Malone VersaRail™ Bare Roof Cross Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This malone versarail bare roof cross review focuses on the 50-inch model, a fixed rail system designed for vehicles without existing roof rails. It provides a 135-pound load capacity and features a 50-inch span to support cargo carriers. The bars are rectangular, measuring 8 inches wide, which ensures compatibility with most standard rack accessories. You get a complete kit ready for installation, requiring only the included wrench. The vacuum tower bases offer 75 pounds of pull strength to secure the system to your vehicle. This setup is built for durability with a corrosion-resistant coating on the load bars. It weighs 10.5 pounds total, making it a manageable addition to your roof. The design prioritizes straightforward mounting and reliable support for your travel gear.
What stands out
- 135 lbs total load capacity for heavy cargo
- Rectangular 8-inch wide bars fit most accessories
- No additional tools needed beyond the included wrench
- Corrosion-resistant coating protects the load bars
- 75 lb pull strength vacuum tower bases
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should choose this system if your vehicle lacks factory roof rails and you need a sturdy platform for a roof box or cargo bag. The 135-pound capacity handles substantial gear for road trips. The rectangular bar shape ensures you can attach standard crossbar accessories without compatibility issues. If you prefer a simple installation that requires minimal tools, the included wrench makes the process straightforward. The vacuum bases provide secure attachment without drilling, preserving your vehicle's finish. This is a practical solution for families needing extra storage space during vacations or outdoor adventures.
Who should skip it
Skip this option if your car already has factory-installed roof rails, as this system is designed for bare roofs. You might also look elsewhere if you need a wider span, as the 50-inch size may not fit larger vehicles comfortably. The 135-pound limit is lower than some hard-shell carrier systems, so check your gear weight. If you require adjustable bar positioning for frequent reconfiguration, these fixed rails offer less flexibility. Additionally, if you need dynamic load ratings for driving with cargo, note that this spec is not listed, so verify your vehicle's specific roof limits before loading.
Verdict: The Malone VersaRail provides a reliable, tool-free mounting solution for bare roofs with a strong 135-pound capacity. It is a solid choice for securing standard roof cargo accessories without drilling.
Key specs explained for this rail
Load Capacity: 135 lbs
This rating indicates the maximum weight the cross bars can support. You can use this capacity to determine if the bars handle your cargo carrier and gear. Heavier carriers require higher limits. Check your carrier manual to ensure your total load stays within this 135-pound limit for safe driving.
Size: 50 inches
This length defines the span between the mounting points on your roof. A 50-inch width fits most mid-size vehicles. Longer bars offer more stability for wide cargo. Verify your vehicle’s roof width before buying. This measurement ensures the bars sit correctly without overhanging the vehicle edges.
Width: 8 inches
The bar width affects how accessories attach. An 8-inch span is standard for most roof racks and cargo boxes. It provides a solid base for clamps. Narrower bars may limit accessory options. Wider bars offer more mounting space. This width supports common carrier designs found in the market.
Weight: 10.5 pounds
This weight reflects the total mass of the rail system. Lighter bars reduce the overall roof load. This helps maintain vehicle handling and fuel efficiency. Compare this weight to other bare roof systems. Heavier bars may feel more rigid but add more drag. This weight is moderate for its size.
Design and build details
The Malone VersaRail system uses a black finish with a corrosion-resistant coating on the load bars. This protective layer helps the bars withstand outdoor conditions. The bars have a rectangular cross-section, measuring 8 inches in width and 5.75 inches in height. This shape is practical because it fits most standard rack accessories. The overall length is 50 inches, which provides a solid span for attaching cargo carriers. The entire system weighs 10.5 pounds, keeping the added weight on your vehicle low.
According to the listing, the system includes 75-pound pull-strength vacuum tower bases. These bases secure the rails to bare roofs without drilling. You also get 1.5-inch wide safety attachment straps to ensure the towers stay in place. The package is delivered complete, meaning you do not need to buy extra parts. Installation requires no additional tools, as a wrench is provided in the box. This design allows you to set up the rails quickly on vehicles that lack existing roof rails.
The layout is straightforward, with the vacuum towers providing the primary support. The rectangular bar shape ensures compatibility with various carriers. The corrosion-resistant finish suggests durability for long-term use. The 135-pound load capacity indicates the system can handle moderate cargo weights. You should verify that your specific cargo carrier and gear do not exceed this limit. The 50-inch size is one of two options available, with a 58-inch variant also listed. This flexibility lets you choose the span that best fits your vehicle's roof width.
Setup and everyday use
Installation relies on the included wrench, meaning you do not need to hunt for additional tools. The system uses vacuum tower bases to secure the rails to your bare roof. Each base offers a pull strength of 75 lbs, providing a firm grip on the vehicle surface. Safety attachment straps, measuring 1.5 inches wide, add an extra layer of security during transit. The rails arrive complete and ready for immediate installation, saving you time on assembly.
Once mounted, the 50-inch span supports various cargo solutions. The rectangular shape of the bars, with an 8-inch width and 5.75-inch height, fits most standard rack accessories. This design ensures compatibility with common roof boxes and bike racks. The corrosion-resistant coating on the load bars helps maintain the finish when exposed to rain, snow, or road salt.
