Will Rhino-Rack Roof Rack For 2020 Subaru Forester w/ Raised Side Rails Fit Roofnest Condor XL Tent

Published 03/20/2022

Question:

I have a 2020 Subaru Forester sport with raised side rails and I’m looking at purchasing a Roofnest condor xl. The weight of that tent is listed at 160 pounds and 55 inches wide. Will the rhino tack crossbars work for this tent? If not any suggestions? Thanks!

asked by: Trey T

Expert Reply:

Yes, the Rhino-Rack roof rack that fits your 2020 Subaru Forester will indeed allow you to use a Roofnest Condor XL that is 160 lbs and 55 inches wide. First, here is the roof rack you'll need for your '20 Forester for the Rhino-Rack:

- Rhino-Rack Vortex Roof Rack # RR97XE

As for why it will work, I checked with Roofnest, and they say the rack set up needs to be rated for at least the weight of the tent, and this rack has a 165 lb dynamic capacity, so it is more than the 160 lb tent. They also say the crossbars just need to be spaced at least 30 inches apart, and since your Subaru has raised side rails, you can easily get them that far apart, in fact you can get them up to 48 inches apart.

This tent also has mounting rails 32" apart in width, so the 49" Rhino-Rack crossbars are long enough. Aside from just being compatible with your tent, Rhino-Rack is a really smart choice for a rack on your Forester because it is the best overall value for a roof rack. Rhino-Rack's quality is equal to similar brands, but at a better price point because you aren't paying extra for a specific brand name printed on the crossbars.

expert reply by: Kyle S