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Roof racks
Car roof bars: for roof rails, bare roofs and OE
Roof bars, also known as roof racks, are the base for transporting everything that does not fit inside your car: roof boxes, bike racks, ski racks and cargo carriers are all mounted here. Menabo manufactures them in Italy in two materials, steel (more robust and economical) and aluminium (lighter and more aerodynamic), with grooves for quick installation and an integrated anti-theft lock. The choice depends on the type of roof on your car: with roof rails, bare or with original equipment (OE) preparation. Enter the make, model and year of your vehicle and find the compatible roof bars straight away.
What are roof bars used for?
Roof bars transform your car’s roof into a load-carrying surface. On their own, they can support flat loads such as boards or ladders, but above all they provide a base for other roof accessories: you can mount roof boxes, bike racks, ski racks and kayak carriers.They are the first purchase to make if you want to increase your vehicle’s load capacity without giving up interior space.
With rails, a smooth roof or OE: which type is right for your car?
The type of roof bar depends on your car’s roof configuration. Roof bars for vehicles with rails attach to the longitudinal rails already fitted to the roof. Roof bars for smooth roofs are installed using dedicated kits on roofs without rails, using the vehicle’s anchoring points. OE roof bars are designed for vehicles with the manufacturer’s original roof preparation. If you are not sure which type you need, the configurator identifies it based on your vehicle’s details. .
Aluminium or steel: how do you choose the right material?
Aluminium is lighter and more aerodynamic: it reduces noise and fuel consumption and is the most popular choice. Steel is more robust and economical, making it suitable for those who use their roof intensively. Both materials, in Menabo roof bars, feature an integrated anti-theft lock and a quick-mounting system. Menabo aluminium roof bars.
Load capacity and safety: what do you need to know?
The usable load capacity depends not only on the roof bars but also on the roof load limit specified in your car’s owner’s manual: always use the lower of the two values. The load must be distributed evenly and securely fastened, as it affects handling and fuel consumption while driving. Menabo roof bars are made in Italy and tested in accordance with safety standards, and each product page provides the specifications for the individual model. .
Universal roof bars: do they really exist?
Truly universal roof bars do not exist: every car has different mounting points and roof geometry. Models described as universal are systems that can be adapted to multiple vehicles using specific fitting kits. To avoid mistakes, start with your vehicle: enter the make, model and year, and the configurator will show only the compatible roof bars.
FAQ — Main category: roof bars for cars
Roof bars or roof racks: what’s the difference?
There is no difference: they are the same product, just two different names. “Roof racks” is the term most commonly used in searches and the one you will find on the website, while “roof bars” is the more conversational variant. At Menabo, you choose them according to your car’s roof type (with rails, smooth roof or OE) using the configurator at the top of the page.
What is the difference between roof bars for vehicles with rails, smooth roofs and OE?
The type of roof bar depends on your car’s roof configuration. Roof bars for vehicles with rails attach to the longitudinal rails already fitted to the roof; those for smooth roofs are installed using dedicated kits on roofs without rails, using the vehicle’s mounting points; OE roof bars are designed for vehicles with the manufacturer’s original roof preparation. The configurator identifies the correct type based on your vehicle’s details.
How do I know which roof bars are compatible with my car?
Enter the make, model, year, number of doors, and roof type into the configurator at the top of the page. The system displays only the roof bars compatible with your vehicle. If your car does not appear in the options, no product is currently available for that model.
How much weight can Menabo roof bars support?
The load capacity is specified on the product sheet for each bar and must be cross-referenced with the roof load limit listed in your vehicle's manual; the lower of the two values always applies. Remember to distribute the load evenly and secure it firmly, as it affects road holding and fuel consumption while driving.
Are universal roof bars suitable for any car?
No, there are no roof bars that fit every car indiscriminately. Models described as "universal" are systems adaptable to multiple vehicles using specific kits, but they still must be selected based on the type of roof. To avoid mistakes, start with your vehicle and use the configurator, which filters for compatible bars only.
Can I mount bike racks, ski racks, or roof boxes on the roof bars?
Yes, roof bars serve as the base for attaching other roof accessories. You can mount Menabo roof boxes, bike racks, ski racks, and kayak carriers on them, provided you check the accessory's compatibility with the specific bar model. It is the most flexible way to adapt your car's roof to any transport need.
Made in Italy Leisure Time Car Accessories
Menabo is the Italian brand appreciated for its distinctive design and superior quality. For over 50 years, we have been producing car accessories such as bike racks, ski racks, roof boxes and baskets, roof racks, and water sport solutions. Each of our products, made entirely in Italy, is certified according to the strictest safety standards. Innovation, safety and quality are our main goals, guaranteeing customers reliable and stylish accessories.
Menabo Quality and Safety
Every detail of Menabo's products is carefully considered, from design to production. Our accessories for pick-ups, commercial vehicles, 4x4, and garage organisation, as well as backpacks, bags and outdoor living solutions, reflect our commitment to quality. Made from selected materials and subjected to rigorous safety tests, Menabo products represent the excellence of Made in Italy for leisure and sport.
download the catalog
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customer care
Download our catalog to stay up-to-date on all new product releases.
Do you need help?
For faster assistance, please contact us by email at: customercare@flli-menabo.it, always including the batch number and part codes. The same information is required for phone support at +39 0522 1750280 (Hours: 8:15–12:15, 12:45–16:45).
download the catalog
Download our catalog to stay up-to-date on all new product releases.
customer care
Do you need help?
For faster assistance, please contact us by email at: customercare@flli-menabo.it, always including the batch number and part codes. The same information is required for phone support at +39 0522 1750280 (Hours: 8:15–12:15, 12:45–16:45).