Anyone have recommendations for a Chevy Bolt EV roof rack?

Electric & Hybrid Vehicles
1

I’m on the hunt for a roof rack for my Chevy Bolt EV and could really use some advice from fellow owners. With all the outdoor trips planned this summer, I want to make sure I have a reliable option for transporting gear.

What to Look For

  1. Compatibility: First and foremost, I need to find a roof rack that’s specifically designed for the Bolt EV. I’ve heard some racks don’t fit well or cause issues, so any insights on this would be super helpful.
  2. Load Capacity: It’s important to know how much weight these roof racks can handle. I want to ensure I can fit all my camping gear without risking safety.
  3. Installation: I’m a bit of a DIY enthusiast but want to avoid anything too complicated. If there are certain brands that are easier to install, please share!
  4. Aerodynamics & Noise: I’ve read that some roof racks can increase wind noise or reduce efficiency. Any personal experiences on how different racks perform would be appreciated.

Recommendations?

If anyone has recommendations or personal experiences with specific models that work well on the Chevy Bolt EV, please let me know. Links to products, installation tips, or even what to avoid would be great. Also, if you’ve purchased one recently, how’s it holding up?

Thanks in advance for your help!

2

I recently installed the Thule Rapid Crossroad on my Bolt EV, and it’s worked perfectly! Installation was straightforward and took about 30 minutes.

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3

I’ve heard great things about Thule! Do you think it affects aerodynamics at high speeds?

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4

I went with the Yakima JetStream. It’s super quiet on the road and pretty easy to set up. Anyone else have experience with Yakima?

5

I’m considering the Yakima as well! Do you have the locks with it too?

6

I actually found the Rhino-Rack Vortex bars great for my needs. The installation directions could be clearer, but once you get the hang of it, no problems at all!

7

I love Rhino-Rack too! Do you use it for bike transport or something else?

8

I’ve been using the Inno aero base rack. It’s sturdy and holds my kayak well. Installation was a breeze, so I’d recommend it to anyone!

9

Solid choice! Any tips for securing the kayak to it?

10

I went with a budget option, the ProBikeTool rack. It works fine but can be a bit wobbly at high speeds. You get what you pay for, I guess!

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11

Good call on budget racks! But those wobbles can be nerve-wracking, right?

12

I just installed a SeaSucker rack. It’s a vacuum mount system and very easy to install, but some folks think it’s not as secure. But I haven’t had any issues!

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13

Sounds interesting! Does it hold well on bumpy roads?

14

I think all of these racks show different strengths! Each driver’s needs are unique. Based on experiences, I’d recommend researching what fits your lifestyle best.

15

I’m looking for a roof rack too! But before you buy, don’t forget to check the weight limits for the Chevy Bolt EV. It’s typically around 150 lbs. You don’t want to exceed those limits.

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16

Great point, robert14! It’s also essential to consider how the weight on the roof can affect your vehicle’s aerodynamics and handling.

17

Absolutely! Improper loading can lead to safety issues. Always distribute the weight evenly and avoid overloading. This can also impact your range with an EV like the Bolt.

18

Yes, weight distribution is key! Does anyone know if there are specific brands of roof racks that fit the Bolt well?

19

I think Thule makes a solid roof rack option for the Bolt. It’s sturdy and has good reviews regarding weight handling. Just double-check the specs!

20

Thanks gbennett! I’m all for quality. Has anyone experienced any change in range when using a roof rack?