are also roof bar options out there:

https://www.amazon.com/Rhino-Rack-DH1500S-DK150-Multi-Rack-System/dp/B009FS4UHC/

just an example, make sure it would fit ...

First real usage tomorrow with this setup, but I hauled 2 bikes on it to test it and hit speed bumps etc. and it handled them beautifully. Not to mention this entire solution was a solid $40, and probably could’ve been cheaper if I had shopped more carefully.

For anyone else trying this, do it! Super easy to setup.
Here are the items:
Fork Mounts (Comes with 2)

Keeper 05059 Ratcheting Cargo Bar

I bought these:
Roof Racks Fits 2017-2018 Jeep... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J33W94F?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I wouldn’t recommend them though. There’s plenty of other options. I don’t recommend them because mounting holes were off and needed filing to fit properly. Also, the lack of instructions made it 2 full hours of pain and agony. I bought them because I didn’t want to pay MOPAR’s huge price tag to save for the Yakima Loadwarrior. It works fine, but needed work and some “good ol’ fashioned” elbow grease.

I can’t be a reviewer of this product because I don’t own them, but they look like a better option. If you get anything, look at these:
BRIGHTLINES 2018-2019 Jeep Compass Roof Rack Crossbars https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07LGFG7JD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_-Q.QCbWXSSJHS

Good luck!

Yeah no problem, let me know if you have anymore questions, I’m very happy with everything listed here...

ROOF RACK:

The OEM rack is only supposed to hold up to around 100lbs, which is why I bought this after market version instead, it holds up to 150lbs (each of my yaks weigh 70lbs). Took less than an hour to install.

Vesul Black Luggage Carrier Cargo Roof Rack Rails Side Crossbars Cross Bars Compatible with Toyota Tacoma 2005-2018 2019 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N1F7FVD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dA0qDbW3N7B73

J HOOKS:

I chose these clips because they collapse and because of the compatibility with the loading rails I’ve listed below.

Malone Downloader 2-Pack with SpeedLines (Two Sets of Malone Downloader J-Style Universal Car Racks) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078HY1HWD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Iu0qDb17QNC28

LOADING RAILS

If I had a car, I wouldn’t have bought these, but getting 70lb kayaks onto the roof of the truck isn’t easy by myself, and I’m 6ft. I was surprised how well they worked, a little pricey but def worth every penny IMO.

Malone Telos XL Load Assist Module, MPG351-XL https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078GQG5WW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GG0qDbG5VYPFY

Good luck!

We just bought a 2018 XLE. Can’t say enough good things about the weathertech mats. They are expensive but I find they make the interior so much easier to clean. Ours was a rental car so it didn’t even come with the OEM mats. They have been a standard item on all my vehicles for awhile now.

Also bought these cheapo crossbars. BRIGHTLINES 2013-2018 Toyota Rav4 Cross Bars Roof Racks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IQF636Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_j-60CbR125CDG

They are fairly sturdy if you get everything tightened down but I wouldn’t trust a ton of weight on them (just needs to carry a surfboard or two for me). Indistinguishable from the Toyota bars in look.

But the best accessory has to be this silly little thing
Vehicle OCD - Center Console Organizer for Toyota RAV4 (LE, XLE, Adventure ONLY) (2013-2018) - Made in USA https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XB82MI6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_Ua70Cb5XJ858W

Keeps that center console from becoming a mess.

Does your Grand Cherokee have the side rails that run along the edges of the roof but not across? If yes - I recently bought this set of cross bars from amazon and an really happy with them. I also have a GC and they are the easiest and most secure cross bars I’ve ever installed.

Crossbars are: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0100WNVLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_iG6JAbY647309

Ski / snowboard rack: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K5HSNL0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_rH6JAbMN60AW2

I went with the Subaru part number on the Thule rack, just because I knew it was the size I wanted. You can definitely find cheaper / similar racks.

The crossbars are pretty generic too. You can probably find these for even half of this price. I thought $100 shipped was pretty good at the time!

Neither are actually Renegade specific.

Edit: Reason I went with the Subaru Thule part number. Everything has to match!

