Looking for Very Low Profile Roof Crossbars

[AC Knickerbocker]

Hi -

First post here, apologies if I've erred in some fashion.

I have a 2023 Tahoe RST which has factory rails installed that run along either side of the roof, just to the inboard of the door tops.

I want to add some crossbars in order to carry skis, but I am extremely limited by the height of the opening of my garage door.

Specifically, I have the folding ski racks from KUAT (the SWITCH 4 model) that fold 90 degrees when not in use, and thus are only about 3 inches above whatever
crossbar(s) they are mounted on.

The problem is that I have less than 6 inches clearance between the roof rails on the Tahoe and the header that runs across the top of the garage door opening,
so that only leaves about 3 inches for the crossbars to be elevated above the roof top itself.

Is anyone aware of any aftermarket solutions that will fit this need?

Appreciate any insights and assistance.

 

[BacDoc]

Clearance with roof racks on these vehicles is always going to be an issue as they are getting bigger every year and barely fit into the standard 2 car garage.
Here in Florida the other problem we have is that garage doors that meet the wind hazard standards have thick reinforced beams that also comprise the height of the garage door opening.

I went with the Thule racks/cross bars because they are aerodynamic, low profile and are easy to mount and remove.

I have room in my standard 2 car garage for the racks but I take them off when not using them.
The picture looks like plenty of room but it is pretty close when they are attached

 

[AC Knickerbocker]

Thank you for your response - very thorough and informative.

I’ll take a closer look.

 

[BacDoc]

I think the Thule might be the lowest profile but the online site “E-Trailer” could help you find options.

The main problem is the securing mechanism. The cross bar has to be above the existing roof rails and the attachment to the cross bar has to be sturdy enough to hold weight and accommodate wind resistance.

The Thule is the smallest height that I saw when I was shopping a couple years ago. I was concerned about garage height clearance too.

The guys at E-Trailer are very good with customer service and the reps I spoke with were very knowledgeable about their products and trucks and SUVs.

 

[olyelr]

I think you have the perfect excuse to build a new garage