When setting up roof rack crossbars, spacing matters more than you might think. Get it right, and you’ll have a safe, efficient, and stable load. Get it wrong, and you risk damage to your vehicle, or worse, an unsafe trip. The question is, how far apart should roof rack crossbars be?
Understanding Roof Rack Crossbar Spacing
Crossbars are the backbone of your roof rack system, carrying the load and keeping it secure. But how far apart they should be spaced largely depends on what you’re carrying. Typically, spacing ranges between 24 to 36 inches, but each setup is unique.
Importance of Proper Spacing
Too close, and you risk imbalance with certain loads like kayaks or long objects that need even support. Too far apart, and your roof rack loses stability, which could cause items to shift, making your ride unsafe. Research shows that improperly spaced crossbars can lead to an increased risk of load shifting, affecting both fuel efficiency and safety.
If you’re using your roof rack for everyday items such as suitcases or boxes, a distance of around 28 inches is common. A standard roof box, for example, often recommends spacing between 26 and 30 inches.
Factors That Affect Crossbar Spacing
Not all roof racks and vehicles are created equal. Several factors affect how far apart the crossbars should be. These include:
- Type of Load: Long items like canoes, surfboards, or skis will require wider spacing for even support.
- Vehicle Design: Smaller cars might need closer spacing, while SUVs or trucks with longer roofs allow more flexibility in bar placement.
- Manufacturer Guidelines: Always check the specific recommendations provided by your vehicle and rack manufacturer. Many vehicle manuals or roof rack kits will give an exact range for crossbar placement. Follow these instructions to avoid any problems.
Manufacturers like Thule or Yakima often include precise spacing guidelines to help you avoid overloading your roof rack or damaging your vehicle’s roof.
Does Load Distribution Matter?
It absolutely does. When crossbars are spaced correctly, load distribution becomes more efficient. It minimizes strain on individual bars and keeps your load balanced. Research by the Outdoor Industry Association indicates that balancing the load across multiple crossbars reduces wear and tear on both the rack and your vehicle. The closer the weight is to the center of the vehicle, the better your car handles.
Consider the Aerodynamic Drag factor as well. When your crossbars are spaced incorrectly, the load may catch more wind, creating unnecessary drag, which increases fuel consumption. This is more than just theory. In 2015, a study showed that improper roof rack setups could reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 25%.
Even without the kayak, the roof rack itself makes your car less efficient. One study, from Berkeley Labs and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in 2015, using crowd sourced data, reported that the loss from a roof rack alone can be up to 25%
https://www.daytondailynews.com/local/roof-rack-makes-car-less-fuel-efficient/SCEX7XYAYNEETEFXIZL7LS5K5M/
Using Crossbars for Specific Items
Different items need different setups. Here’s how spacing impacts various types of cargo:
Kayaks and Canoes
These are longer loads that require wider spacing to maintain stability. Ideally, crossbars should be spaced about 30 to 36 inches apart for kayaks. The extra space distributes the weight better and helps you secure the front and rear of the kayak or canoe to the vehicle. Always use a bow and stern tie-down in addition to securing the kayak to the crossbars.
Roof Boxes
Roof boxes, often used for long trips, need a precise placement. Check the manual that came with your roof box for its recommended crossbar spacing. Most roof boxes fit well with a spacing of 26-30 inches. A too-wide or too-narrow placement can cause the box to shift or even pop open during transit.
Bikes and Skis
For bikes or skis, closer crossbar spacing (around 24-28 inches) is more effective. With bikes, in particular, it’s important to ensure the tires are secure on the rails without tilting over, which can happen if the crossbars are too far apart.
How to Measure Crossbar Spacing
Measuring crossbar distance is simple. Use a measuring tape to calculate the distance from the center of one bar to the center of the other. Always check this distance against the load you’re planning to carry. If you’re in doubt, lean towards a middle-range distance, around 28-30 inches, which works well for most items.
Summary of Ideal Crossbar Spacing
While each load and vehicle combination will differ, here’s a quick overview:
- General Loads: 28-30 inches
- Kayaks, Canoes: 30-36 inches
- Roof Boxes: 26-30 inches
- Bikes and Skis: 24-28 inches
Always follow your manufacturer’s guidelines and make sure the crossbars are securely locked before loading anything onto your roof rack.
Conclusion
Proper crossbar spacing on roof racks can save you from a lot of trouble down the road, literally. It’s about ensuring stability, safety, and efficient fuel use. Spacing your crossbars at the recommended distance ensures your load is evenly supported and minimizes the risk of shifting or damage. With accurate measurements and the right setup, you’ll protect your vehicle, cargo, and ensure a smooth ride.
For more official data and recommendations, refer to safety resources or user manuals from companies like Thule, Yakima, or the NHTSA.