I have a 2003 4runner so its slightly bigger than your 3rd gen. My wife and I each have 10' entry level sit in rec kayaks. I successfully mount and carry both on the factory roof rack with 2 pairs of cheap Amazon J hooks. I can lift and mount the kayaks solo but its much easy with two people. I put 2 ratcheting tie straps over the kayaks securing them to the cross bars and side rails (not the J hooks). I use a bow and stern lines attached to the front recovery loops and rear hitch. It works well. If I were doing longer distance driving (200+ miles) with the kayaks I would probably get some higher grade J Hooks.

Here is the 2 Pairs of J Hooks (thats 4 total) for about $60.
Link

I bought an aftermarker set of cross rail for my wife's Odyessy and another set of J Hooks. I mount and carry them the same way. The van is newer and and cleaners so we only use it for the drop off vehicle. Here is the after market cross rails (that also fit my 4runner) Link

I hadn't even looked at OEM but everyone seems to recommend them! This is very helpful in my decision. Thank you. Is this basically what you have?

I think that's a great idea, if the drywall support bar doesn't work, look at cargo dividers as well. They're strong and cheap.

I'm not sure about 2010, but I got a Rola roof rack for my '12. Works pretty well. I recommend getting a wind-deflector though..

I bought these 49.75" bars for my '15 TH and they fit pretty perfectly (width-wise) with maybe an inch extra on either side.

Ratcheting cargo bars can be used to create a temporary support between the walls:

https://www.amazon.com/Reese-Explore-1390600-Ratcheting-Cargo/dp/B01414B9HI

You can then hang whatever you want off them to help muffle the sound. The thicker the material, the better the sound reduction.

The cheaper options I went with are:

AUXMART Roof Rack Cross Bars for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072NBXB2N?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

OxGord Roof Rack Cargo Carrier -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072KLJ4FR?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I bought them to put a tire on top. Noisy? Yeah. Lose a couple MPG? Yes. Looks AWESOME? ABSOLUTELY!

Got these for my 2019. Have had zero problems. I keep a Yakima Loadwarrior attached all the time. They look like the OEM ones. I don’t notice any additional noise with them on compared to when they were off. I do notice noise with the sunroof open, but that’s largely attributed to the cargo basket, not the rails themself. Would highly recommend if you’re looking for the OEM look, but want to save some money.

BRIGHTLINES 2018 Subaru Crosstrek & 2017-2018 Impreza Aero Crossbars Roof Racks

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079K69B5L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_OCsVBbM4V8N6Q

ROLA 59726 Removable Mount GTX... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HBM0XO?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Fits really well and is super sturdy, does create a lot of wind noise. Fairing recommended

Thanks!

I bought these bars from a friend.

And I bought a Rola rack at a local truck supply store. Sorry...not sure which model specifically.

These cross bars and these yak holders. Really recommend the yak holders as they have held up great over a year now.

I bought this combo for our Crosstrek...

BRIGHTLINES 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek & 2017-2019 Impreza Aero Crossbars Roof Racks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079K69B5L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_3hjKDb66H3WE3

AA Products 2 Pair J-Bar Rack for Kayak Carrier Canoe Boat Paddle Board Surfboard Roof Top Mount on Car SUV Truck Crossbar with 16 Ft Ratchet Lashing Straps https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06VWCPJ7T/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_3ijKDbGC73AEJ

The bars are Rock solid perfect fit with zero noise. Not sure if they make them for your Rav.

Topline Autopart Universal 50" Window Frame Style Aluminum Roof Rack Rail Cross Bars frc (Silver) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JKD6P48/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LcmYCbEKE3PFG
it fits pretty well, used some double sided tape on the contact points just to be safe

I've been looking as well and I'm considering these: https://www.amazon.com/Mophorn-Baggage-Locking-Crossbars-2015-2017/product-reviews/B072JDKZ8F/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_hist_4?ie=UTF8&filterByStar=four_star&reviewerType=all_reviews#reviews-filter-bar

Reviews say they also make a little noise at 40-55 mph but one reviewer said you can cut the noise considerably by wrapping a cord around the front crossbar to cut the wind.

