Cartop carriers besides Yakima and Thule
 

Do I have any choices outside of Yakima and Thule? I'm looking for a box 90" long but not more than 26" wide. The only option of sufficient capacity is the Yakima Rocketbox. Nice, but not great because it only opens on one side and has old style mounting hardware. I just borrowed a 12 cu/ft Thule evolution and I like it very much. Any ideas anyone? I need to fit at least a cargo box and two bikes, or a cargo box and a 39" wide canoe.

I have a Mont Blanc, but it's not the right size for you. But, they make a wide line, you might want to see if they have something to suit you. I like mine, and it seems of high quality.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/off-topic-discussion/71185-alaska-no-bust.html

Thule is my favorite. Some people have had success with the other stuff, but the model specific fit makes for a very sturdy rack. I carried a sofa bed from Brunswick to Portland maine on my roof on a Thule rack (on an old escort wagon no less) It was a good thing some drunk people were wandering around the street when I got home to Portland (western prom) or it would probably still be on that car... Thanks drunks!

I've found Thule parts, trays, towers, locks, etc, (but no cargo boxes) at random junkyards, and usually the people there will give the lot to you for $10-$20. better than ebay!

I think Thules boxes are more robust and better aerodynamically. Plus, they seem to rattle less and have easier assembly/construction. Mostly personal pref. though...

Besides those, there is always the Sears Ex-Cargo Clamshell. Buy them for a song at move-in time at the local college or uni. No parent wants to drive home with an empty plastic box flapping around on the roof.

cheers,
k

I have a thule roof rack on my volvo wagon. I understand thule is pronounced "too-lee"? so does this mean thor is pronounced "tor"?