JamesBond007

I have an Avant with the standard "rails" and want to install a rack. I saw an Avant with silver cross bars that appeared to connected directly to the rack. Seemed to be "integrated."

I noticed two holes in the rails and figured that's where the "Audi" crossbars go. The silver crossbars seemed to look nice.

HOWEVER, it seems that a Yakima or Thule is a more professional rack and the system seems more stable especially for a cargo box and multiple bikes.

Thule CrossRoad 450 adaptor and crossbars is a option but it doesn't look as nice.

Comments?

Thanks in advance.

Bob Loblaw

I have the Evolution box, velovise bike trays and windsurfer carrier. All go on and off with ease and still look fairly 'integrated' IMO.

One thing I did do is cut the cross bars so that they sat a little more flush with the roof rails. If I ever move to another vehicle that I can re-use the 'feet' on the system and the cross bars are too short, well, I'll buy new ones.

Oh - and the box is WAY more quiet on the highway than I would have ever guessed.

I don't have any experience with the OEM racks, but the Thule was a good buy, IMO.

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/42205/box_1.jpg">

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/42205/box_2.jpg">

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/42205/rack_1.jpg">

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/42205/rack_2.jpg">

mksap11

<center><img src="http://tinypic.com/b84dmw.jpg"></center><p>

k9zAvant

It was originally bought for my 2004 A4, with new adapters was able to to be used on my Volvo XC90, and now is being used on my Avant without having to buy any new parts.

ChillyInPhilly

ditto

newyorker2

If you re-read this...
I've just received the Mont Blanc Aerowing rack. Cheaper than OEM rack and looks better too. www.montblanc.se

joxer

Here it was about the same price for a system with one bike attachment and the racks from Audi, and I just plain think they look better. And when I buy the next bike attachment it wil be a little cheaper again as the bike part is cheaper. Dealer also gave 10% discount. The killer is if I decide I need a box - may have to see if soemone else's box will work on these racks.

JamesBond007

Do you have a picture of the Audi rack? Is your car an Avant?

Thanks for the follow-up.

mksap11

Like Bob Loblaw said, you lose flexibility when/if moving to a different car. You also can't use a lot of the different attachments offered by those companies (may or may not be an issue). Thule also lets you easily locate and purchase replacement hardware like bolts, washers, fit kits, etc.