Aunt Minnie
Member
- Joined
- Jan 28, 2020
- Threads
- 2
- Messages
- 11
- Reaction score
- 5
- Location
- Mequon, WI
- Vehicle(s)
- 2020 JLUR 2.0T
- Thread starter
- #1
I am in the process of selecting a roof rack for my 2020 JLU. The requirements for the rack are as follows:
The Pioneer Platform is no doubt sexy as hell...it fits the entire "overland" aesthetic much better than standard bars. If I'm being honest, the platform looks A TON better than standard crossbars. However, after evaluating my typical use scenario, I question the platform's practicality and why it is so popular amongst bloggers and others on this forum.
Can someone please enlighten me on what major advantages the Pioneer offers over crossbars? Not trying to be snarky, just trying to understand the practical differences before making a sizeable investment for my vehicle. I am leaning crossbars given my use scenario, just want to make sure I'm not missing the boat on some obvious advantage that the platform offers.
- High static and dynamic load capacity
- Allows for easy hardtop removal using TopLift Pro hoist (I like to cruise topless frequently in the summer)
- Versatile enough for extended overlanding trips, car camping, interstate road trips to Florida and family outings
- Needs to be able to mount an RTT, bicycle mount, Yakima/Thule style rooftop cargo box (not all simultaneously)
- Would be nice to be able to mount a few aux lights and a sunshade, although not an absolute necessity
The Pioneer Platform is no doubt sexy as hell...it fits the entire "overland" aesthetic much better than standard bars. If I'm being honest, the platform looks A TON better than standard crossbars. However, after evaluating my typical use scenario, I question the platform's practicality and why it is so popular amongst bloggers and others on this forum.
- It appears to be very difficult to mount certain types of accessories to the platform without serious modification. Examples include most rooftop tents and many rooftop cargo boxes, which rely on clamps that wrap underneath a crossbar for attachment. I have read posts and watched videos where people detail having to drill into the platform to mount an RTT.
- Unless one upgrades to the taller "quick release" style mounting feet, it appears that there is very little clearance between the vehicle roof and platform, making mounting/dismounting of certain accessories a PITA (i.e. RTT). This seems to be a deal-breaker, unless one plans to leave their RTT permanently mounted to the platform. While the quick release mounting feet would allow easier access to the underside of the platform, they are more $$$ and raise the vehicle's center of gravity.
- It appears that many mainstream rooftop accessories (RTT, bike mounts, kayak and ski/snowboard mounts, cargo boxes) are designed for use with crossbars.
Can someone please enlighten me on what major advantages the Pioneer offers over crossbars? Not trying to be snarky, just trying to understand the practical differences before making a sizeable investment for my vehicle. I am leaning crossbars given my use scenario, just want to make sure I'm not missing the boat on some obvious advantage that the platform offers.
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