Wildroad Rooftop Cargo Carrier Combo or Wildroad 60"x24"x6" Cargo Carrier Combo? Which Wildroad Model to Buy
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The wildroad rooftop cargo carrier combo vs 60 x24 x6 cargo carrier combo comparison helps you choose the right mount. Both units use heavy-duty steel with a black powder coating for rust resistance. They share a similar rugged build quality. The main difference is the attachment method. One design mounts to roof crossbars, while the other attaches to a vehicle hitch receiver. This changes how you load items and how they affect your vehicle's clearance. You need to pick the system that fits your vehicle's hardware.
Key differences
| Aspect | Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket | Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Roof-mount | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) |
| Basket Dimensions | 43 x 39 x 4 inches | 60 x 24 x 6 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 150 lbs | 500 lbs |
| Included Accessories | U-bolts and screws | 18 cu ft waterproof bag, cargo net, ratchet straps, hitch tightener |
| Unit Weight | 23.4 pounds | 51.7 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket if
- You have roof crossbars and need a lightweight, low-profile carrier.
- You are carrying smaller items like camping gear or luggage.
- You want to keep the total weight on your vehicle low.
Choose Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo if
- You have a 2-inch hitch receiver on your vehicle.
- You need to haul heavier loads up to 500 lbs.
- You want a waterproof bag and straps included in the package.
Verdict: The roof basket suits drivers with crossbars who prioritize low weight and aerodynamic height. The hitch carrier is better for those with a receiver who need high capacity and included storage accessories. Choose based on your vehicle's mounting points and your maximum load requirements.
Mount Type and Vehicle Fit
Mount Type
The Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket uses a roof-mount design. It attaches to your vehicle’s crossbars using four upgraded U-bolts. This setup requires your car to have roof rails or crossbars. The Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo uses a hitch-mount design. It inserts directly into a two-inch hitch receiver on SUVs, pickup trucks, or trailers. You do not need roof racks for the hitch model. This makes the hitch carrier compatible with vehicles that lack roof rails. If your vehicle has a hitch, the hitch carrier is easier to install. If your vehicle has roof rails, the roof basket is the only option.
Load Capacity
Weight limits differ significantly between these two carriers. The Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket has a weight capacity of 150 lbs. This limit applies to the total cargo you place inside the basket. The Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo has a much higher weight capacity of 500 lbs. This allows you to haul heavier items like firewood, large luggage sets, or camping equipment. The hitch mount transfers weight directly to the vehicle frame, supporting more load. The roof mount relies on your car’s roof structure, which has lower limits. If you need to carry heavy gear, the hitch carrier offers a clear advantage.
Storage Volume
You need to know how much space each carrier provides. The Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket has dimensions of 43 inches by 39 inches by 4 inches. This creates a shallow basket suitable for flat or low-profile items. The Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo includes an 18 cubic feet waterproof cargo bag. The basket itself is 60 inches by 24 inches by 6 inches. The combination of the basket and the bag offers substantial volume for bulky items. The roof basket has a smaller footprint and lower height. The hitch carrier provides more total storage space for larger loads.
Compatibility
Both carriers have specific requirements for your vehicle. The Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket fits square crossbars with a maximum width of 4.6 inches and a thickness of 1.8 inches. It also fits crossbars with a minimum width of 4 inches and a thickness of 1.1 inches. You must measure your existing roof racks to ensure a fit. The Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo requires a two-inch hitch receiver. It includes a hitch tightener and no-wobble fastener for secure attachment. If your vehicle lacks a hitch receiver, you cannot use the hitch carrier. If your vehicle lacks roof crossbars, you cannot use the roof basket.
Included Accessories
The packages you receive are different. The Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket comes as a steel frame. It includes U-bolts with plastic sleeves for mounting to your crossbars. You must provide your own straps or nets for securing cargo. The Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo is a deluxe set. It includes the hitch basket, an 18 cubic feet waterproof cargo bag, a hitch tightener, a no-wobble fastener, a heavy-duty cargo net, and two ratchet straps. This all-in-one package is ready to use immediately. You get more accessories with the hitch carrier, which helps secure your load.
Which Wildroad Carrier Fits You
SUV owners with roof rails
This roof basket mounts to your existing crossbars via U-bolts. It fits square bars between 4 to 4.6 inches wide. The 43 by 39 inch base holds 150 pounds. Its low 4-inch rail height aids aerodynamics. It keeps your cargo off the ground without using a hitch receiver.
Truck owners needing hitch space
This carrier plugs directly into a 2-inch hitch receiver. It holds up to 500 pounds, far exceeding roof limits. The 60 by 24 inch base sits low to the ground. It includes a waterproof bag and securing straps. Folding design saves garage space when not in use.
Buyers wanting maximum cargo volume
The hitch model offers 18 cubic feet of storage. It includes a large waterproof bag measuring 58.5 by 22 by 25 inches. The steel basket supports heavy loads up to 500 pounds. The included cargo net and ratchet straps ensure items stay secure during transit.
The products compared
Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket
Best for: Lightweight, low-profile cargo hauling
- Mount Type
- Roof-mount
- Weight Capacity
- 150 lbs
- Basket Dimensions
- 43" x 39" x 4"
- Material
- Steel
- Side Rail Height
- 4"
- Load Capacity
- 150 lb
View on Amazon: Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket Affiliate link
This Wildroad roof basket measures 43 by 39 by 4 inches. It is made of steel with a black powder coating. The carrier holds up to 150 lbs of cargo. It weighs 23.4 pounds and includes a wind fairing. The design lowers the side rails to reduce wind resistance. It fits crossbars between 4 to 4.6 inches wide. This setup suits drivers who need a lightweight, low-profile option for gear.
