Comparing Yakima and Thule Roof Racks for 2005 Subaru Legacy GT Wagon with Flush Side Rails

Updated 10/23/2013 | Published 10/19/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima Same Key System (SKS) Lock Cores (QTY 4)

(478)

$69.95

Replacement End Caps for Yakima RoundBars - Qty 4

(127)

$12.92

Question:

I was looking for a set of crossbars for my 2005 Subaru Legacy GT Wagon in your website and found the following two options: Yakima RaiGrab Rail Rack - 2005 Subaru Legacy Wagon with flush mounted rails that run from front to back Part Numbers: Y00408, Y00138 Thule Roof Rack - 2005 Subaru Legacy Wagon with a factory roof rack Part Numbers: TH440, THSR2 Questions: 1. I dont quite understand the difference between above two especially the descriptions in the parenthesis. My Wagon has factory flush mounted rails which are not raised from the roof, does this mean my only option is Yakima? 2. I would definitely require key lock for my crossbar set, do both come with locks if I purchase either set? 3. Yakima is round bars and Thule is square bars? Which one is better? I know its personal preference and opinions differ, but as an expert which one do you usually recommend between Yakima and Thule based on quality, durability, past problem history, etc? Thank you in advance for your response.

asked by: Max Y

Expert Reply:

The Yakima and Thule roof rack systems you compare, the Yakima RailGrab (parts # Y00408 and Y00138) and the Thule Specialty Railing Rack (parts # TH440 and THSR2) differ in the type of roof side rail to which they can attach.

For your 2005 Subaru Legacy GT Wagon the Yakima RailGrab system is the correct fit. The Thule system requires raised rails and so is not a fit for your Legacy GT wagon with flush-mounted rails.

The Yakima RailGrab rack does not include locks but these are available in a set of four as part # Y07204. The end caps for the round load bars are also not included but available separately as part # Y8007026. This Yakima rack features galvanized steel crossbars and has a 150-lb load capacity (but you should check your vehicle owners manual to confirm the vehicle roof weight rating) and will mount to your Subaru Legacy GT Wagon with a 37-inch crossbar spread.

Round and square load bars exhibit very similar noise performance, weight capacities and compatibility with accessory items. Neither type is preferred in all cases but many customers consider round bars to have marginally quieter performance.

expert reply by: Adam R