Roof Rack / Bars

K

Kine

Registered User
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I have an 09 Focus and I'm looking for some roof bars / rack (what's the difference?!) and a decent box for holiday travel.

There's a bit of talk online about the mk2 model focus etc, how do I know what one mine is? Also, any recommendations would be much appreciated, as hopefully I can find a set on ebay, I just want to ensure I get some that will fit / work.

Cheers
 
I have a 01 FOCUS with roof bars. From memory they were sold on the basis of the year of manufacture, rather than the 'Mark'.

AFAIK, a roof rack is more substantial than roof bars. It provided a 'cradle' into which multiple objects can be placed and secured. I'd say they're rare at this stage; roof bars and more specialised apparatus has replaced them.

You could always go to somewhere like Halfords for advice and then choose to buy elsewhere ? You wouldn't be the first ;) !
 
We have only ever used a roof rack and never a box. A few friends have told me that the boxes don't hold an awful lot and everything has to be well wrapped in possibly black sacks as the rain can get into them quite easily and leave things soaked.
 
Thule bars/carriers are top quality. Sites like Mick's garage or Roof Rack Shop have guides to help you choose the parts that fit your car. Focus 2004-2010 is the mk2, whether you have saloon/estate/hatchback will guide which exact mount you need.

Generally, you buy bars, then you buy the 4 mounting packs that are specific to your car and fit the bars to these.

A good roof box will be waterproof so long as they don't take too much abuse. If you won't have a lot of use for them, I believe some places rent them out. There are newer ones on the market, more like canvas bags that fold up when not in use (so don't take up the entire shed for 11+ months of the year).
 
Leo,

Many thanks - useful links to at least start me on the journey!

K
 
If you put clothes in heavy duty plastic bags and release the air with a suction pump you can fit a lot in the box leaving the space in your car and boot for other items ie. kids toys and gear
 
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