Pros
- Steel construction holds 150 lbs of weight
- 4-inch side rails reduce wind noise
- Includes wind fairing for aerodynamics
- Fits crossbars from 4 to 4.6 inches wide
Cons
- 43-inch length is smaller than standard carriers
- 4-inch height limits vertical cargo volume
- No included lock mechanism for security
Good fit if
- You need a low-profile rack for tall vehicles
- You carry light gear under 150 lbs
- You drive on highways with wind noise concerns
Skip if
- You require maximum cargo volume
- Your crossbars are smaller than 4 inches
- You need to transport heavy equipment
Verdict: Wildroad 43x39x4 Roof Rack is a compact, lightweight steel basket for low-profile hauling. It fits drivers who prioritize aerodynamics and have smaller crossbars. It is not suitable for large loads or tight crossbars.
Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo
Best for: hauling heavy gear in a low profile
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lbs
- Basket Dimensions
- 60 x 24 x 6 inches
- Material
- Steel
- Receiver Size
- 2-inch
- Load Capacity
- 500 lb
View on Amazon: Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo Affiliate link
This Wildroad hitch carrier features a 60 by 24 by 6 inch steel basket with an 18 cubic foot waterproof bag. It mounts in a 2 inch receiver and holds up to 500 pounds. The heavy-duty steel frame includes a black epoxy powder coating for rust resistance. You get a complete set with straps and a tightener for secure transport. This setup is designed for hauling camping gear or luggage safely.
Pros
- 500 pound weight capacity for heavy loads
- Includes 18 cubic foot waterproof cargo bag
- Heavy-duty steel construction with rust-resistant coating
- Folds flat for compact storage when not in use
Cons
- Low 6 inch side rails limit tall item height
- 51.7 pound basket weight adds vehicle load
- Requires 2 inch hitch receiver for installation
Good fit if
- You need to haul bulky camping equipment
- You have a 2 inch hitch receiver
- You want a complete set with a bag
Skip if
- You need to carry items taller than 6 inches
- Your vehicle only has a 1.25 inch hitch
- You prefer roof-mounted storage solutions
Verdict: Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo offers high capacity in a low-profile design. It fits buyers who need to move heavy gear without raising their vehicle's center of gravity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket | Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Roof-mount | Hitch-mount |
| Weight Capacity | 150 lbs | 500 lbs |
| Basket Dimensions | 43" x 39" x 4" | 60 x 24 x 6 inches |
| Material | Steel | Steel |
| Side Rail Height | 4" | not stated |
| Receiver Size | not stated | 2-inch |
| Load Capacity | 150 lb | 500 lb |
| Vehicle Type | SUV, Truck | not stated |
| Includes Bag | not stated | With Bag |
| Dimensions | 43 × 39 × 4 inches | 60 × 24 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 23.4 pounds | 51.7 pounds |
| Size | 43" x 39" x 4" | 60" x 24" x 6" |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | WR-RR-43 | WR-HCC-LOW-COMBO |
Frequently asked questions
Which Wildroad carrier is better for aerodynamics?
The Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket is the better choice for aerodynamics. Its height is only 4 inches, which sits very low to the roof. This low profile reduces wind resistance significantly compared to taller carriers. The hitch carrier stands 6 inches high and extends 60 inches back, creating more drag while driving.
Does the hitch carrier include a storage bag?
Yes, the Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo includes a storage bag. This is a practical feature for keeping the carrier clean when not in use. The roof basket does not have this inclusion listed in its specifications. You get the bag with the hitch model for convenient storage.
How much weight can the roof basket hold?
The Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket supports a maximum load of 150 pounds. This capacity is suitable for lightweight, low-profile cargo hauling. It is designed for drivers who prioritize aerodynamics and have smaller crossbars. It is not suitable for large, heavy loads that exceed this weight limit.
What is the weight difference between the two models?
The roof basket weighs 23.4 pounds, while the hitch carrier weighs 51.7 pounds. The hitch carrier is more than twice as heavy as the roof basket. This difference matters if you are concerned about the added weight on your vehicle. The roof basket is significantly lighter for easier handling.
Can the roof basket fit tight crossbars?
The roof basket fits square bars between 4 to 4.6 inches wide. It attaches using four upgraded U-bolts for a secure fit. It is not suitable for tight crossbars that are narrower than this range. Check your crossbar width before purchasing to ensure compatibility with the mounting hardware.
Which model is better for hauling heavy gear?
The Wildroad 60x24x6 Hitch Cargo Carrier Combo is better for heavy gear. It offers high capacity in a low-profile design. It fits buyers who need to move heavy items without raising their vehicle's center of gravity. The hitch mount provides a stable base for substantial loads compared to the roof basket.
Is the roof basket suitable for large loads?
No, the Wildroad 43x39x4 inch Roof Basket is not suitable for large loads. Its compact size and 150-pound limit restrict what you can carry. It is designed for lightweight, low-profile cargo hauling. If you have bulky items, the hitch carrier with its larger dimensions would be a more appropriate choice.