My preference is finding black long bars that fit the flush side rails of the Niro instead of the usual shorter ones. I'm hoping to fit a small cargo carrier alongside the kayak.

Heininger 4016 HitchMate Cargo Stabilizer Bar for Full-Size Trucks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FOUB8M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_x4m2Cb4NSP04H

I have had mine with a 09 ranger and 2017 f150, super useful.

Thanks! It's this Rola roof rack I found on Amazon. Had good reviews, and I managed to snag it for $160.

Link

almost, my girlfriend got me these, and i love em! very sturdy

http://www.amazon.com/Rola-59833-Mazda-Hatchback-Cross/dp/B004R31XY8/ref=pd_sim_sbs_auto_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=1ABGPJAG82J25NN9ZRNN

i'd post a photo of my mazda3 with them but it's not any better than what the picture is on that link, they look good though!

This is the one I run on mine. It fits well and looks nice. But the knobs whistle quite a bit. This can be solved with a bit of hot glue.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002M3KSK0/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have the BRIGHTLINES roof rack on Amazon and love it. Just took a 1,700 mile round trip road trip with a cargo basket attached to it with zero issues. Only $100 too.

https://www.amazon.com/2011-2017-Grand-Cherokee-Crossbars-Luggage/dp/B008RDL78G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491493488&sr=8-1&keywords=brightlines+roof+rack

Thank you :) The rack is this one by Subaru, I'm not sure on the crossbars but they look exactly like these.

I think the fork mount racks are generally considered 'more sturdy'. That said, I love my setup and the convenience of not having to take the front wheel off. Subaru Crossbars, Inno Rack , and Fairing. On a 2011 WRX sedan.

This is the one I got.

It's $42 more but Brightlines isn't a Subaru brand I've ever heard of and could be a cheap knock off, there also aren't any pictures. It'd be worth sending them a message to ask them what their warranty and return policy is just in case, but from a warranty and durability perspective I'd recommend the Subaru brand ones, and they're cheaper than what you'll find with Thule IMO.

Did you know Amazon will donate a portion of every purchase if you shop by going to smile.amazon.com instead? Over $50,000,000 has been raised for charity - all you need to do is change the URL!

Here are your smile-ified links:

https://smile.amazon.com/59726-Removable-Mount-Hyundai-Veloster/dp/B008HBM0XO/ref=sr_1_1

---

^^i'm ^^a ^^friendly bot

I made this guide some time ago that goes over several options, including using clamps or drop ceiling mounts, depending on your specific setup. Mounting solutions start at just a few dollars per Lighthouse but can add up if you use nicer parts, such as the clamps.

Another option I've started using in a specific room is a ratcheting cargo bar. This is normally used in a truck bed but you can mount it vertically on a windowsill and then use a clamp and a mini ball head to aim the Lighthouses wherever you want.

Note that there are cheaper versions of almost everything I've linked. However, I linked what I actually use because they will last.

I grabbed the Brightlines off Amazon when they were on sale for $70 a few months ago. They look identical to the OEM Aero bars, and even with the moonroof open, I honestly can't tell an audible difference between having them mounted or not.

They're the OEM racks for 08-11 Impreza, 12+ Fits STI and WRX only I believe. I've actually got a set sitting here from my old Impreza if you're interested in buying them. Here they are on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Subaru-Impreza-Roof-Rack-Carrier/dp/B004HGXMYE

Bought these in Jan. Easy as hell to install (ignore the reviews, they put better instructions and label everything with easy peel stickers not because of the bad reviews). They're solid too.

2011-2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Crossbars Roof Luggage Racks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008RDL78G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_xboESWD3Nxlwq

I got the AERO Cross Bars from Amazon for $150 and installed them myself. Came with a tool and instructions to tighten the bars to the rails. Really easy process

There are a couple great videos on YouTube that show the crossbars you will need and how to install a cargo basket (not a box, but same idea applies).

