Are you a proud owner of Suzuki Jimny, and do you enjoy getting out in nature? If yes, adding a roof rack will turn your car from being a means of transport to an essential part of your adventure equipment.
A roof rack expands your storage capacity and lets you transport other adventuring equipment, such as bicycles, kayaks or camping equipment. Therefore, you should do it right when getting a roof rack for your car. This requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure the roof rack matches your Jimny’s capabilities and adventure needs.
This article offers five tips for selecting the best roof rack for your Jimny. Continue reading to learn how to make your car more versatile and increase your enjoyment of the outdoors.
1. Go for Compatibility and Fit
When choosing the best roof rack for Suzuki Jimny, the first consideration is whether it fits your Jimny to the letter.
Roof Configuration: Your Jimny may have a bare roof, roof rails or rain gutters. Every configuration requires a unique kind of roof rack system. If your vehicle has no rails, go for a rack that can be fixed to the door frame or one that can be fitted directly to the roof using fixed points.
Dimensions and Shape: The roof rack should conform to the shape of your Jimny’s roof without overhanging in a way that could pose a safety risk or increase wind resistance unnecessarily. Measure your roof or consult your vehicle’s manual to ensure compatibility.
Installation Ease and Integrity: Consider how this rack is installed. Some racks require drilling into your vehicle, which might only be ideal for some. If you don’t like making permanent alterations to your car, consider non-invasive methods like clip systems. Also, consider how easy it is to install or remove the rack, as this could be a regular activity, depending on your usage.
2. Have the Load Capacity and Intended Use in Mind
The other critical consideration when choosing your roof rack is the type of cargo you intend to transport.
Static vs. Dynamic Load: Distinguish between static and dynamic load, that is, load when the vehicle is not in motion and when the car is moving. Your travels may involve lifting bulky equipment; therefore, the rock’s weight-carrying ability must suit your needs without compromising safety.
Cargo Type: Different racks are designed for specific items. A kayak rack may require more space between crossbars than a roof box. If you enjoy cycling, search for racks with bike rack compatibility.
Adjustability: Some roof racks allow you to move the crossbars to accommodate different cargo sizes or to distribute weight evenly. This feature can come in handy if your adventures mean different gear.
Daily Use vs. Occasional Use: Durability under repeated loading and unloading conditions is vital if you frequently use the rack. Conversely, if it’s for occasional use, consider a model that can be easily stored or doesn’t impact your vehicle’s aesthetics or aerodynamics when not in use.
3. Consider the Rack’s Material and Durability
You would also like to look at the material used on your roof rack since it defines its durability and efficiency. Here’s an overview of the common materials found in the market:
Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, aluminum racks are excellent for most users but might be less durable in extreme conditions than steel.
Steel: Heavier and potentially prone to rust if not correctly coated, but steel racks can handle more load and are typically cheaper. They’re ideal if you’re looking for toughness and durability.
Coatings and Finish: Look for powder-coated or galvanized finishes to prevent rust and corrosion. This is crucial if you often drive in areas close to the sea or places with harsh weather conditions.
4. Factor in Aerodynamics and Noise Reduction
As you will be attaching an accessory to your Jimny, it would be advisable to consider the design of the roof rack because it affects the driving experience. Keep the following aspects in mind before choosing a roof rack:
Wind Drag: Smooth exterior design decreases wind resistance and thus improves fuel consumption and decreases noise. They should be designs that have been tested in wind tunnels or those that have deflectors.
Noise Reduction Features: You want to buy racks with cross bars with rubber strips or a given shape to avoid whistling or humming sounds that may be annoying on long journeys.
Fuel Efficiency: Remember that anything increasing drag will affect fuel consumption. Think about how many times you will need the rack and whether it is more convenient to have detachable or fold-down options to save on fuel when the rack is not required.
Impact on Vehicle Handling: When designing a rack, it should be done so that the weight is evenly spread out and does not shift the center of gravity of your Jimny to the extent that it becomes affected by wind or when turning sharply.
5. Check for Additional Features and Flexibility
Your roof rack should grow with your adventures:
Attachment Systems: Look for T-track systems or slots that allow you to easily add accessories like lights, awnings, or tool holders.
Security Features: Integrated lock systems can protect the rack and the items you carry. If security is a concern, opt for racks with lockable end caps or accessory locks.
Modularity: Some systems provide modularity, meaning you can add or replace parts of your rack as your needs develop.
Ease of Installation and Removal: If you don’t plan to use your rack all the time, look for user-friendly systems for installation and removal.
Final Thoughts
When you’re in the market for a Suzuki Jimny roof rack, you’re not just adding storage space but enhancing your vehicle’s functionality to match your lifestyle.
Every aspect of compatibility, loading, material, and air rises, among other features, influences the rack’s usefulness for your endeavors. A well-chosen roof rack will carry your gear and your aspirations for exploration, making every journey as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
Remember, the best roof rack for your Jimny integrates so well that you’ll only notice its presence when loading up for your next big adventure.
