What Is A Roof Rack? Everything You Need to Know About Roof Racks

A roof rack is a set of bars securely attached to a vehicle’s roof to provide a load-bearing framework. These bars come in a variety of styles, including platform racks, crossbars, and specialised racks for tradespeople.

By utilising roof space, roof rack systems add storage on a vehicle’s roof while freeing up interior space. 

What Is a Roof Rack Used For?

A roof rack system allows for the safe and secure transport of bulky items or additional gear. Roof racks are an ideal storage option for large families, off-road enthusiasts, or tradespeople who need additional space.

Roof racks are used for safely hauling a wide range of equipment on the roof of a vehicle, such as:

• Bikes
• SUP boards
• Kayaks or canoes
• Surfboards
• Ladders
• Luggage
• Roof boxes
• Camping gear
• Bulky items
• Rooftop tents
• Jerry cans
• Awning
• Recovery gear
• Pipes
• Swags
• Shovel
• Conduit

 

 

What Makes Up a Roof Rack Kit

Roof rack systems consist of several components that span and attach to a vehicle roof:

• Roof Bars (Crossbars or Load Bars): The roof bars, sometimes called load bars or crossbars, are the weight-bearing system of the roof rack. The bars have channels built in that allow tie down points or fittings for accessories, such as holders, brackets, or carriers.
• End Supports: The end supports connect the mounting kit to the crossbars.
• Mounting Kit: The mounting kit consists of leg brackets and rubber pads that fit your specific vehicle and roof type, this is where the roof bars / roof rack platform will sit on when mounted to a vehicle.

 

What Are the Different Types of Roof Racks?

Platform Roof Racks

• What It Is: Tracklander P-Series Platform Roof Racks with fully welded aluminum construction create a flat, large surface across the roof for storage
• Key Features: Heavy-duty construction and no weak joints, allowing for higher load capacity; clean, sleek look and better aerodynamics; sits lighter and lower than competitors. Super versatile rack where you can retrofit any roof rack accessories from any brand by just using a lock nut you can get from a local tool store.
• Best For: Off-road enthusiasts; traditional 4WD tourers; tradespeople; modern EV’s.Easy for mounting rooftop tents.
• Learn More:  Platform Roof Racks

Flat Roof Racks

• What It Is: Tracklander’s Flat Roof Racks are incredibly lightweight and low-profile while packing some serious hauling strength and durability
• Key Features: Fully welded mesh base for a wide range of tie-down points; lightweight, easy to install, and heavy-duty; low-profile look and no rattling or whistling for a quiet, smooth ride. Variety of lengths available from 1400mm, 1800mm , 2200mm, and 2800mm.
• Best For: General use, off-roading adventures, and hauling camping gear; drivers who want a low-profile storage option with maximum versatility
• Learn More: Flat Roof Racks

Tradie Roof Racks

• What It Is: Tracklander’s Flat Mesh Style Roof Racks are  the Purpose-built fully welded roof racks for carrying heavy tools and supplies for work or gear for weekend use, its main unique feature comes from the added side rails/ side walls on the left & right section of the rack.. It’sincredibly lightweight and low-profile while packing some serious hauling strength and durability. It’s design are made for serious aerodynamic which are made to be fuel efficient, and minimal wind noise performance.
• Key Features:Variety of lengths (1400mm, 1800mm, 2200mm)  for added flexibility and easily hauling longer loads; open-ended for easy loading and unloading; low profile for less drag and max clearance
• Best For: Tradies who frequently load and unload heavy, awkwardly shaped gear, tools, and materials; securely and safely hauling ladders, conduit, pipe, timber, and longer items
• Learn More: Tradie Roof Racks

Basket Roof Racks

• What It Is: A strong, fully welded basket roof rack for aerodynamic hauling; similar to platforms but with raised sides all throughout the section of the rack
• Key Features: Welded mesh base; aerodynamic wind deflector for reduced noise and fuel use; fully welded for durability and strength; heavy-duty yet low-profile and quiet; wide range of tie-down points for maximum versatility
• Best For: Off-roading or camping enthusiasts; loose loads that need a bit more containment 
• Learn More: Basket Roof Racks

Cross Bar Roof Racks

• What It Is: Very lightweight aluminium extruded roof bars for heavy-duty performance with a low-profile design. Tracklander Bushrider Bar features a 50kg dynamic load capacity per bar.
• Key Features: Lightweight, sleek appearance, minimal wind noise, and versatile
• Best For: The most cost-efficient & lightweight way to mount a rooftop tent onto your vehicle. Suitable for large families who need more interior vehicle space and leg room; outdoor enthusiasts and off-road adventurers; general use.
• Learn More: Cross Bar Roof Racks

 

Important Considerations for Roof Racks

Installing a Roof Rack

 

A roof rack is more than just a storage accessory. Roof racks are load-bearing systems that must be structurally sound, properly attached, and suited to your specific vehicle. 

Installing a roof rack requires knowledge of your vehicle type, weight limits, height limits, and mounting points. For example, if your vehicle manufacturer tells you that your vehicle dynamic roof load capacity is 100kg, that means you can only put 100kg on top of your roof which includes the weight of whichever roof rack setup you choose.

