VEVOR CT-5501 Universal Roof Rack Cross Bars: specs and who they suit

The VEVOR CT-5501 is a pair of aluminium cross bars for vehicles with a bare roof, meaning no raised rails, flush rails or black moulding strips. They attach by hooking into the door frame area and give you a platform for cargo boxes, bikes, surfboards or a canoe. Because fitment is the main question with any universal rack, this page goes through the numbers first.

How the fitment works

Bare-roof racks usually clamp onto the door frame with adjustable hooks instead of bolting to rails. VEVOR gives two measurements. The compatible inner rain gutter spacing is 43.3 to 44.5 in (1100 to 1130 mm), and the adjustable hook range is 49.2 to 56.3 in (1250 to 1430 mm). VEVOR says it fits most vehicles with a bare roof.

In practice, measure your own roof before ordering. Both figures need to match your vehicle, and roof shape, door frames and trim vary between models.

What the 165 lb capacity covers

The load capacity is 165 lb (about 75 kg). That is the figure for the bars themselves, and a vehicle has its own roof load limit in the owner's manual, which may be lower. The lower of the two is the one to follow. This total also includes the weight of any box or carrier you mount on the bars.

The listing notes a maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph) and suggests windproof covers or safety nets for large items. Tie down loads carefully, and recheck them during a trip.

Aluminium bars and low wind noise

The bars are one-piece aluminium with internal ribs, which VEVOR says resists rust and deformation without adding much weight. The tube shape is aerodynamic, and VEVOR says it helps reduce drag and wind noise. Round or square bars usually make more noise than shaped ones, but any roof load changes how a vehicle sounds and handles. The mounting feet are made of PP plastic, described as rustproof and resilient.

Locks

The bars have a metal lock system with two keys. VEVOR says that once locked, the bars will not loosen or shift. A lock mainly discourages casual removal of the rack. Check the fit and the tightness of the hooks regularly, especially after the first trips.

Size and weight

The package measures about 43.3 x 6.9 x 3.7 in and weighs 9 lb (about 4 kg), so the pair is light enough for one person to fit. Adding a rack changes a vehicle's height, so remember this for garages and car parks.

Who it suits

It suits owners of vehicles with a bare roof who want to carry occasional bulky items such as a cargo box, bikes, kayaks or surfboards. It is not for vehicles that already have raised or flush rails.

What to check before you buy

• Your roof measurements: compare them with both the gutter spacing and the hook range above.
• Roof type: confirm that the roof is bare, with no rails or moulding strips.
• Weight limits: find the roof load limit in your vehicle's manual and subtract the weight of carriers.
• Accessories: check that any box, bike carrier or canoe mount fits the bar shape.
• Fitting and upkeep: follow the instructions, retighten as directed and keep the spare keys safe.
• Driving: stay within the listed speed and consider your vehicle's height.

The short version

• Universal aluminium cross bars for bare roofs, model CT-5501.
• Rated at 165 lb (75 kg), with a listed maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
• Gutter spacing of 43.3 to 44.5 in, and a hook range of 49.2 to 56.3 in.
• Lockable, with two keys and rustproof PP feet.
• Measure your roof before ordering.

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