Comparing the 50 Inch and 58 Inch Long Malone AirFlow2 Roof Racks for a 2017 Subaru Forester

Question:

Hello. I was wondering if the Malone Airflow2 roof rack bars will fit on the factory roof rails of a 2017 subaru forester? If so, what would the difference be between the 50inch vs the 58. Will the 58inch cause more aerodynamic instability and more noise? And because the cargo carrying capacity is only 150 lbs as per the owners manual, would it just be wasted space on the 58inch aerobars? Thank you very much.

asked by: Gregory C

Expert Reply:

Yes, the Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack part # MPG215 and the Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack part # MPG216 will both fit the raised factory side rails on your 2017 Subaru Forester. The only difference between them is length as you alluded to, 50" long vs 58" long. The 58" long crossbar will have a slight decrease in aerodynamics as it is longer therefore more surface area for the wind to come into contact with but this is not anything that you would be able to notice.

The best one for you really just comes down to what you will be using them for. If it is just for a cargo box or basket then you will be fine with the 50" long crossbars part # MPG215 but if you want to carry multiple kayaks or a cargo box and a bike rack then you would want to go with the 58" long crossbar part # MPG216. You could still carry multiple items on your roof even with a 150 lb weight capacity so it's not really wasted space. I personally prefer the longer option in case you change your mind on what you need to be able to carry in the future.

I have attached an install video for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L