The Benefits of a Truck Bed Cross Bar
Truck bed cross bars are essential add-ons to pickup trucks that can help improve their carrying capacity. These bars serve as a reliable and secure platform for attaching different types of cargo carriers, such as rooftop tents, cargo baskets, bike racks, and kayaks, that wouldn't otherwise fit in the truck bed. But how effective are they in maximizing your truck's cargo-carrying ability? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the advantages of using truck bed cross bars to help you decide whether this accessory is a worthwhile investment for your pickup truck.
Easy Installation
One of the best things about truck bed cross bars is that they are extremely easy to install. Most manufacturers design their cross bars to fit seamlessly on the existing bed rails, making it possible to install them in minutes using basic hand tools. Depending on your truck model and the type of cross bar, some may come with their installation manuals, while others may need expert installation. Always look for the ease-of-installation feature when buying a truck bed cross bar.
Durable Material
Truck bed cross bars are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, and manufacturers use different materials to ensure durability. Some common materials used include aluminum, steel, and composite plastic. These materials are selected for their strength, resistance to rust and corrosion, and lightweight properties. Aluminum crossbars are the most common type, known for their lightweight and durable nature.
Customizable Height and Width
One of the selling points of truck bed crossbars is their flexibility in terms of height and width. Manufacturers designed them with adjustability to accommodate different types of cargo and carriers, making them the optimal choice for different pickup trucks. With this feature, users can adjust the cross bars' height and width, which offers versatility in the types of cargo carriers that can be attached.
Increased Cargo Capacity
With a truck bed cross bar, your truck's cargo capacity increases significantly. Whether for weekend camping expeditions, fishing trips, or for transporting bulky furniture, a crossbar allows you to secure a variety of oversized items conveniently and securely. For instance, you can attach a rooftop tent on a cross bar and still have enough space for other camping gear in the truck bed. Also, you can conveniently travel with your kayak or bike rack without additional SUVs or trailers.
Improved Aerodynamics
Truck bed cross bars also help to improve your truck's aerodynamics. As opposed to carrying a large item without a crossbar, these accessories help to streamline the vehicle and reduce drag that often results in a considerable reduction in the miles per gallon (MPG) your truck returns. In turn, this saves you considerable fuel costs in the long run.
Protect Your Cargo
Truck bed cross bars provide extra protection for your valuable possessions. When you use a carrier such as a cargo basket to haul goods, the crossbar keeps the item at a considerable distance from the truck surface compared to when it's just placed in the bed of the truck. This extra space creates a buffer between the truck and the carrier, which naturally reduces the possibility of damage.
Space Saving
Are you looking for a way to save space in your garage? A crossbar can help you with that. When you remove the cargo carrier from the crossbar, the crossbars can be removed, and the truck bed can still be utilized for hauling other oversized items. This feature is a bonus, especially for those dealing with limited garage space.
Multiple Use Cases
Truck bed cross bars are quite versatile, and you don't have to limit their use to carrying all of your outdoor gear. They can also be used to mount a roof rack, giving you additional storage options for luggage, oversized equipment, or surplus gear. With such multiple uses, these crossbars should be in every camper's garage.
Affordable
When compared to other essential gear like camping tents and hunting gear, truck bed crossbars are relatively affordable. They come in different price ranges, with the most expensive types featuring additional benefits and enhanced sturdiness. However, for those on a budget, you can also find reasonably priced truck bed cross bars without sacrificing quality.
Final Thoughts
Truck bed cross bars are a must-have accessory for any pickup truck owner who needs to transport bulky items conveniently and securely. With the numerous benefits they offer, it's challenging to go wrong when investing in them. Make sure to do your research and find the best truck bed crossbars that fit your vehicle's make and model. truck bed cross bar, pickup trucks, cargo carriers, rooftop tents, cargo baskets, bike racks, kayak, adjustable, durable, aerodynamics, affordable Maximizing Your Truck's Carrying Capacity with a Truck Bed Cross Bar Truck bed cross bars are essential add-ons to pickup trucks that can help improve their carrying capacity. They serve as a platform for attaching cargo carriers, increasing cargo capacity, and protecting your cargo. Read this article to learn how to maximize your truck's carrying capacity with a truck bed cross bar.