What are Roof Rails and How are They Useful?

It's a common sight on Indian roads - SUVs and crossovers sporting shiny roof rails, giving the vehicles a rugged and adventurous look. But have you ever wondered what these roof rails are for? Are they just a style statement, or do they serve a purpose? Roof rails, affixed to the top edges of your car, serve as the base for mounting a roof rack – an accessory that allows you to carry extra luggage securely. Whether it's that extra suitcase for your long family vacation or camping gear for your weekend getaway, roof rails can make travelling hassle-free.

If you've been contemplating whether to install roof rails on your vehicle or not, this blog post is just for you! We delve into the intricacies of roof rails – their usefulness, potential drawbacks, and how best to utilise them. But before we get into the details, let's first understand what exactly roof rails are and why they have become increasingly popular among Indian vehicle owners.

What is a Roof Rail? 

A roof rail refers to a structure affixed to a car's roof edges. Its chief role is to provide additional storage space on your vehicle. Now, you might wonder, "When would I need extra storage on my vehicle?" Well, here are a few instances where roof rails come in handy:

1. Long drives: Are you planning an epic road trip? Roof rails can save the day by securely storing all your luggage.

2. Family trips: With kids and extended family in tow, boot space can quickly run out. Here's where roof rails come in handy.

3. Adventure travels: Do you love camping under the stars or traversing uncharted territories? Your camping gear and bicycles can comfortably rest on the roof rails. Especially for vehicles like 7-seaters, where boot space can be somewhat limited when all seats are occupied, roof rails are a lifesaver. They are functional and add a stylish edge to your car's aesthetics.

Pros of Roof Rails

Let's explore the many benefits of roof rails for your driving experience. Their widespread popularity among Indian vehicle owners isn't just for show; they offer numerous practical advantages that make them a must-have accessory for your car.

• Offers Extra Storage: Imagine heading out on a family trip in your seven-seater, with every seat occupied. The boot space becomes limited, and you're left scratching your head about where to fit all the luggage. Here's where roof rails step in to save the day. They add that extra bit of storage space on top of your car, accommodating all those extra bags and items that can't fit inside. 

• Provides Long-Lasting Protection to Luggage: Roof rails safely secure luggage. Their robust structure prevents bags from slipping during the journey. Plus, high-quality rails have anti-rust properties, ensuring they remain durable and reliable even after years of use.

• Ease of Transportation: If you've ever struggled with fitting an oversized item into your car, you'll appreciate roof rails even more. For instance, moving furniture or carrying a bicycle becomes significantly easier with these sturdy structures on top of your vehicle.

• Enhances the Car's Appearance: When installed on your vehicle, roof rails add a layer of sophistication to its exterior design. Whether an SUV or a hatchback, they give your car an athletic look, reflecting your adventurous side.

Cons of Roof Rails

While roof rails undoubtedly offer some key advantages for adventure enthusiasts and long-distance travellers, they aren't without their drawbacks. Particularly in India, where roads aren't always uniformly smooth, and fuel efficiency is a prime concern for many, these potential issues could make you think twice.

• Noise: One of the most common complaints about roof rails is that they can cause noise during drives. Especially at high highway speeds, the wind resistance against the rails can create a consistent hum or whistle that might annoy some.

• Damage to Car's Crossbars: Depending upon the design and quality of the rails, they may rub against your vehicle's crossbars. Over time, this friction could lead to wear and tear, potentially damaging your car's bodywork.

• Increased Fuel Consumption: There's no denying that roof rails add weight and wind resistance to your vehicle. This additional burden can lead to increased fuel consumption - not an insignificant factor considering India's rising fuel prices.

• Wobbling Effect: Roof rails can sometimes contribute to a slight wobbling effect while driving. This impact on stability is particularly noticeable when navigating turns or driving in windy conditions.

• Weight Burden for Small Vehicles: Roof rails might prove too heavy for compact cars or hatchbacks, negatively affecting the vehicle’s performance or even potentially straining its structure.

Importance of Choosing the Right Roof Rack

Choosing the right roof rack for your vehicle can indeed be a game-changer. It enhances your car's utility and aesthetic appeal. A poorly chosen or installed roof rack, on the other hand, can lead to many of the cons we have previously discussed.

While purchasing roof racks, consider factors such as their weight and quality. Lightweight racks are easier to install and won't add unnecessary weight to your automobile. Quality is equally important; a good-quality rack will likely last longer and provide better protection against weather elements.

Brand reputation should also influence your decision. Opting for brands known for their durability and customer satisfaction might initially cost you slightly more, but providing hassle-free service will pay off in the long run. 

Most importantly, remember that proper installation is crucial. An incorrectly installed roof rack could cause noise, increased fuel consumption, or even risk detaching while driving. 

Conclusion

Concluding this enlightening journey into the world of roof rails, their uses and their significant impact on vehicle functionality, we've helped you unravel the intricate layers surrounding this topic. From understanding what roof rails are to how they alter your vehicle's aesthetics and capacity, we have walked alongside you, dismantling each aspect. 

The benefits of roof rails range from providing additional cargo space to enhancing the overall look of your vehicle. On the flip side, they can potentially increase fuel consumption and may not be suitable for compact cars or hatchbacks. As we have emphasised throughout, it is crucial to consider these pros and cons based on your specific requirements and vehicle specifications before deciding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few common questions and their answers related to the Roof Rails

Q1. Are roof rails worth it?

Yes, the biggest advantage of roof rails is that they add more space to your vehicle. With roof rails installed, you won't have to worry about overcrowding your trunk because you can put some of your luggage on the roof. 

Q2. Do roof rails make noise?

Yes, when air rushes through open slots or channels in roof rails, it can produce a high-pitched noise.

Q3. Is roof rail good for cars?

While having a roof rail is a car owner's choice, it is highly recommended to have one as it allows one to carry items that might not fit inside your car.

Q4. Is roof rail legal in India?

The Motor Vehicle Act 1988 does not prohibit the installation of luggage carriers atop private four-wheelers to carry the luggage of passengers in that vehicle.

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