Does The HandiRack Universal Inflatable Roof Bars Approach Work?
Roof racks are a must have item for many families that like to travel and adventure outdoors – but the HandiRack Universal Inflatable Roof Bars want us all to do things a little differently.
Many motorists are used to the standard form of roof rack that we use to secure luggage and equipment to the car. These racks can be a problem in terms of installation and damage to good.
This inflatable version aims to eliminate those risks while providing a strong, reliable way to load up the car. It is an interesting idea, but does it actually work?
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The Pros and Cons of the HandiRack Universal Inflatable Roof Bars.
Pros:
- It inflates really quickly thanks to pump included in the box
- It is stronger than it looks with a good weight allowance
- It is built to fit all kinds of cars
- It is easier to install than many traditional racks
- A Storage pouch for when the racks are deflated.
Cons:
- Some users would like the diameter to be better
- Some struggled in wet weather
- Punctures aren’t completely avoidable.
The idea behind the HandiRack Universal Inflatable Roof Rack Bars is great for families that want an easier approach.
One of the proposed benefits to this system is the idea that it is much safer for your cargo. The soft, inflatable system is less likely to scratch on damage any items placed on the roof of the car.
There is a 420 denier nylon that is soft but also tough enough to withstand damage. This means that there should be little risk of the racks popping on the route.
The tough materials also mean that there is a larger load capacity than some buyers might expect of 180 pounds.
Then there is the ease of installation. The racks come with a high volume double action pump that inflates each section in no time at all.
The inflatable design and shape of the racks mean that they can fit almost any roof type – the designers have to say “almost” because there is sure to be some vehicle where it doesn’t work. This means that his system is interchangeable.
Therefore, there can be one set per family. It can fit on a smaller family estate for weekend trips to the countryside or onto the family SUV when heading out on longer camping trips to the countryside. This is ideal if plans change and you suddenly need a bigger car or a different approach for the trip.
There is also the fact that this product is deflatable, with a handy little storage pouch. This is great for those months when the racks aren’t really necessary and a traditional set would add unnecessary weight to the car.
There are some users that have struggled with this HandiRack Inflatable Car Roof Rack.
Not all user experiences with this car roof bar are positive. There is a small minority that found that their inflatable racks developed punctures. This may not happen for years, or you could just be unlucky with the wrong items on the rack or over-inflation.
There are also some that say that the function of these tubes would be improved with a greater diameter and more tape to hold them down.
On the subject of the straps. There have been complaints about the way that users have has to keep the windows open to feed the straps through and secure the rack.
This is reliable in good weather but does run the risk of water coming into the vehicle on wetter days. Therefore, some users may struggle to use this system all year round.
Is this HandiRack Roof Bar still recommendable with all these pros and cons in mind?
There is a lot to like about this concept. At their core, these racks are easy to install and provide a great alternative to the heavier, more cumbersome racks we are used to. Those that don’t suffer from accidental punctures can appreciate the function and durability of the product.
However, there is that clear problem with the straps and use in wet weather. Families can benefit greatly from the interchangeable, storable design – but less so in winter. This means that the HandiRack roof bars may be a great idea in need of a little more work.
Find more reviews about the HandiRack Universal Inflatable Roof Bars on Amazon here.