Function, Recommendations, and Tips for Safely Installing a Roof Rack
The function of a roof rack for cars can be very helpful when your vehicle's luggage capacity is not large enough. However, the use of a roof rack should also be monitored for volume and weight so that the car used for driving remains stable while on the road. If the items stored on top of the car are too many, fuel consumption will become less efficient.
Therefore, you should use a roof rack only when you really need its function to carry items. If you often travel by land routes, a roof rack will greatly help you reduce baggage costs when using public transportation. Let's first understand the need for using a roof rack for your car.
Function of Roof Rack
You may have often seen cars with a roof rack on top and thought about buying and installing one on your car as well. But, what is the actual function of a roof rack? Yes, before buying, let's consider the following points.
Extra luggage when traveling long distances
A car that is too full of items will feel uncomfortable for its passengers. You may have experienced having to 'share' a seat in the car with a suitcase, travel bag, and so on. If this happens, you have a good reason to install a roof rack as additional luggage.
The main function of a roof rack is indeed designed to accommodate excess luggage when you travel long distances. This way, you can sit more comfortably with a larger space. However, make sure that you really need its function regularly, not just for 1-2 uses.
Not for car accessories
Aside from its function, a roof rack may also provide a decorative function for some people. However, know that a roof rack is not for car accessories, okay? This is due to the drawbacks of using a roof rack which is quite heavy, thus reducing fuel efficiency.
Tips for Safe Use of Roof Rack
Installing a roof rack on top of the car will certainly affect the optimization of driving functions. Every car is designed to provide safe driving functions. The additional function of a roof rack on top of the car will somewhat affect the vehicle's performance on the road. Therefore, pay attention to some tips when using it.
Check if the roof rail can accommodate the roof rack
Some car types are designed with roof rail designs that can accommodate additional racks. Yes, installing a roof rack on cars designed like this will certainly be easier. You can check this feature on the manufacturer's design.
Remove it when not in use
In addition to having functional benefits, the additional roof rack on top of the car can also affect the vehicle's aerodynamic pressure. Therefore, it is not recommended for the car to drive at high speeds, especially on highways. Removing the roof rack can help reduce aerodynamic pressure disturbance while the car is in motion.
Regularly clean and keep away from extreme weather
You should also pay close attention to the material used to make the roof rack that is durable. Usually, roof racks will be greatly affected by changes in weather and climate. The recommended material for a roof rack is plastic that is easier to clean regularly to prevent it from becoming brittle and damaged quickly.
Recommendations for Car Roof Racks
If you are sure about the need to buy a roof rack as additional luggage in your car, you definitely want to have the best roof rack, right? There are various types of roof racks in terms of shape, material, size, and price. Therefore, you can also look for several alternatives to use with the right function on top of your car.
In addition to considering several installation and usage tips for roof racks, you can also choose from several popular roof rack manufacturers below that can be considered.
Thule Kits 1357
This roof rack features an automatic locking system on the roof bar for easier installation. This installation technology is known as the smart fixation system. It’s no wonder that its use is also more practical because its design is referred to as a 'smart' system for secure installation.
Otorack Luggage Universal
Looking at its design, many people might fall in love with this universal roof rack. You can choose to use this roof rack to hold a load of up to 100 kilograms. With such design and function, the Otorack Luggage Universal might be one of the dream car racks for everyone.
The material of this roof rack made from iron base material makes it stronger and sturdier. You can also install it yourself at home. However, it’s fine if you want to take it to a workshop for a neater and safer installation.
Whale Roofbox 550 L
Unlike other types of roof racks, this rack has a box-shaped design or is better known as a roof box. The luggage that can be stored inside this baggage will certainly be safer from hot weather or rain. Not only that, but you can also choose this product because of its attractive design with a cool black texture.
With super ABS plastic material, this rack will not easily break, remains sturdy, and durable when used. However, you still need to regularly clean and store the vehicle in a safe place away from extreme weather.
JSL Roof Rack and Cross Bar
This type of roof rack is the most versatile product alternative. You can carry more loads of up to 75 kilograms. Surely, you can carry more items. Usually, this rack can be used for cars that already have built-in roof rails, such as Daihatsu Terios and similar vehicles.
This model of roof rack is equipped with clamps for easier installation. The material used for its main construction is durable and long-lasting ABS plastic. This roof rack is not easy to detach, practical, and has a simple installation.
Foxco Roof Rack
This recommended roof rack can be used for city cars. Its installation is also relatively easy and can be done by yourself using just nuts and bolts. However, this roof rack can also be chosen. The weight of this rack reaches 18 kilograms at an affordable price. The material of this rack is also made from high-quality plastic. Thus, the paint on the car body will not be damaged.
So, those are some recommendations, considerations, and tips for you who want to use a roof rack for additional luggage in your car. Remember, you really need to optimize the function of the roof rack as additional luggage because its price is not cheap, you know. Now, it's time to choose to get the best roof rack for your car!
Author: Rizkita Darajat
