What do you want on your ROOF RACK?

[CBI OffRoad Fab]

Okay its feedback time and we need the help of all you Toyota enthusiasts!

We are starting a project for a customer and building a custom roof rack for his 3rd gen 4runner. As part of this project we are looking at building roof racks to start offering as production products.

The goal is to offer something better than what is available. So for this reason we need your help. Below is a list of ideas that we are considering as options or features. Let us know what you think and add your own ideas to this thread.

Let's get a good discussion going and put together an awesome roof rack for all off-roaders alike.

Here are some ideas to start the discussion:

• Height (Low profile or taller?)
• length (Should it be short or run the full length of the vehicle?)
• Weight (How big of factor is it? Steel or aluminum)
• Price (Depending on options how does price affect your decision?)
• Do you want expandable options? (Great to buy as you go or can afford it)
• Accessories (What do you want to carry - tires, recovery jack, shovel, ax, camping gear, roof top tents, canoes, etc?)
• Do you want it all one piece or bolt together?
• What type of light mounts do you want?
• What kind of lights will you use?
• Light mounts front and rear? What about the sides?
• Are you a rock crawler or an expedition traveler?
• How will you access your roof rack?
• How important is the look of the rack? What look would you like to see?
• Do you want the space dividable?
• Compatibility with other roof rack manufacturers and accessories?
• What else are you looking for?

Thanks for all of your help and we look forward to a great discussion!!!

 

[theizzardking]

Height (Low profile or taller?)~ mid height, jerry cans shouldn't become a tip hazard due to low rail height, there really is a sweet spot for low pro and preserving the whole function of a basket style type rack, these stealth ones look cool but don't feel as secure as the classic cargo/safari basket racks

length (Should it be short or run the full length of the vehicle?)
full length with removable sunroof area
Weight (How big of factor is it? Steel or aluminum)
not a deal breaker either way, load carrying ability and strength of construction is greater imo, weight difference between the two would be minimal anyways and i'd paint my black as well, so steel
Price (Depending on options how does price affect your decision?)
around $600 is my limit
Do you want expandable options? (Great to buy as you go or can afford it)
Accessories (What do you want to carry - tires, recovery jack, shovel, ax, camping gear, roof top tents, canoes, etc?)
HELL YES
Do you want it all one piece or bolt together?
tough one, i prefer single piece but shipping could be cut in half if bolt together, depends on the price point in the end
What type of light mounts do you want?
recessed into wind fairing, standard 6 inch round lights with optional fairing for 4 or 8 inch and optional LED bar fairing as well, i see this as doable as it's just a bit of polycarbonate and is easy to cut
What kind of lights will you use?
TBD;this is like a tire question to many to choose from
Light mounts front and rear? What about the sides?
recessed in the front fairing, optional tabs all the way around
Are you a rock crawler or an expedition traveler?
my roof rack shouldn't care, both carry very heavy things but with that said the latter and would like to see what you guys could do with a roof top tent while trying to keep the side rails.
How will you access your roof rack?
via sliders,standing on the tire,but a rear hatch ladder isn;t out of the question if price is reasonable
How important is the look of the rack? What look would you like to see?
function is number 1 and looks is number 2, recessed lighting in the fairing is something i've always wanted and have never seen done properly another thing that would be cool is to offer a pre wired option where you sale the lights with the rack and run the cable for the lights through the rack for the customer
Do you want the space dividable?
not really bothered but if dividable the dividers need to be removable
Compatibility with other roof rack manufacturers and accessories?
yakiama if anything thule has very little in comparison
What else are you looking for?
long walks on the beach, a good personality and can cook ; oh and a big rack!!!:girl:

 

[dirtbike250x]

I am looking to upgrade to a roof rack eventually,
Height- I prefer a lower profile that could use the factory roof slides to keep it close to the roof
Length- I like rack lengths that come up right behind the sunroof, but with some sort of support up front
Weight- I think steel would be best to keep the price down, unless the price is reasonable with aluminum
I think the rack should be expandable so if it's not going to be used for awhile then it can be taken off and stored.
I don't plan on running lights front or rear so I can't give any ideas for that.
It would also be great if there was an easy way to mount a kayak on it as well as incorporated side mounts for a shovel or hi-lifts would be cool.
But I am sure anything you guys come up will look great and function just as good, hope my ideas can help a little, and some others have feedback.