Video 1 - Crossbar Installation

Video 2 - Cargo Basket Installation

These or these work really well, pair with two camera clamps like these, and you're good to go. (I use the Harbor Freight ones, but both should be fine)

​

Pro-tip: Point the ratcheting portion down so you're pushing the main pole up, this maximizes base station height, and minimizes vibration.

Apex RLB-2301 Universal Roof... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002M3KSK0?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Here’s a link to the set I’m using currently, there’s some added wind noise, but it’s not to bad, and with my roof basket I knew there would be a lot of wind noise anyways, but with the sunroof shade closed it’s not noticeable at all

Amazon!

BRIGHTLINES 2018 Subaru Crosstrek & 2017-2018 Impreza Aero Crossbars Roof Racks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079K69B5L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_K4mZBbGT8EV6B

ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004R34HDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_e5mZBbAPW3AVJ

Not sure about the ski carrier, but I've been eyeing these aftermarket OEM clone crossbars on amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N3446NC

They are a bit cheaper than the buying from the dealer, and look to be identical.

I use the brand ROLA for the roof racks for my2012 sedan. I've had them for almost two years and not one single problem. This one would probably work for your vehicle.

I got these off Amazon. They're the OEM factory aero bars, but way less expensive.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006QC36K2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008RDL78G?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_title

Rola 59726 Roof Rack for Hyundai Veloster https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B008HBM0XO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_-gA5yb8YN9873

BRIGHTLINES 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek & 2017-2019 Impreza Aero Crossbars Roof Racks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079K69B5L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Kuh3Cb9G1BQD6

Bought these a month ago, never placed anything on them, just rested on the car.

Reese Explore 1390600 40" x 70" Ratcheting Cargo Bar https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01414B9HI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_XmmbgXTVK3zNl

Bought it to keep stuff tight against the seats in my old suv. It ratchets tight. I’ve never had it pop out or even move while driving on or off road

Have you considered a roof rack?

https://www.amazon.com/59726-Removable-Mount-Hyundai-Veloster/dp/B008HBM0XO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502331319&sr=8-1&keywords=veloster+roof+rack

BRIGHTLINES 2018-2019 Jeep Compass Roof Rack Crossbars https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07LGFG7JD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_H8FYDb8XMZTM1

https://www.amazon.com/Subaru-Impreza-Roof-Rack-Carrier/dp/B004HGXMYE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511812242&sr=8-1&keywords=subaru+roof+rack+2013+wrx




https://www.amazon.com/Yakima-ForkLift-Fork-Mount-Rooftop/dp/B001PRV7H2/ref=sr_1_13?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1511812271&sr=1-13&keywords=bike+roof+rack

Racks are ROLA 59726, JBars are TMS J-Bars

Front is tied down to a SoCal Tow Hook. Rear tied to the tow-hook area on the rear drivers-side. Slammed it in the trunk for the pic as it was blowing in the wind.

These are what I got, knockoffs but every it as identical and quality as the Subaru ones https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00N3446NC/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484941095&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=forester+cross+bars&dpPl=1&dpID=41Bs4jKXBFL&ref=plSrch

I haven’t yet seen a roof basket that doesn’t require crossbars.

I’ve got the Brightlines crossbars, which were $99 US. I’m not sure what shipping would cost to Canada. Check for eBay sellers too.

Thule's guide doesn't give me a solution, maybe they discontinued the product?

Yakima looks good but damn they are expensive.

OEMs are cheap and will do what I want. Probably go with these: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HGXMYE/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2LIUC6TMTLQAD

I can just lash the skis to the roof with bungies or tie-downs.

Most frames will accommodate a commonly available cargo bar to hold plywood inside of the frame. This is just a quick example I found but these are used in semi trailers all the time and you can get ones specced where the failure limit would likely be beyond the surrounding structure itself. It's more expensive than drilling but they can be re-used, and are handy for many other things. It might even be possible to install inside of windows mark-free with rags on the contact pads. Usually if it isn't a structural modification, and it does not damage the property, they cannot do anything about it. It also makes it very clear it was the landlord being an asshat that led to his windows being broken, not anything LAOP did.