Making plans for your upcoming adventure becomes simpler when you are confident that transporting all your gear will be effortless. By equipping your vehicle with the right roof bar, you can conveniently carry your bike, kayak, additional equipment, and even a rooftop tent along with you.
Experienced professional from Enowl have provided us with a comprehensive list of 9 essential factors to consider when shopping for a roof bar. Their roof bars are crafted to accommodate various types of trips, whether it's a weekend camping getaway or an extensive overland journey lasting for weeks. They recognize the challenges of traveling with a family and the need for ample space to accommodate everyone's gear.
1. Consider the Weight
Opting for strength without unnecessary weight is crucial when selecting a roof bar. While many roof bars are bulky and constructed from heavy materials like steel, you don't have to compromise strength to achieve a lighter load. By choosing a meticulously designed, all-aluminum roof bar, you can enjoy a weight reduction of approximately 30 percent compared to steel, while still benefiting from enhanced strength and increased load-carrying capacity.
2. Select a Modular Type
Opting for a modular roof bar provides the advantage of effortless assembly and the flexibility to customize it for various purposes. With the ability to incorporate bar slats, you can construct a complete platform, replace damaged parts, and even add accessories such as expedition rails. This adaptability ensures that the roof bar can easily accommodate your changing needs and requirements at any given time.
3. The Accessory Lineup
Opting for a versatile roof bar that serves multiple purposes is ideal. By selecting a roof bar with a wide range of compatible accessories, you unlock limitless adventure possibilities. It is essential to ensure that your roof bar can accommodate mounts for various items such as water and fuel cans, rooftop tents, bikes, skis, surfboards, axes, canoes/kayaks, and anything else you might require for your expeditions. This adaptability allows you to be fully equipped for any adventure you embark on.
It is important to be cautious when selecting a roof bar, as some companies may intentionally make it challenging to use competitor's accessories with their product. To avoid limiting your options, ensure that you choose a roof bar that does not restrict your ability to incorporate the accessories you truly desire. This way, you can have the freedom to select accessories from various manufacturers and make the most of the options available to you.
4. Strength and Durability
Experiencing a roof bar failure can quickly spoil any trip. Especially when venturing into the backcountry, opting for a cheap roof bar might not withstand the demands. It is crucial to select a roof bar from a manufacturer with expertise in crafting gear that has proven resilience in harsh and challenging conditions. By choosing a roof bar from such a specialized manufacturer, you can have confidence in its durability and reliability, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free adventure.
Don't confine your adventure to paved roads due to concerns about the strength of your roof bar. Incredible camping spots often require access through fire roads and dirt trails. Embrace the opportunity to explore off-road paths, as they unveil some of the finest camping destinations.
5. Choose Low Profile Types
The addition of any item to your roof will inevitably affect both noise levels and fuel economy. However, there is a silver lining: you can minimize these impacts by opting for a low-profile roof bar. It's important to note that "basket-style" roof bars, on the other hand, will have the opposite effect, potentially exacerbating noise and reducing fuel efficiency.
Opting for a lower profile brings a range of benefits when it comes to loading and unloading your gear. It not only provides easier access to low parking garages but also reduces drag, resulting in less noise and improved fuel efficiency. By choosing a roof bar with a lower profile, you can enhance convenience, maneuverability, and overall performance during your adventures.
6. Product Support
Beware of fly-by-night roof bar companies that sell subpar, counterfeit products, taking your money and vanishing into thin air. It is advisable to stick with reputable companies that have been established for decades. These trustworthy companies not only provide high-quality roof bars but also offer live customer service to assist you with installation and address any inquiries you may have regarding performance. The production department of Enowl has more than 30 years of experience in the manufacture of car roof accessories. Their expertise allows you to purchase large quantities of products without any risk.
7. Consult Pros
Take inspiration from your adventure heroes and observe the gear they rely on. Those who demand the toughest gear for their everyday lives have already gone through extensive experimentation to determine what truly works. By observing their choices, you can gain valuable insights into selecting the right equipment for your own adventures.
8. Wide Product Range
When searching for a roof bar, opt for a website that offers a diverse range of roof bars and roof racks suitable for various vehicle models. Having a wide selection of roof bars and accessories provides you with abundant options regardless of the vehicle you drive. Additionally, such a company will possess a deeper understanding of potential solutions to cater to your specific needs. It's worth noting that your roof bar is likely to outlast your current vehicle, making it a viable choice to transfer it to your next set of wheels. This flexibility ensures long-term usability and value for your investment.
9. All Metal
Increased usage of plastic components in both the roof bar and its accessories heightens the risk of failure. Plastic tends to become brittle over time, possesses inferior load ratings, fades under the sun's exposure, and is more prone to breakage. Some companies opt for cheap materials due to their lower cost, but it's important to remember that you often get what you pay for. Taking such risks may not be worthwhile.
Contact Enowl for professional advice on choosing the right roof bars.