 

[BigRogers]

Height (Low profile or taller?)~ mid height, jerry cans shouldn't become a tip hazard due to low rail height, there really is a sweet spot for low pro and preserving the whole function of a basket style type rack, these stealth ones look cool but don't feel as secure as the classic cargo/safari basket racks

length (Should it be short or run the full length of the vehicle?)
full length with removable sunroof area
Weight (How big of factor is it? Steel or aluminum)
not a deal breaker either way, load carrying ability and strength of construction is greater imo, weight difference between the two would be minimal anyways and i'd paint my black as well, so steel
Price (Depending on options how does price affect your decision?)
around $600 is my limit
Do you want expandable options? (Great to buy as you go or can afford it)
Accessories (What do you want to carry - tires, recovery jack, shovel, ax, camping gear, roof top tents, canoes, etc?)
HELL YES
Do you want it all one piece or bolt together?
tough one, i prefer single piece but shipping could be cut in half if bolt together, depends on the price point in the end
What type of light mounts do you want?
recessed into wind fairing, standard 6 inch round lights with optional fairing for 4 or 8 inch and optional LED bar fairing as well, i see this as doable as it's just a bit of polycarbonate and is easy to cut
What kind of lights will you use?
TBD;this is like a tire question to many to choose from
Light mounts front and rear? What about the sides?
recessed in the front fairing, optional tabs all the way around
Are you a rock crawler or an expedition traveler?
my roof rack shouldn't care, both carry very heavy things but with that said the latter and would like to see what you guys could do with a roof top tent while trying to keep the side rails.
How will you access your roof rack?
via sliders,standing on the tire,but a rear hatch ladder isn;t out of the question if price is reasonable
How important is the look of the rack? What look would you like to see?
function is number 1 and looks is number 2, recessed lighting in the fairing is something i've always wanted and have never seen done properly another thing that would be cool is to offer a pre wired option where you sale the lights with the rack and run the cable for the lights through the rack for the customer
Do you want the space dividable?
not really bothered but if dividable the dividers need to be removable
Compatibility with other roof rack manufacturers and accessories?
yakiama if anything thule has very little in comparison
What else are you looking for?
long walks on the beach, a good personality and can cook ; oh and a big rack!!!:girl:

theizzardking has it FTW. Just follow his spec's and you will have the best racks on the market HANDS DOWN.

 

[KidVermicious]

• Height (Low profile or taller?) - Low profile, just high enough that there's a lip
• length (Should it be short or run the full length of the vehicle?) - Full length
• Weight (How big of factor is it? Steel or aluminum) - As light as possible while remaining sturdy
• Price (Depending on options how does price affect your decision?) Price is always a factor
• Do you want expandable options? (Great to buy as you go or can afford it)
• Accessories (What do you want to carry - tires, recovery jack, shovel, ax, camping gear, roof top tents, canoes, etc?) - Yes
• Do you want it all one piece or bolt together? One piece, bolts rattle and flex
• What type of light mounts do you want? tabs are fine
• Light mounts front and rear? What about the sides? 4 in front, 1 on each side, 2 in back
• Are you a rock crawler or an expedition traveler? yes
• How will you access your roof rack? standing on the sliders
• How important is the look of the rack? What look would you like to see? look schmook. Make it functional
• Do you want the space dividable? that'd be cool - movable load bars that clamp across the middle?
• Compatibility with other roof rack manufacturers and accessories? adapters to mount to Thule and Yakima bars would be cool

Little loops along the outside to hook straps to, so they don't slide up and down the rack. Light weight and easily removable, because some of us won't be using it as a fashion accessory.

A half-width rack to go next to a cargo box would be kinda pimp.

Thanks for letting us get in on your market research.

