I need a roof rack to haul my skis & bicycle.

I think I'll go with the THULE.

A few questions?

Do the roof pads tend to scratch the roof? (should I put some clear bra on the roof in the pad areas)?

Are they quick and easy to install?

Is there much wind noise @ 100mph?

 

You should definitely clean the areas under the pads before putting the rack on. As long as there is no dirt to grind in, you shouldn't have a problem. Putting some kind of coating material on may not be easy due to the plastic strip and gutter channel.

Easy, yes. Quick? You will get better each time with experience, but it shouldn't take more than ten minutes.

I have no idea! But if wind noise is a concern, consider getting the Thule deflector accessory.

 

My guess is that no roof rack manufacturer that wants to stay in business would permit their rack to be used at 100mph. Thule is quite clear on this point. They say obey all posted speed limits, failure to do so will void the warranty. Their racks are not designed to be used at 100mph. I'm guessing the 100mph part of your question was a joke. You wouldn't really drive 100mph with skis or a bike attached to your roof, would you? If you did, you'd need Maaco, not clear bra, and the guy behind you would need it too. And maybe a doctor and lawyer to boot!

As too often recommended on this forum. Drive safely and do the excessive speed antics at the track.

 

[QUOTE=XcarGO]
Do the roof pads tend to scratch the roof? (should I put some clear bra on the roof in the pad areas)?
[QUOTE]

The pads that touch your paint will eventually damage it. The salt and grime will get under the pads and the vibration will dull the sheen. Given enough time it would wear through the clear coat, metallic flecks would oxidize.

It would be well worth the time to apply a small section of clear film where each pad will sit. Buy some raw sheet material from an installer or online and cut pieces with an Xacto.

A piece that small will be easy to apply. Spray the adhesive side with alchohol/water mix, lay it onto the location and lightly squeegee out water under the film. I would encourage you to get the full details of installation online. Just apply to painted areas, skip the rubber seam rather than trying to bridge it.

 

Many years ago, I used Thule racks for all my vehicles. When they started rusting badly under the plastic coating, I started looking at alternatives. About 10 years ago, I switched over to Yakima. The Yakimas seem to stand up better over the long run, and unlike the Thules with heavier loads, don't bend as much. Also, with things like ski racks, etc. you can rotate the rack 90 degrees to reduce aerodynamic drag a bit.

The Yakima racks are worth a look if you're considering Thule.

 

I've had a set of Yakima racks on my car for about 4 years. Before mounting them I used some of this stuff under the mounting pads to protect the paint. So far no problems. http://www.griotsgarage.com/search.j...21&search.y=10 Bought about 12" of the 2' wide stuff, measured so it is about an inch longer than necessary to give some leeway in mounting the racks.

 

I'm guessing the 100mph part of your question was a joke.

calejohnson,
You guessed correctly. But thanks for your concern.