Roof box on a Rapide?

[W12GT]

As per the title - has anyone managed to get roof bars and a roof box to fit on a Rapide? I’ve come to the realisation that the camping equipment won’t be fitting in the boot!

[Ken Figenus]

I don't think that is remotely possible due to the smooth shallow roof gutter design and the huge sexy curve the whole roof has.

[W12GT]

AM don’t do anything but when I spoke to someone at AMWorks this morning they think something from Thule should work - possible one that fits the Merc CLS.

Wondering about the SeaSucker roof bar solution with a box attached but I’m not sure I trust suckers...

[NTM55]

The Thule ones are very good (but expensive). I have used on some high performance cars before and minimal noise
They must do a very good magnetic one now

[Agent57]

Take the Range Rover instead.

[anonymous-user]

NTM55 said:

The Thule ones are very good (but expensive). I have used on some high performance cars before and minimal noise
They must do a very good magnetic one now

Avoid magnetic.

Firstly, the AM is alu roof, I believe.

Secondly if it stays on for too long, in warm weather, the magnets "suck" any corrosion to the surface. Or something. A lifetime of using magnetic yellow beacons on the roofs of many cars always leaves rusty circles - they polish off, but would rather not have them in the first place. May not be an issue on alu though. But then it won't stick anyway.

Inflatables are the way to go.

[AdamV12V]

Yeah a roof box and an Aston do not sounds like natural bed partners...

Just how big is your tent? The Rapide boot area is HUGE!

[Djit]

Packline worth looking at too. Contours that follow the flow of the roof. (Can’t believe I’m giving advice for putting a roof box on an Aston!).

[W12GT]

Why not? I’m getting a Rapide so I can take my family on road trips. Part of the fun for the kids is camping but we take a bell tent, woodburning stove, beds and bedding, food, clothes etc.

The Rapide boot is NOT big - ok for a few overnight bags at a hotel but that’s it.

[MarkwG]

W12GT said:

Why not? I’m getting a Rapide so I can take my family on road trips. Part of the fun for the kids is camping but we take a bell tent, woodburning stove, beds and bedding, food, clothes etc.

The Rapide boot is NOT big - ok for a few overnight bags at a hotel but that’s it.

I'd chat to these guys: https://www.roofracks.co.uk/thule-roof-bar-guide/c... - they've helped me with some odd requests in the past. There's nothing listed for any Aston, however they may know of a generic mounting that'll work. The rear door apertures gives you a head start, it's whether there's a way of gripping the edge of the roof without damaging it, or the doors. You may find there are already points under the door seal, if not, that may make things trickier.

[Djit]

Only because I thought it’s never been done, certainly I’d not seen it before. (I’ve been researching roof boxes too for a t6). Have seen them on 911’s painted body colour and they have a cool vibe.

[Djit]

[anonymous-user]

I think that looks boss.

[W12GT]

Djit said:

This is using the SeaSucker rack - I had seen this before and think it looks good but I am concerned about the suction giving way and losing the lot in transit.

[oilit]

you could always go the tow bar route and get a small trailer.... probably no easier but sure i have seen it done somewhere on a rapide ....

Edited by oilit on Thursday 16th July 13:12

[WhiskyDisco]

Tow bar + "locker" is the best bet.

[Manners79]

Towbar also gives an easy bike carrying capability which is useful for you outdoorsy types!

[MarkwG]

oilit said:

you could always go the tow bar route and get a small trailer.... probably no easier but sure i have seen it done somewhere on a rapide ....

A trailer limits your speed, whereas a roofbox doesn't to the same degree.

[S70JPS]

I got Thule bars for my Panamera. They seem to have a massive range.

[W12GT]

Thule don’t do anything to fit. This morning I emailed the roofbox company and they don’t have anything that will work due to the frameless doors.

It really does feel like AM missed an opportunity here.