Can Rhino Rack Sportz Crossbars Be Cut Down If They Are Too Long?
Updated 08/13/2026 | Published 08/07/2026
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Question:
Hi I understand that the tracks can be shortened by cutting off one end of the track. can the crossbars be shortened as well by cutting the cross bar extrusion? My camper shell is narrower so I would like to shorten the crossbars to 50 inches. Thanks
asked by: Roger R
Expert Reply:
Hi Roger!
I see you placed an order for the Rhino-Rack Aero Bar Roof Rack for Camper Shells - Track Mount - Black - 54" Bars # Y02-480B already, but I still wanted to get you an answer to your question.
While some crossbars can be cut down to size, the ones included with the # Y02-480B cannot. The bottom of the bars have a short track in them for the towers to mount in, but they do not go all the way across the bar (see included image). Cutting the bar down can and will shorten that space and typically doesn't allow for enough room for the towers to fit properly. Plus it will void the warranty.
If I were wanting a set up like this, I would piece one together. I have two kits listed below that will include 50" crossbars:
Rhino Rack:
Rhino-Rack RTC-Style Roof Rack Tracks - Channel Mount - 63" Long - Qty 2 # RTC16
Rhino-Rack Quick Mount Legs for Sportz Crossbars - RTC Roof Rack Tracks - Qty 4 # RRRLT600
Rhino-Rack Sportz Aero Crossbar - Aluminum - Black - 50" Long - Qty 2 # RR45AG
Yakima:
Yakima 60" Tracks for Roof Racks # Y01135
TrackTowers for Yakima Crossbars and Platforms - Track Mount - Qty 4 # Y52AV
Yakima CoreBar Crossbars - Steel - Black - 50" Long - Qty 2 # Y00421
Either of these would work for you, but the Yakima option will be less expensive than the Rhino Rack option. The Yakima CoreBars also don't use tracks for the mounting, so they tend to be my preferred may to go when mounting a roof rack on a bed cap. They are much more customizable due to the lack of those tracks.
I know that's a bummer to hear since you already placed your order, but I also didn't want to lie to you. With that said, before you actually mount anything, do a test fit with everything. You may not need to cut the bars you will be getting and they may not stick out as far as you think. Everything may work as it is.
Out of curiosity, what are you going to be carrying on your roof?
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Rhino-Rack Aero Bar Roof Rack for Camper Shells - Track Mount - Black - 54" Bars
- Roof Rack
- Crossbar Rack
- Aero Bars
- 54 Inch Bar
- 2 Bars
- Overhang
- Black
- Rhino Rack
more information >
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on Roof Rack
Emmet F.
8/12/2026
I suggest purchasing the correct length of crossbar over cutting it down to size. It will look better. I love my Rhino Rack, I did the install myself on my camper shell. It looked good and rides nice!