Yakima Wind Fairing

[Cbrdan600]

I really like the look of the Yakima Wind Fairing and rack, addition to the factory one, plus I was given a Yakima wind fairing only. However, as i began to look for the mounts and bars, I realized that they do not mount flush with the roof. (in the front) I have a sun roof and use it all the time rain or shine. Yes Rain, I can have it partially open and the factory wind deflector does the job well. So in this debate I wanted some input on how well they actually work.
after 3 years i finally did it. no running boards

 

[WrexHAmm]

I ditched the factory crossbars for a set of the Yakima 48 inch w/ landing pads and locks. I didn't go the for the front setup like some do. I would hit up Ripcord, he has that front set up like you are wanting. From the looks of mine you would have enough clearance to use the front setup and still use your sunroof.

On the same note, I am very very happy with the switch. The Yakima bars sit a bit higher but look better and can carry a higher load. They are also super easy to remove and install so I can fit in the garage with my ski rack.

If you decide to not go through with it let me know, I'll take that wind faring off your hand.

 

[Cbrdan600]

I know that the Yakima rack sits higher than the factory one. I have two fork mount bike carriers that attach to the cross bars. (factory or after market) But I am worried that the hight will play a factor in the stability of my bikes. I am also sorta skeptical about attaching (drilling) the mounts on the roof in front of the factory rails witch holds the wind fairing.

 

[WrexHAmm]

The height doesn't make any difference. I have two bike trays with the fork mounts. Just mount the bars far enough back that the wind faring doesn't cover the sunroof. Why the heck would you drill into your roof?! The wind faring should have rubber mounts that sit against the roof with no drilling.

 

[liv2bike]

I know that the Yakima rack sits higher than the factory one. I have two fork mount bike carriers that attach to the cross bars. (factory or after market) But I am worried that the hight will play a factor in the stability of my bikes. I am also sorta skeptical about attaching (drilling) the mounts on the roof in front of the factory rails witch holds the wind fairing.

I run a full Yakima rack with (4) fork mount carriers attached to 48" Yakima load bars. I also run the Yakima fairing. My fairing sits on my roof, flush with it. I padded the fairing brackets with the soft side of some Velcro. I also put some clear vinyl down where the fairing brackets contact my roof as added protection. I did not have to drill anything to mount my fairing. I think you want to mount a Yakima fairing to your OEM crossbars though. Not sure if that will require drilling or not. You should be able to get a different mounting bracket from Yakima to fit various crossbar shapes/sizes.

Difference in height is not that great. Bikes should be plenty stable as long as the trays are properly secured to the crossbars and you use locks. Why don't you just move the trays back which will give you more room for the fairing? Move them back as far as you can so that you can still fully open your lift gate.

If anything, go full Yakima. Get your parts (load bars, landing pads etc) off ebay or CL.