Exploring the Pros and Cons of Different Bed Racks

The popularity of pickup trucks has grown by leaps and bounds in recent times; no wonder this has also led to a surge in demand for accessories for pickup trucks. The truck bed rack is one such accessory that can not only maximize your truck's utility by increasing the cargo carrying capacity, but also outfit it for the next adventure you undertake. However, thanks to the plethora of options available, taking a pick can be a challenge. In this blog, we will walk you through the different styles, materials, and configurations for truck bed bike racks to help you make an informed decision. 

Whether you are a weekend warrior, a full-time traveler, or simply looking for the needs, budget, and lifestyle, we have got you covered. 

Different Types of Truck Bed Racks

Here are some of the major types of truck bed racks in Canada:

• Rooftop Tent Bed Racks:

These are specifically designed to support rooftop tents, making them an excellent choice for off-road enthusiasts and campers. They typically come with a sturdy, elevated platform that can hold the extra weight of a tent and accompanying campaign gear. If you are willing to shell out some extra bucks and put in extra effort for the setup, this is a fantastic pick. 

• Overlanding Bed Racks: if you’re an overlander, this bed rack will take you by delight. These racks are built to support a variety of heavy-duty gear, such as fuel canisters, water tanks, and recovery equipment. They are designed to not only withstand rugged conditions, but also promise ample storage options. 

• Sport/Utility Bed Racks: a highly practical option for users who carry different types of gear, this type of bed rack a wide range of activities like carrying bikes, kayaks, surfboards, or ladders. Though these are available in different types of designs, they may not be very suitable for extreme use. 

• Low-Profile Bed Racks: if you don’t want a rack that sticks up too high, this is the right one. Offering a sleeker, less bulky look, this type of bed rack is often compatible with tonneau covers. Besides the sleek design, what makes this bed rack stand apart is that it reduces wind resistance and improves fuel efficiency. However, they are typically not suitable for carrying heavier items like larger, off-road equipment. 

• Full-Height Bed Racks: Want to carry larger gear like oversized cargo, ladders, or gearboxes? This is your one-stop solution! As the name implies, these racks are taller, which can obstruct rear visibility and may affect aerodynamics, taking a toll on fuel efficiency. 

• Modular Bed Racks: The best part about these racks is that they are highly customizable, allowing you to add or remove parts depending on what you’re carrying. This flexibility makes them a great fit for those who need a highly adaptable system. The con is that these racks can be somewhat complicated to assemble, thanks to its modularity. 

• Hitch-mounted Bed Racks: you can attach these racks to the truck’s hitch, instead of mounting directly into the bed. Useful for carrying extra loads like bikes or gear on the back, these bed racks are easy to install and remove. While they do not occupy space in the truck bed itself, they made impact ground clearance when off-roading. 

What Factors to Consider Before Buying A Bed Rack?

When choosing a bed rack, here are the factors you should take into account:

• The type of cargo you will be transporting

• How often you will be using the rack

• How compatible the rack is with your specific truck model and bed size

• How sturdy the construction is (you should look for durable materials like steel or aluminum)

• The rack should be able to handle the weight of your intended cargo safely

• How easy it is to install and remove the rack

If you are looking to maximize your cargo-carrying flexibility and protection, consider going for a bed rack with tonneau cover as it promises the best of both worlds: the functionality of a bed rack and a weather protection of a tonneau cover. Sounds like a win-win right? It’s a one-stop solution for overlanding and outdoor adventures, allowing you to carry oversized cargo on the rack while keeping other items secure and protected underneath the cover.

Choosing the right bed rack is a big decision, as it affects not only your truck’s versatility but also its overall aesthetics. As you must have realized by now, each type of mode

l has its own distinct blend of advantages and disadvantages, be it the sleek, low-profile racks or the burly, overland-ready models. There is hardly a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to finding the perfect bed rack. 

Conclusion

Make sure you research extensively, ask questions, and visualize how you'll use your truck. There's no one-size-fits-all answer; the perfect rack depends entirely on your specific needs and how you plan to use your truck. 

Do you prioritize aerodynamics and fuel efficiency? A low-profile rack might be your best bet. Need maximum cargo capacity and mounting options for all your gear? A full-height or overland rack is likely the way to go. Perhaps you need a balance of both? Then an adjustable or mid-height rack could be the sweet spot. 

Ultimately, the key is to weigh the pros and cons carefully, consider your lifestyle, and choose a rack that enhances your adventures, not hinders them. So, take the time to do your research, With the right bed rack, your pickup will be transformed into the ultimate adventure machine. Now, get out there and explore!