your thoughts on this roof rack?

[Northeast_T4R]

I've had the Thule MOAB for several years now. It's a great rack. Lightweight, well built, etc. I've even carried about 30 2x4's on top of it with no problem.

The only thing I should have bought when I installed it was the optional center expansion rack. That adds about 12-inches to the length of it.

 

[boston_kevin]

I don't think weight is the issue with MPG, but aerodynamics when items are placed in it.

I've heard reports of the cargo boxes (spirit, atlantis, skybox etc) being quieter and better for mpg.

The gobi looks like its pretty heavy duty, and the fairing only covers up to the lower bar. I don't know much about it, but I've seen someone here in Austin with one (on a 4Runner) driving on 2222 from time to time.

Myself, I've been debating a cargo box vs a roof rack (Thule moab vs yakima mega/load warrior). Haven't decided what yet. The gobi is cool, but seems a bit overkill for my needs.

You are correct... It is the affect on aerodynamics more than the weight which will affect your MPG. "Car coffins" (the aerodynamic cargo boxes) are great for small stuff or soft stuff, but still impact your MPG. The racks are good for any number of things on the roof and protect the roof. The gotcha is, you can take off the "car coffin", where racks like the GOBI are pretty much bolted on (can't switch them on and off easily).

 

[Mabuse]

Check out www.bajarack.com. Their racks look pretty nice and come in around the price of a Thule rack. You can even get the off-road light brackets and a harness for it.

I've been interested in a Baja Rack ever since you posted the link. I got an email from them yesterday. They will be rolling out a new 4Runner specific rack soon. I don't know how soon, but I am excited. The price is expected to be $600 and considering that price I think it will be similar to their FJ Cruiser expedition rack. I am very excited for this product.

Update: Baja Rack expects the new 4Runner rack to be available starting late February 2009.

 

[dieselwolf]

I love the way these rack look! But I think it's way too pricey. I have the Yakima Megawarrior on the 4th gen and the size looks very similar to this rack, perfect sizing, better than Loadwarrior, which is imho too small for the 4th gen. On the highway it's noisy though. The mpg drop (maybe 1 mpg) I don't care too much , if I was, I would have a Prius not a 4R...I got the Megawarrior from some out of state ski shop, free shipping, no tax, about $360..

 

[4runr30]

It's about $1300-$1500 if I recall. Plus, if you want lights, you can throw in another few hundred.

Holy cow. Nice rack, don't know if it is worth the price though. I guess if you have deep pockets then go for it.