Proper length of load bars on roof rack

[delta447]

Hi everyone. I want to add a Thule roof rack system to my wife’s 2011 X5 (Premium model). When I used the fitment guide on rackattack.com, I was advised to go with either the standard 57” load bars or the premium 53” load bars. I measured the distance between the two racks and it is only 43”. I know that I can get shorter standard and premium load bars that won’t stick out so much on either side of the vehicle. I have also looked at other X5’s on this forum and I don’t see the load bars extending very far over the factory railings. Does anyone have an idea of what length load bar works best on the X5? Thanks in advance.

[omasou]

If you have the raised roof rails and are using the 450 Crossroad Railing Foot Pack w/the the square load bars you need 58" load bars. They do not make 57" load bars. You will have ~ 4" of load bar extending outside of each foot and no you cannot use 50" load bars.

Your measurement is not taking into account the amount of load bar that is secured in each foot.

[delta447]

Thank you. I am finally ready to take the plunge.

[blue dragon]

Why not get the OEM bars, they are cheaper than the Thule bars, and don't stick out.

[delta447]

Good point. I had considered the OEM bars and I like the look of them. I decided to go with the Thule system and box b/c I already have the Thule Revolver bike rack. By going this route, I can order an extra set of locks and use one key for everything. Also, I read on the BMW website that the OEM bars are secured by coded bolts. I think those are probably easier to defeat than key locks and the key for the coded bolts is one more thing I have to keep track of. The single key for all of the Thule products can go on the ring with the key fob for the X5 and I don't have to worry about keeping track of it. Besides that, I am really happy with the Revolver bike rack, so I am a fan of Thule products now.

Now if I could figure out how to mount all of this stuff on my 335, life would be sweet.

[JCL]

I have used the Thule 450 feet and the rectangular load bars on three different vehicles. They are easy to trim to length with a hacksaw if you don't want as much sticking out. You can make them just about flush (the end caps need about an inch to attach)