Posted: 10:39 am, March 14, 2024 by Access Publishing
You probably love road trips and driving adventures in your Ford Bronco. In that case, adding a roof rack to your Ford Bronco opens up possibilities. A good roof rack provides secure storage for gear on top of your vehicle and enables adventures to places near and far.
When choosing the right roof rack, you’ll want to consider factors like your Bronco model year, budget, intended use, and ease of installation. This can be an exciting decision! For that reason, you deserve a roof rack that meets your needs.
A high-quality, durable rack gives you peace of mind that your gear stays in place on rugged trails. This guide explores four great roof rack options for Broncos. By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each, you’ll find an option that fits your Bronco perfectly.
1. Ford Bronco Sport (Badlands/First Edition) (2021-Current) Slimline II Roof Rail Rack Kit
The Slimline II roof rail rack kit should top your list if you drive a 2021 or newer Bronco Sport Badlands or First Edition model. This sturdy, lightweight rack has a sleek profile and mounts directly onto existing side rails using clamps for easy no-drill installation.
With a price tag of $1,139, this Ford Bronco roof rack offers excellent value. The full-size 1358mm cargo tray provides ample space to transport your gear while freeing up the interior room. Moreover, the included wind deflector helps safeguard cargo.
Installation is straightforward with the included grab-on feet that attach to factory roof rails, requiring no drilling. Consequently, you can remove the rack without damaging your Bronco Sport’s roof or rails. The rack is built tough with T6 aluminum and high-strength steel to withstand adventures, and a limited lifetime warranty provides comfort.
Accordingly, the kit’s 88 lb weight capacity gives you flexibility in loading without exceeding limits. You should distribute weight evenly across the tray without overhangs for best results. Although suited for light-duty off-roading, this roof rack kit works better for everyday use than extreme terrain.
2. Ford Bronco (1966 to 1977) Slimline II Roof Rack Kit
The Slimline II roof rack kit offers vintage styling if your Bronco is a classic from the first five production runs between 1966 and 1977. The distressed powder-coated finish lends a period-correct look while providing modern function.
With a price tag of $1,749, the Slimline II roof rack kit offers you a full-size, durable cargo-carrying solution for your classic Ford Bronco. The 1964 mm long powder-coated aluminum tray installs easily with no drilling required, using eight gutter mount legs to attach securely to your vehicle. Furthermore, the kit includes a wind deflector to help reduce wind noise as you connect with nature.
You should note that the rack stands about 76mm tall from the rain gutters, allowing sufficient clearance for most purposes. Additionally, the t-slots on the tray accommodate standard 8mm bolts for securing cargo. Therefore, you gain a customizable and stable platform for transporting oversized items like luggage, camping gear, and sports equipment on your Bronco’s roof.
3. 2021-2024 Ford Bronco 4-Door Soft Top Rack with Oversized Molle Panels
This rugged roof rack maximizes storage flexibility if you have a 2021 or newer four-door Bronco with a factory soft top. This modular rack securely mounts a rooftop tent for your overland adventures with a heavy gauge steel construction and adjustable crossbars.
The oversized Molle panels provide ample attachment points to mount additional cargo like gas cans, traction boards, or other Molle accessories.
Installation is straightforward, with a bolt-on design utilizing your Bronco’s factory mounting points. Accordingly, you can install the rack without drilling in around 60 minutes with essential hand tools. Moreover, the rack is easily removable in under 30 minutes when not needed. The adjustable crossbars accommodate most soft and hard-shell rooftop tents, whether small or large.
Additionally, integrated mounting points allow easy LED light installation to illuminate your campsite or off-road trail. With a weight capacity of up to 625 pounds static and 265 pounds dynamic, this heavy-duty rack securely transports your rooftop cargo. The durable textured finish and 3-year warranty provide long-lasting performance for your overlanding adventures.
4. Bronco 4DR 2021-2024 OE Roof Rack
With a price tag of $895, the Bronco 4DR 2021-2024 OE Roof Rack is one of the best roof rack options for your Ford Bronco. This production-style roof rack will allow you more adventures with your Bronco, including side rails, crossbars, a roof rack tool, and all the necessary mounting hardware.
Accordingly, you are getting the same reliable OEM roof rack that can be ordered directly from the Ford factory. You’ll have a roof rack solution designed specifically for your Bronco model years 2021-2024 by choosing this rack. The kit conveniently includes all the components and hardware needed for a complete installation.
However, note that this roof rack is incompatible with the Badlands 4-door model with a 2.7L engine. Additionally, it is not for use with any Bronco Raptor models. Still, for most four-door 2021-2024 Ford Bronco owners, this high-quality factory roof rack is an ideal upgrade to carry more gear on outdoor journeys.
Conclusion
Adding a roof rack opens up vast possibilities for your Ford Bronco on and off-road. Excellent rack options exist if you drive a new Bronco Sport, vintage first-gen, or brand-new model. Choosing the right one comes from your budget, specific Bronco, intended use, and priorities.
Share To Social Media
Posted in: Special Report
About the author: Access Publishing
Scott Brennan is the publisher of this newspaper and founder of Access Publishing. Connect with him on Paso Robles Daily News on Google, Twitter, LinkedIn, or follow his blog.