Is your vehicle ready to support a rooftop tent?
Start by checking your vehicle's manual or reaching out to your dealer to confirm your roof's weight limits. The key factor here is the dynamic weight capacity—the maximum weight your roof can safely handle while driving.
Dynamic vs. Static Weight Capacity:
- Dynamic Weight Capacity: The load your roof can bear when the vehicle is in motion.
- Static Weight Capacity: The load your roof can support when the vehicle is parked, with the tent set up and occupants inside. This capacity is typically much higher than the dynamic weight and varies by tent.
ROOST USA Tent Weight: 163 lbs (excluding stowed gear)
To ensure safe use, always match your rooftop tent's specifications with your vehicle's weight limits. For reference, some roof rack systems can support up to three times their dynamic capacity when parked, but always double-check your setup!
Selecting the Right Mounting System for Your Roost USA Rooftop Tent.
CrossBar Systems
Not all stock vehicle crossbars are up to the task of supporting a Roost USA rooftop tent, especially when it comes to handling the weight of campers inside (static load) or staying secure at highway speeds (dynamic load). Selecting the right crossbars and towers is essential to ensure safe and reliable mounting for your adventure setup.
Vehicle roofs vary widely in design—whether you have rain gutters, bare roofs, raised or flush rails, or tracks, there’s a compatible solution. Brands like Yakima, and Rhino Rack offer durable options tailored to these roof types, allowing you to safely and securely install your rooftop tent. Understanding your roof type and choosing the correct crossbar system will ensure optimal support and positioning for your tent, so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Platform Rack Systems
To mount your Roost USA rooftop tent along with extra gear, a platform rack can be an excellent option. These racks offer a stable base but may require additional parts or steps due to their low-profile design. Depending on the rack, you might need to pre-mount the tent or remove slats for installation. Racks with left-to-right slats simplify mounting, while front-to-back designs may require more adjustments. Brands like Front Runner Outfitters, and Rhino Rack offer durable options tailored to these roof types, allowing you to safely and securely install your rooftop tent.
What is the Recommended front-to-back and side-to-side spacing of your roof rack bars?
Bar Spread
Roost USA tents require a front-to-back bar spread of at least 32” and a max spread of 58" for proper support.
Crossbar Length
For optimal support, the crossbars should slightly exceed the width of the Roost Tent. A minimum crossbar length of 58" is required.
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Roost Mounting Instructions
- Ensure roof rack crossbars have adequate length to span beyond the outside measurements of the Roost RTT (Minimum Cross Bar Length: 58”).
- With the help of a second person, lift the Roost RTT into position from the side of your vehicle.
- Center the Roost RTT over the vehicle roof and roof rack system.
- Take four universal runner brackets and place them in the C-shaped runners on the underside of your Roost RTT at the crossbar locations.
- Take the straight bracket component, place it over the crossbar, then insert bolts through the straight bracket component and thread them into the runner brackets.
- Securely tighten bolts on both sides.
- Repeat for all four mounting locations.
- Take a short test drive with the Roost RTT mounted to your roof rack.
- Check all bolts and re-tighten.
- Your Roost RTT is ready for travel.
