Autohome RTT model discussion (Columbus vs Maggiolina)

[NuclearN8]

I'm starting this thread because I've decided on an Autohome for our future RTT but am having a hard time deciding between the two models.

http://www.autohomeus.com/roof-top-tent/columbus-tent.php

1) I would like to hear from those members that own either a Maggiolina or Columbus and what they like and don't like about their model.
2) Would you buy the same model again or switch?
3) How do you mount it? I'd like NOT to also buy a roof rack and just use some thule cross bars or similiar with quick disconnect removable feet so I can lift it on and off with ease to the factory side rails. (it's going on our dd and I don't want to leave it installed unless using it on the weekends)

thanks
Nate

 

[coulter6]

I have owned a Columbus and now own an Airtop.
Columbus:
Very easy to set up, one clip and it's up.
Easy, fast take down.
Lower center of gravity than Airtop, Airtop is taller and not as aerodynamic as the Columbus.
Not as sturdy in wind as Airtop

Airtop:
Easy to set up, 3 clips.
Pretty easy and fast to take down, but not as fast and convenient as the Columbus.
Takes more tucking off canvas than Columbus.
Good stability in wind.
Longer inside so feet don't touch. I'm 5' 10" and feet touched a little in the Columbus, not do in the Airtop.

My Autohome AirTop is mounted to the factory rails with Yakima Rail Grab towers. The reason I went this route instead of the new roof rack route was because it's much easier to remove the RTT for storage. I just loosen the 4 bolts on the Yakima towers and lift it off the rails, Yakima bars and all. It's kind of a pain to remove/install the RTT using the RTT mounting hardware since there are 8 bolts and very little room to maneuver your wrenches under the rack.

As it sits now, all I have to do is drive under the RTT, lower it, position it, and tighten the 4 Yakima bolts. Takes about 15 minutes.

 

[NuclearN8]

great feedback. thank you.

Any other opinions from owners?

 

[NuclearN8]

Anyone else? [MENTION=44305]weeeee[/MENTION] ?

 

[mountain mike]

You might try this discussion over on Expedition Portal. I would guess you would get more feedback.

 

[weeeee]

Anyone else? [MENTION=44305]weeeee[/MENTION] ?

I have a Maggiolina. The tucking of fabric is a little bit of a pain, and the latches don't work well with certain roof racks. For instance the latch doesn't fully engage due to the slats on the K9 rack, so I have to push down on the tent to get the latch off sometimes. Also for the same reason, I can't fully clamp down on the latch to get it to secure properly so it sometimes pops down in the back. No danger of it actually opening or deploying though, just a minor annoyance.

These are really small issues in the grand scheme of things. I love how easy the tent is to deploy and the ease of everything. With a standard RTT, there are quite a few additional steps involved (rain fly, guy lines, etc.). With the hard shell I usually pack all of my clothing items for the first night, along with my sleeping bag and pillows all inside of the tent- that way the first night I can literally roll into camp, deploy the tent and I'm set.

Hope that helps.

 

[tysondav]

I'm looking at either the Magg or Columbus. Which did the OP decide on? I really can't decide. The pros and cons for each make it tough. I guess the good news is I really can't go too wrong with either one.

 

[JPOVS]

May want to check your owners manual for weight on the roof of a 5th gen with factory rails, not cross bars. I checked mine and it says 120 pounds for a static load. I didn't believe it and called Toyota corporate and after further checking they also said 120 pounds max.

 

[tysondav]

May want to check your owners manual for weight on the roof of a 5th gen with factory rails, not cross bars. I checked mine and it says 120 pounds for a static load. I didn't believe it and called Toyota corporate and after further checking they also said 120 pounds max.

I am getting ready to purchase the Magg Extreme. The sales guy told me all I needed was a Yakima or Thule set of crossbars. When I talked to the James Baroud sales guy he said I needed aftermarket roof rack and and 3 crossbars, not the standard 2.

I don't want to spend the extra money and labor on a new roof rack or basket, but I also don't want my Magg to sheer off the interstate at 80 mph either.

Any comments or suggestions?