Tag Archives: roof rack accessories
We Test the BrightLines 53″ Crossbars: Worth the Wind?
We Test the BrightLines 53" Crossbars: Worth the Wind?
After spending three weeks with the BrightLines 53" All Black Universal Crossbars, we've put these roof racks through their paces. Installation on our test SUV's raised rails took us about 20 minutes with no special tools required. The all-black finish complements most vehicles nicely, though we did notice some minor scratching after loading our kayaks.
Wind noise was our biggest concern, and we found it noticeable but not overwhelming at highway speeds. When unloaded, there's a subtle whistle above 65 mph. The crossbars handled our 70-pound kayak load without flexing, and the included locks provided decent security for our gear.
For around $100, these racks offer solid value compared to vehicle-specific OEM options that can cost twice as much. We'll be examining durability over the long term, but our initial impression is positive despite the wind noise trade-off.
Our Road Test: Thule Evo Flush Rail Foot Pack Review
Our Road Test: Thule Evo Flush Rail Foot Pack Review
After putting the Thule Evo Flush Rail Foot Pack through its paces over the past month, we're impressed with its performance and versatility. This sleek mounting system integrates seamlessly with vehicles featuring flush rails, providing a secure foundation for various Thule roof rack accessories.
We particularly appreciated the tool-free installation process, which took us less than 30 minutes from unboxing to completion. The low-profile design significantly reduced wind noise during our highway testing compared to previous rack systems we've used.
The foot pack's robust construction inspires confidence, easily supporting our loaded cargo box during a recent weekend camping trip. The locking mechanism adds welcome security when parking in public areas.
While the price point is premium, we believe the durability and seamless integration with Thule's ecosystem makes this foot pack a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.
We Tested the iBirdie XXL Rooftop Cargo Carrier: Here’s What We Discovered
We Tested the iBirdie XXL Rooftop Cargo Carrier: Here's What We Discovered
After three weeks of testing the iBirdie Roof Rack Cargo Carrier on various road trips, we're impressed with its massive 32.1 cubic feet capacity. This soft-shell carrier easily accommodated luggage for our family of five, with room to spare for camping gear.
The 1200D fabric proved genuinely waterproof during an unexpected thunderstorm, keeping our belongings completely dry. We appreciated the included anti-slip mat which prevented shifting, even on winding mountain roads.
Installation was straightforward on both our SUV with roof rails and sedan without dedicated racks, thanks to the versatile door hook system. The 60x37x25 inch dimensions provided ample space without excessively impacting fuel economy.
Our only minor complaint was some wind noise at highway speeds, though that's expected with any rooftop carrier. Overall, the iBirdie offers exceptional storage capacity and weather protection at a competitive price point.
