Supporting Weight on a Roof Rack

Buying Aussie Roof Racks

If we are considering a roof rack it is because we want to at least occasionally carry something on the vehicle’s roof. This is usually a good option. Roof racks might prove useful if we just need extra luggage space, if the luggage is too large to fit inside the vehicle, or if the luggage is wet and not suitable for carrying inside. A roof rack for a surfboard is a good example. it is too large for most vehicles, and best kept outside because it will be wet once it is used.

But even though the roof rack will allow more carry space it will not allow more weight. A vehicle is designed to carry a certain total amount of weight, which includes the passengers, and it is dangerous to exceed this. Occasionally this weight limit can be raised by modifying the vehicle, altering the suspension, and widening the wheelbase, but this is a major modification and not recommended.

Every vehicle is different. We will have to consult the owner’s manual (or the appropriate manufacturer’s website) to find the limits for your particular situation. And remember, the weight of the roof rack itself is part of the total weight limit. And the distribution of the weight is also very important.

Weight Issues for Roof Racks

Issues to consider with regards to weight and a vehicle:

• If we put a lot of weight on the roof the centre of gravity of the vehicle is raised. This will significantly affect vehicle handling. It is all too easy for a car to roll over on a turn if the centre of gravity is high. So try to keep the centre of gravity low by putting as much weight as possible inside the vehicle rather than on top.
• A canoe, kayak, boat, or surfboard on a roof rack will catch the wind as the vehicle moves. It can easily become airborne if not securely tied down. And even if it is secure the aerodynamics of the object can affect vehicle handling.
• The static weight load of a vehicle is different from the dynamic weight. When the vehicle is stationary/parked it might hold a very large weight on the roof (the static load).
• The dynamic weight is how much load the vehicle can hold on the roof when being driven. 75 kg is about average. Any more than this and the car becomes difficult to handle and dangerous.
• Static load (not moving) can be 8 to 10 times the dynamic load weight (being driven).

For example. A tent on a roof rack might weigh 50 kg. This is fine when the car is being driven, being lower than the 75 kg limit. When the car is parked the tent is opened and occupied. 2 people in the roof rack tent might weigh 150kg, but this is fine as long as the car is stationary.

Find Tracklander Roof Racks in Melbourne

Roof racks allow the vehicle to carry more luggage, and items too large to fit inside. Our Customs roof racks in Melbourne are the best option.