 

[CBI OffRoad Fab]

Thanks for the responses everyone. I see some very beneficial and helpful info... Great ideas too!

Keep it coming along with any new ideas or options you would like to see.

 

[jediwebdude]

Sent you an email, Nathan. I think having a rack that can be flat when you need it flat, yet able to bolt-on walls when you need sides would be ideal.

 

[BucknutBob]

One other thing that few offer is an attachment system for those without factory racks or rails. So many designs get thrown out in my search because they have no way to attach it. A mid-level height would work well, maybe around 5-6". Light weight is good, but not if it compromises strength. Light tabs, tool and tire mounts, etc., should all be designed for addition later. For length, I prefer about 3/4 of the roof, like from the sunroof back. Dividers would be nice, but as previously stated, they should be removable. Optional floor pan/slats would be nice, to keep things from getting on the roof. Lights should be able to attach to any side, not just front (sides are nice for trail work lights). Aluminum is good for corrosion-resistance, as long as it's strong. Price shouldn't exceed $800 incl. a few accessories (maybe more if fully loaded). The rack should be easily removable, too.

 

[CBI OffRoad Fab]

Thanks for all of the responses. Keep them coming!

For those who have roof racks or want them... What do you carry the most or plan on carrying the most on your rack? Trying to get an idea of what are the most common items people use.

 

[Doc2012]

Height (Low profile or taller?) Medium, to medium-low. Those of us that wheel/crawl in the woods need to be able to keep what little clearance on top we MIGHT have, without stopping the progress of others because we get caught up on a low branch or tree. Plus, these things are rolling bricks. Want to keep that drag down!!!!
length (Should it be short or run the full length of the vehicle?) FULL!! The short racks don't really allow for the light to be positioned at the optimum angle IMO. A long rack lets the driver position the lights as he wants them, without burining the sh!t out of the top of the rig, and loosing light. Plus, more storage, and better weight distribution.
Weight (How big of factor is it? Steel or aluminum) BIG. Alot of us are going to be putting this up with only ourselves, or maybe one other person(I know I will). I wouldn't want to be fumbling around with this, scratching the hell out of my paint, and possible breaking things because of the awkardness of trying to lift it alone.
Price (Depending on options how does price affect your decision?) CHEAP!!!!!!! The less it's going to be, the more people will buy it, especially in times like these.... Options can be added later, as money permits.
Do you want expandable options? (Great to buy as you go or can afford it) As you go.
Accessories (What do you want to carry - tires, recovery jack, shovel, ax, camping gear, roof top tents, canoes, etc?) High-Lift Jack, Shovel, Ax, Bikes, camping gear. Throw some tie down points on it, for those of us that might want to strap our stuff down. I know driving down the road and having sh!t fly out is always a worry for me.... Jerry can mounts too, for those of us that like the skinny pedal. :driving:
Do you want it all one piece or bolt together? As stated before, this option is something that can be decided when the time really comes. IF it can be JUST AS strong, if not stronger, bolted, do it. Cut the shipping costs. If not, then a one piece.
What type of light mounts do you want?Tabs. Makes it easier to mount them, and take them off if one catches a branch or flying rock.:dammit:
What kind of lights will you use? TBD. gotta see what it looks like first.
Light mounts front and rear? What about the sides? ALL AROUND!!! (Tabs would be fine. IMO)
Are you a rock crawler or an expedition traveler? Both
How will you access your roof rack? Prefer ladder in the back, but the wheel or sliders aren't out of the question.
How important is the look of the rack? What look would you like to see? Something "delightfully tacky, yet unrefined." LOL. Make it flow with the truck. Not like a big box on a box.
Do you want the space dividable? YES!!! BUT must be removable or consolidatable.
Compatibility with other roof rack manufacturers and accessories? THIS IS YOUR RACK!!!! LMFAO.
What else are you looking for? Ease of mounting, acess, strength, PRICE, functionality, and looks. Gotta look good on the truck.

 

[noobshooter]

I'm glad y'all are planning on a roof rack to your product line!

