Roof Rack Help.

[peterm15]

I am in the market for a roof rack, id perfer to buy used as it is cheaper but i am coming across some difficulties.

Through much reasearch on this forum, it seems like roof racks for sedans and hatches are different. I believe its the length of the bars that make a difference. BUT, when i go to thule's site it seems all the parts are the same, 460r, arb47, kit3069. These are the same parts used for both gen 3's, 4 and 5 door, as well as the mazda 5 ( up to 2011 i think) If that is the case could i broaden my search to include all these cars ( found a few OEM racks for mazda 5) or do i actually have to stick with a gen 1 sedan? I know bars can be cut, but there is also flush systems i am looking at.

I am also slightly confused on accesories, If i say get an thule aerobar rack, could i purchase accessories from a different manufacture like yakima? Truthfully i have no idea how everything attached to the rack.

Thanks in advance for the help.

Pete

[Default User]

The rack is the same for both sedans and hatches

The only differences come into play wether or not you use the OEM fixed points (rain gutter) or the clamp (naked roof) kits.

And even the differences there, are where you position the fit kits. For instance - my old system (naked roof) for my old hatch went on to a sedan when I sold it. The distance between the front and rear bars was the only difference.

As I mentioned in another post - Thule sells conversion adapters for Thule-branded accessories to fit aeroblade bars. Not sure if Yakima will do the same though.

Your best bet is to visit rackattack.com

If you plan to buy used - hunt kijiji for base systems that use the 50" load bars and the 460 podiums. A lot of other vehicles use this base. You can then sell the unusable fit kit, accessories, etc and purchase the proper fit kit new if needed. However, I doubt you will find the new Aeroblades bars used or cheap.

[peterm15]

Thanks a lot. Gives me a lot more options for sure.

There is a few for the Mazda 5 on kijiji now. For pretty cheap.

Now Thule says 48" bar, I assume 50" is more popular and I can just cut it?

[Default User]

Now Thule says 48" bar, I assume 50" is more popular and I can just cut it?

I had 50" load bars on my 3 and it was fine. But yes - you can cut them if you want

and FYI
http://ontario.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-auto-parts-tires-other-parts-accessories-Thule-rack-for-Mazda-3-and-6-models-W0QQAdIdZ442573831

[peterm15]

Thanks a lot.

[peterm15]

I had 50" load bars on my 3 and it was fine. But yes - you can cut them if you want

and FYI
http://ontario.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-auto-parts-tires-other-parts-accessories-Thule-rack-for-Mazda-3-and-6-models-W0QQAdIdZ442573831

That kit does not seem to utilize the fixed roof points.

[Default User]

oops - wasnt sure if you wanted naked roof or fixed.

[peterm15]

oops - wasnt sure if you wanted naked roof or fixed.

i sould have clarified.
I would perfer fixed point as my car has the caps in the rain gutter.

if anyone else in interested.

http://ontario.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-auto-parts-tires-other-parts-accessories-Thule-Saturn-Ion-Roof-Racks-Sportrack-Explorer-W0QQAdIdZ432114142

its the same 400xt for $100

[peterm15]

Anyone have a rola roof rack?
Care to comment on quality?

[Default User]

Funny you ask. http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=68339

I don't have any first hand input on the product, but a few Mazda5 guys I know love em.

[peterm15]

Funny you ask. http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=68339

I don't have any first hand input on the product, but a few Mazda5 guys I know love em.

Ya I noticed that thread today.

I pulled the trigger on one yesterday. It will be here on the 7th.