Snow Season Poll

[Will733]

Please help me choose between the following 3 options for carrying gear this winter season. I know snowboard bags would hang over the back of the megawarrior, but I would just get strong tie downs to hold them in. Here's a breif background:
1-I would like a setup that can carry 4 snowboards
2-I would like a setup that can carry 2 bikes
3-Roof racks (Baskets look the best, but would need to be removed when parking in my work garage on weekdays.

Should I get...
a) Bike hitch rack ($135) and Snowboarding adapter ($180) = $315
b) Bike hitch rack ($135), OEM Crossbars ($105), roof Snowboard rack ($135) = $375
c) Bike hitch rack ($135), OEM Crossbars ($105), Yakima Megawarrior ($315) = $555

 

[Will733]

Sounds like the basket would be a PITA.

Yeah, but it just looks so cool...
I may just end up getting it and finding alternative parking to accomodate it.

 

[desertred]

Chose function over form, as the former usually wins in the long run. If you will be using the setup with any regularity, the inconvenience of the basket will likely grow old quickly if you have to remove it after use. Considering that it appears that 'strictly function' may save you $200, that's a no brainer in my mind.

 

[2010riddle]

I'd go with A) or B) simply as they are the cheaper options. Although i'd be hesitant to do anything with the stock rails/crossbars. With those stupid cosmetic covers on the stock rails there is not really much room for adjustment front to back. If you wanted a basket, I'd ditch the whole thing and put your $420 towards a baja/gobi. then you'd really be lookin' cool....

 

[nah2323]

I'm on factory cross bars with Thule Pulltop6. It is pretty close to 4 boards in width (it's rated for 4), and you dont have to muff up the side of your pretty black car trying to load it. Since the 5th Gen is a little higher than my 3rd, I added some pull straps from the hardware store to be able to reach the top to close it. With the Pulltop on there, there would be plenty of space for two thule fork blocks and tire trays.

Pics if you would like.

 

[adio3x]

I don't think you'll have to take the basket off, my truck used to fit in a standard duplex garage with my yakima loadwarrior on with a few inches to spare. Doesn't now with the lift and tires, but it used too. I'd recommend the loadwarrior + extension, its a perfect size, goes right up to the moonroof. I don't know what the size comparison is to the megawarrior, i think the mw goes all the way to the windshield.

Heres a pic of mine, i currently have the big powderhounds on, fits 4 boards.

Loadwarrior + extension + 2 loadbars

 

[nah2323]

Be careful with the ski racks that far apart, someone could easily slide the boards/skis out without opening up the actual rack.

 

[adio3x]

Be careful with the ski racks that far apart, someone could easily slide the boards/skis out without opening up the actual rack.

O I know, I just haven't moved the load bar back yet lol.

 

[Will733]

Ended up with the Roof top cargo box option...

 

[mcflavin]

I don't think you'll have to take the basket off, my truck used to fit in a standard duplex garage with my yakima loadwarrior on with a few inches to spare. Doesn't now with the lift and tires, but it used too. I'd recommend the loadwarrior + extension, its a perfect size, goes right up to the moonroof. I don't know what the size comparison is to the megawarrior, i think the mw goes all the way to the windshield.

Heres a pic of mine, i currently have the big powderhounds on, fits 4 boards.

Loadwarrior + extension + 2 loadbars

Looks great! How does the PowderHound fit around the fairing? Does it interfere?

Thanks!
Steve