Racketon Roof Cargo Rack

Racketon roof racks are compatible with most SUVs, trucks, and crossovers that have factory or aftermarket crossbars installed. You’ll need existing crossbars on your vehicle—the rack mounts to these bars, not directly to your roof. Check our size guide above to find the best rack for your specific vehicle. If your crossbars are between 2-4 inches shorter than the rack length, you’re good to go.
Crossbars are NOT included and must be purchased separately if your vehicle doesn’t have them.

Most Racketon models (64″ and 74″ sizes) support up to 300 lbs of cargo. Our largest model (74″x49″) has a 400 lbs capacity. However, always check your vehicle’s dynamic roof load rating first—it’s usually listed in your owner’s manual. Your roof’s rating might be lower than the rack’s capacity, and you must follow the lower limit. The weight limit includes both the rack and your cargo combined.

A Racketon roof rack adds approximately 8 inches to your vehicle’s height. Most standard garage doors are 7 feet (84 inches) tall, so if your vehicle is under 76 inches without the rack, you should fit comfortably. Important: Measure at your garage entrance, not just inside—driveway angles can reduce clearance when entering. If you’re tight on space, consider removing the rack when not in use. Installation and removal takes about 30 minutes once you’re familiar with the process.

No special tools required. You’ll need basic items most people already have: a wrench or socket set and possibly a screwdriver. All mounting hardware (U-bolts, clamps, washers, nuts) comes included in the box. Pro tip: Having a second person helps significantly due to the rack’s weight (42-70 lbs depending on model), but technically one person can install it. Plan for 30-60 minutes for your first installation.

Racketon racks include a wind fairing (air deflector) designed to minimize noise. Most customers report minimal to no wind noise at highway speeds when the rack is empty. Noise can increase slightly when loaded, depending on how you pack your cargo—aerodynamic items create less noise than bulky, uneven loads. Proper installation is key: make sure all rubber strips are correctly positioned and end caps are fully locked.

An empty roof rack typically reduces fuel economy by 5-10% due to increased wind resistance. With cargo loaded, expect a 10-25% decrease depending on the size, weight, and aerodynamics of what you’re carrying. A flat cargo bag is more efficient than irregularly shaped items. If fuel economy is a priority and you’re not using the rack regularly, consider removing it between trips—it takes about 30 minutes to take off and reinstall.

The Racketon itself is a mesh-style basket, so it’s open to the elements—not a sealed container. The galvanized steel construction and powder-coat finish make it weather-resistant and rust-proof, but your cargo will be exposed to rain and snow. For weather protection, use waterproof cargo bags or tarps to cover your items. Many customers pair their Racketon with cargo nets and weather-resistant bags for all-season hauling.

Racketon racks feature double-layer rust protection: galvanized steel construction with a powder-coat finish on top. With proper care, they resist rust for years, even in snowy climates with road salt. Inspect your rack periodically (especially after winter months) for any paint chips or scratches. Touch up any damaged areas promptly with rust-resistant paint to maintain protection. Avoid leaving the rack wet for extended periods when not in use.

Racketon offers comparable load capacity (300-400 lbs) and durability to premium brands at 1/3 the price. Our 8-inch high rails provide more vertical storage space than most competitors (4-6 inches). The main difference? Premium brands include more refined mounting hardware and accessories. Racketon focuses on core functionality—heavy-duty hauling without the premium price tag. If the included U-bolts feel basic, they’re easily upgraded for $10-15.

You can leave your Racketon installed year-round—it’s built to withstand all weather conditions. However, removing it when not in use offers benefits: improved fuel economy, reduced wind noise, easier garage clearance, and longer life for the rack’s finish. Many owners install it seasonally (spring through fall) or just when needed for trips. Once you’ve installed it a few times, removal and reinstallation becomes quick and easy—about 20-30 minutes.