In daily use, you benefit from a total load capacity of 135 lbs. This limit applies to the combined weight of your cargo carrier and gear. You must ensure your total load does not exceed this rating to maintain safety and structural integrity. The lightweight design, weighing only 10.5 pounds, makes handling the system manageable. The black finish blends with most vehicle colors, keeping the look clean and unobtrusive. Regular checks of the vacuum bases and straps are advisable to ensure everything remains tight and secure throughout your travels.
Check compatibility before you buy
Before purchasing the Malone VersaRail, verify your vehicle has a bare roof. This system is not for cars with existing side rails. You must confirm your roof can support the 135-pound load capacity. Check the width of your roof to ensure the 50-inch or 58-inch span fits properly. The rectangular bars are 8 inches wide, so measure your cargo carrier’s mounting points to ensure they align. You will need a compatible cargo carrier or bike rack that fits rectangular bars. The vacuum bases require a clean, smooth surface to seal correctly. Keep the roof surface free of dirt and debris for proper installation. This rail system serves as a foundation for your cargo setup. It does not include a carrier itself. You must purchase a separate box or basket. Ensure your vehicle’s roof material is compatible with vacuum suction. This guide compares it against other bare roof systems to help you choose the best fit for your specific vehicle and cargo needs.
Check before you buy
- Confirm your vehicle has a bare roof without existing rails.
- Measure your roof width to choose the correct 50 or 58-inch size.
- Check if your cargo carrier mounts to 8-inch rectangular bars.
- Ensure your roof surface is smooth and clean for vacuum seals.
The product at a glance
Malone VersaRail 50" Bare Roof Cross Rail System
Best for: Bare roof vehicles needing 135 lb capacity
- Mount Type
- roof
- Load Capacity
- 135 lbs
- Dimensions
- 50 × 8 × 5.75 inches
- Weight
- 10.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Malone VersaRail 50" Bare Roof Cross Rail System Affiliate link
This 50-inch cross rail system mounts directly to bare roof panels using vacuum tower bases. It features a 135 lb load capacity and a corrosion-resistant coating. The rectangular bars are 8 inches wide and fit most rack accessories. You get a complete kit with a wrench for installation. It weighs 10.5 pounds and is designed for secure, tool-free setup on vehicles without existing roof rails.
Pros
- 135 lb load capacity per set
- Vacuum tower bases for tool-free mounting
- Corrosion-resistant load bar coating
- Rectangular shape fits most accessories
- Includes wrench for installation
Cons
- 50-inch length may not fit all vehicle widths
- Requires bare roof panels for vacuum mounting
- Limited to 75 lb pull strength per base
Good fit if
- You have a bare roof without existing rails
- You need a 135 lb load capacity
- You want a tool-free installation
Skip if
- You have existing roof rails
- Your vehicle width exceeds 50 inches
- You need a higher pull strength than 75 lb per base
Verdict: Malone VersaRail 50" Bare Roof Cross Rail is a solid choice for vehicles with bare roofs needing a 135 lb capacity. It offers a straightforward vacuum mount setup for secure cargo transport.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Malone VersaRail 50" Bare Roof Cross Rail System |
|---|---|
| Mount Type | roof |
| Load Capacity | 135 lbs |
| Dimensions | 50 × 8 × 5.75 inches |
| Weight | 10.5 pounds |
| Size | 50" |
| Color | black |
| Model | MPG220 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum weight limit for the Malone VersaRail cross bars?
The Malone VersaRail system supports a maximum load capacity of 135 pounds. This rating applies to the total weight of your cargo carrier and gear combined. You must ensure your roof can handle this distributed weight safely. Heavier carriers require careful loading to stay within this limit.
How do the vacuum mounts secure the rails to a bare roof?
The system uses vacuum tower bases to attach to your vehicle's bare roof. Each base provides a pull strength of 75 pounds, creating a firm grip on the surface. This method eliminates the need for permanent drilling or clamping onto existing side rails.
What are the dimensions of the Malone VersaRail cross bars?
The cross bars measure 50 inches in length. They feature a rectangular cross-section that is 8 inches wide and 5.75 inches high. These specific dimensions help support cargo carriers effectively while maintaining a low profile on your vehicle's roof.
Is the Malone VersaRail compatible with vehicles that already have roof rails?
No, this system is designed specifically for vehicles with bare roofs. It is not intended for cars that already have existing side rails or fixed mounting points. You must verify your vehicle lacks existing rails before installing this vacuum-based system.
What tools are needed to install the Malone VersaRail?
Installation requires only the wrench included in the package. You do not need to search for additional tools to mount the vacuum towers and cross bars. This straightforward setup allows you to secure the rails without extra hardware or specialized equipment.
Does the Malone VersaRail have a protective finish against corrosion?
Yes, the load bars feature a black finish with a corrosion-resistant coating. This protective layer helps the bars withstand outdoor conditions and exposure to the elements. The durable finish maintains the appearance and integrity of the rails during regular use.