Recommended Roof Rack for Basket and Bag on 2017 Honda Pilot with Bare Roof

Published 01/31/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 54" Long - Qty 2

(2754)

$239.98

Custom DK Fit Kit for 4 Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Roof Rack Legs - Naked Roof

(3341)

$129.99

Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars - Naked Roofs or Fixed Mounting Points - Qty 4

(8964)

$234.99

Question:

I have a 2017 Honda Pilot without an OEM Roof Rack. We are looking for a roof rack,to install a carrier and waterproof bag. There are some many options it’s gets confusing. Is it better to install a roof rack system permanently or to have that can be removed. Can the one that is removable withstand the weight plus wind resistance the same a s permanent roof rack.Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

asked by: Billy P

Expert Reply:

Any of the aftermarket roof racks we offer that are designed to fit your 2017 Honda Pilot can be pretty easily removed if desired, but all still have the capacity to safely support a carrier and bag during travel. In fact with most roof rack systems (even "temporary" systems) you will really be limited by the capacity of the Pilot's roof itself, as the roof racks are generally rated higher.

I took a look at the online version of the owner's manual for your Pilot and it does list a 165 pound weight capacity for cargo loaded onto the roof via a roof rack. I do recommend verifying this in your copy of the manual as well.

If your Honda Pilot has a completely bare roof, I highly recommend the Rhino-Rack Vortex Roof Rack that consists of # RRVA137B-2 for the two 54" Vortex Bars, # RRRLKVA for the Mounting Feet, and # DK444 for the Custom Fit Kit, which is what actually attaches to the bare roof and clamps down over the door jambs.

I really like the Rhino-Rack Vortex systems because they offer the same premium benefits of the "higher-end" systems at a much lower cost. The aerodynamic bars will be extremely quiet on the road and the integrated locks (usually an add-on for most other racks) will help protect your investments. The roof rack system sports a 165 pound weight capacity, matching the limit on the vehicle itself.

I'm not sure if you already have a cargo basket but if not, I recommend taking a look at the Rhino-Rack # RMCB02. This durable basket measures 57" long, 42-13/16" wide, 5-7/8" tall, and includes an integrated fairing piece at the front to reduce wind noise. It will work perfectly with a roof bag like the waterproof Rhino-Rack # RRLB350.

I have attached a few video demonstrations on these products below, along with a couple of links that will take you to our full selections of cargo baskets and roof bags that you can look through.