What Single Roof Rack System do You Recommend for My 2013 Honda Fit and My 2016 Honda CRV?

Question:

I would like to buy removable roof rack system for a 2013 Honda Fit that has no existing rails or crossbars. I see several choices, but would like to know whether any of the kits could also be used on my 2016 Honda CRV. Can the same towers and crossbars used, but attaching to the CRV with a different set of door frame clamps? The CRV roof is about 4 inches wider.

asked by: Stephen S

Expert Reply:

I have an amazing crossbar solution for you. While there are common towers that will work with different fit kits that are specific for both your 2013 Honda Fit and your 2016 Honda CRV, the complicating factor is the crossbar length. All systems that we carry have different recommended crossbar lengths for your vehicles. This complicates the matter because not only will the crossbars potentially not extend far enough on one of your vehicle's roofs, but most crossbars have a limited bottom channel attachment point that only extend so far in order to attach to the feet. For this reason, even if you had a different fit kit with the same towers, you would need separate crossbar lengths for both vehicles.

With that being said, the easiest and best solution all round is the SeaSucker Monkey Bars # 298-SX6000B. Since the Monkey Bars come as a complete system, you will not need to worry about fitting different components on your 2013 Honda Fit and your 2016 Honda CRV. Also, apart from the impressive 150 pound weight capacity, the Monkey Bars include the easiest and fastest installation and removal process of any roof racks we carry here at etrailer. As with all roof rack systems, I recommend consulting with your vehicle's owner's manual to make sure that your roof can handle that much weight.

For theft-deterrence on your Monkey Bars, I recommend the SeaSucker Cable Anchor for Cable Lock - Window Mounted # 298-BA0010 along with the etrailer Cable Lock # e98891.

expert reply by: Bob C