OEM roof rack surprise…

[JaredM]

Some folks have commented about the “missing” OEM roof rack slat. Yes, there’s only 4. And I was eventually going to order one to fit it in. BUT on a trip this past weekend I found an interesting quirk, and not sure if it was intended with the original design. You see, two medium size duffel bags fit like money in that void. Nice and low, locked in so to speak. I ran a strap across them using the side cutouts and both bags held perfectly. On the flat slats I secured a few folding chairs and a Pelican med case. Based on my findings, I don’t think I’m gonna order the 5th slat after all!

 

[Alpha Puppy]

Some folks have commented about the “missing” OEM roof rack slat. Yes, there’s only 4. And I was eventually going to order one to fit it in. BUT on a trip this past weekend I found an interesting quirk, and not sure if it was intended with the original design. You see, two medium size duffel bags fit like money in that void. Nice and low, locked in so to speak. I ran a strap across them using the side cutouts and both bags held perfectly. On the flat slats I secured a few folding chairs and a Pelican med case. Based on my findings, I don’t think I’m gonna order the 5th slat after all!

Probably gonna scratch up the paint or dent the roof no?

 

[Nostr0m0]

Probably gonna scratch up the paint or dent the roof no?

Based on my experiences working at a Harley dealership, I wouldn't let a duffel bag rest on the paint for a trip. Seen rear fenders of biked that customers left duffel bags rest on them while strapped to the sissy bar scratched all to shit. If I was to do this, there'd at a minimum be a large microfiber towel separating the bags from the roof.

 

[JaredM]

Based on my experiences working at a Harley dealership, I wouldn't let a duffel bag rest on the paint for a trip. Seen rear fenders of biked that customers left duffel bags rest on them while strapped to the sissy bar scratched all to shit. If I was to do this, there'd at a minimum be a large microfiber towel separating the bags from the roof.

Yeah I hear ya but ain’t worried about it too much. It’s the roof.

 

[Bedawson]

Yeah I hear ya but ain’t worried about it too much. It’s the roof.

If the paint wears, that can lead to rust. if you're not worried about dents, and possible unwanted noise, I would look into some vinyl to throw on the roof to prevent scratches/rust.