Let say for example you choose a Tracklander 1400mm flat top mesh rack on your vehicle. This flat top mesh roof rack weighs 13.2kg, with included tough bar and wind deflector, that’s an additional 7-8kg ( a total of 20-21kg  weight). When you mount our Tracklander Flat Top Mesh rack full setup on a vehicle with 100kg dynamic load rating, the total load capacity you can load on top of the roof rack will be (100-21kg ) 79kg of weight capacity to put anything on top of your roof rack without going beyond the roof load limit.

Installation of our Tracklander roof racks is straightforward, as each rack comes with clear instructions and mounting kits. We’re also partnered with authorised stockists and fitters across Australia who can assist with professional installation.

Choosing a Roof Rack That Fits Your Vehicle

Most trucks, modern cars, and SUVs can accommodate a roof rack, but you must ensure vehicle compatibility.

Selecting the appropriate roof rack for your specific vehicles ensures:

• Minimal drag and wind noise
• Proper fit to your vehicle’s roof
• Safe load distribution
• Compliance with legal weight limits
• Secure and easy fitting of accessories, such as kayak carriers or bike carriers

We offer tailored roof rack systems for a wide range of vehicles, from Fords to Land Cruisers to Toyota Prado, BYD Shark and more. You can easily check vehicle compatibility with our Fit My Vehicle tool.

Legal Height Requirements

The legal maximum height for vehicles, including accessories, is generally 4.3 metres in Australia. Always double-check local regulations and pay attention to clearances.

Dynamic Roof Weight Limit

The dynamic roof weight limit is the maximum weight the roof can haul while moving. It includes the weight of the roof rack, accessories, and the weight of your load.

This weight capacity is set by the vehicle’s manufacturer to help maximise safety and protect your vehicle against damage.

Ignoring the dynamic roof weight limit puts you at risk of:

• Legal issues
• Rollovers
• Voided warranties
• Voided insurance
• Damage to the vehicle roof

Note: Be aware that there are two types of dynamic load ratings:

• Dynamic on-road: Driving on sealed roads.
• Dynamic off-road: Driving over rough terrain.

 

 

What Makes a Quality Roof Rack

When it comes to heavy-duty roof racks, we aim to provide the strongest yet lightest roof racks in the industry. Tracklander roof racks have been the clear choice for Australians since 1975, and we’re just getting better.

We’re especially excited about our new P Series Platform roof rack designed for your 300-Series Wagon 2021 – current.

Here’s why we think it’s one of the best roof racks on the market:

• Integrated wind strip: The built-in wind strip minimises drag and noise, making it one of the quietest roof racks on the market
• Low-profile: Another reason it is one of the quietest roof racks is its low-profile design that cuts noise and wind drag at highway speed
• Built for Australia: Based right in Perth, Australia, Tracklander roof racks are specifically designed to withstand our harsh climate and rugged terrain and last for a lifetime
• Exceptional strength: Fully welded aluminum construction with no bolting for a lightweight yet heavy-duty design
• Maximum load area: Full-length 2200mm platform for ample room
• Straightforward mount: It mounts straight to the roof with no rails, creating a streamlined look and improved aerodynamics

Learn more about how to find a quality roof rack in our guide: What To Look For In Roof Racks.

 

How to Choose the Right Roof Rack

Roof racks are ideal for adding storage space to vehicles for outdoor enthusiasts, tradespeople, and large families.

Choosing the right roof rack ensures you have the function and storage you need while ensuring safety. Regardless of what roof rack you choose, every Tracklander roof rack boasts the same off-road durability and lightweight design. 

Contact us to find the right roof rack for your vehicle and needs.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a roof rack and what is it used for?

A roof rack is a load-bearing framework that attaches to a vehicle’s roof. Roof rack systems increase a vehicle’s carrying capacity and add storage space for bulky items, camping gear, and equipment.

How do roof racks work and attach to vehicles?

Roof racks in Australia attach to vehicles in a range of ways, with some options requiring drilling.

Tracklander roof racks offer straightforward installation with all necessary mounting hardware and instructions included. And no drilling needed! Tracklander roof racks rely on the factory mounting points for a secure fit and DIY installation with minimal experience.

What is the point of a roof rack on a car?

A roof rack is an essential vehicle upgrade for Australians who frequently haul kayaks, bikes, equipment, or luggage. Roof racks add convenience, function, and additional storage space to vehicles.

Roof racks allow you to safely and securely haul items on the roof of your vehicle. This unlocks extra interior space in your vehicle by taking advantage of unused space on your roof.

What is the difference between roof racks and roof bars?

Roof bars are the load-bearing base that can be used to attach accessories to. A roof rack is a full-length platform or basket designed to haul gear on the roof.

What materials are roof racks made of: Aluminum vs. Steel?

Aluminum and steel are common roof rack materials. Steel is exceptionally strong and durable, but is known for being heavy and very prone to rust issues.

At Tracklander Roof Racks ,we prefer aluminium material for our roof racks for its robust strength, rust resistance, combined with an incredibly lightweight design.