I'd be interested in buying a truly modular design roof rack. One that allows you to start with a basic flat platform, and select options based on need/want. Offering either a low profile or taller design, and either a half length or full length. Much like an expandable dining room table where the mid section is removable. If you could offer accessory attachment mounts that would be a big benefit. I would personally like to see an aluminum roof rack.

Im don't know if a modular rack is viable to make from a production stand point, but i'd like to see a roof rack that can be changed around to fit my changing needs.

 

[KidVermicious]

Thanks for all of the responses. Keep them coming!

For those who have roof racks or want them... What do you carry the most or plan on carrying the most on your rack? Trying to get an idea of what are the most common items people use.

My roof rack sees camping gear, firewood, my hilift, and the spare. The hilift and the spare will relocate to the rear carrier when I get around to building it, I hate having them up that high.

 

[CBI OffRoad Fab]

Great feedback guys! Any other details that have not been covered?

 

[deedst4r]

I don't know if this has been said yet.. But I want it to be easy on the wallet!

 

[CBI OffRoad Fab]

Okay there seems to be a lot of talk about pricing. I know a good price is very important... especially these days! But as you all know there are trade offs when it comes to price. Maybe you trade options and build quality as the price goes down, etc.

Realistically what is a good price for a good quality roof rack? We have some good ideas to help with the price but I would like to get a better idea of what the majority thinks is a fair price for a good rack?

Again thanks for all of the comments and emails. This is really great information.

 

[jediwebdude]

If you go the modular route, then I could envision product pricing like this:

- $750 for flat rack with front deflector (w/ optional opening for sunroof) and mounting hardware and powder coating
- $350 for bolt-on side and rear rail walls powder coated
- $1,050 for the above as a pkg
- $250 for bolt-on lighting bracket that mounts on front of rack (may or may not replace deflector) powder coated

 

[kaizer427]

Sent you an email, Nathan. I think having a rack that can be flat when you need it flat, yet able to bolt-on walls when you need sides would be ideal.

Agree.

Full length, low profile. In addition, under 700 in basic trim would be huge.

Perkins makes an awesome rack but it is just too expensive.

 

[noobshooter]

If you go the modular route, then I could envision product pricing like this:

- $750 for flat rack with front deflector (w/ optional opening for sunroof) and mounting hardware and powder coating
- $350 for bolt-on side and rear rail walls powder coated
- $1,050 for the above as a pkg
- $250 for bolt-on lighting bracket that mounts on front of rack (may or may not replace deflector) powder coated

I agree with jediwebdude's pricing structure for the most part. But for $1300 (complete) it would have to be one hell of a roof rack design. Personally, I think I would be comfortable spending $600 for a flat rack and $1100 for the complete rack (powder coated). Of course more if the rack is made of aluminum.

 

[theizzardking]

I agree with jediwebdude's pricing structure for the most part. But for $1300 (complete) it would have to be one hell of a roof rack design. Personally, I think I would be comfortable spending $600 for a flat rack and $1100 for the complete rack (powder coated). Of course more if the rack is made of aluminum.

1.3k for a rack.... you gotta be smoking crack..... i just paid $575 for this...sure add $200 for powder coat.... $775 otd...

if some guy in his garage in FL can turn these things out at a profit , i see no reason why you should expect to pay 1300 dollars for a roof rack from a company, sure i expect to see a bit of a mark up,but double? ... you guys are nuts......

 

[CBI OffRoad Fab]

1.3k for a rack.... you gotta be smoking crack..... i just paid $575 for this...sure add $200 for powder coat.... $775 otd...

if some guy in his garage in FL can turn these things out at a profit , i see no reason why you should expect to pay 1300 dollars for a roof rack from a company, sure i expect to see a bit of a mark up,but double? ... you guys are nuts......

Good point! The thing you have to take into consideration is some guy building in is garage has no overhead to worry about like a huge fab facility, laborers, payroll liabilities, utilities, huge government taxes, etc. So there is a difference. It's easy for him to make money when he doesn't have all the extra cost that a business in America has.

Maybe you have a point though... We should get him to build our roof racks!... I'd have to check the quality first before I would pass off on that one.