Best Cargo Crossbars for Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S is a masterclass in electric utility, but when you’re hauling a full crew and a mountain of production gear, that interior space disappears fast. As someone who frequently loads up Pelican cases and heavy-duty tripods for remote shoots, I’ve found that a reliable roof rack is essential. While the Rivian Official Crossbars are the gold standard for ease, aftermarket options from Yakima and Thule offer specialized features for the discerning adventurer. Here is my breakdown of the best sets available today.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Cargo Crossbars for Rivian R1S: Detailed Reviews
Rivian Official Cargo Crossbars View on Amazon
There is no substitute for the Rivian Official Cargo Crossbars if you value time and aesthetics. Designed specifically for the R1S’s proprietary accessory ports, these bars feature a “telescoping” design that allows them to snap into place in seconds without a single wrench. I’ve used these to mount everything from a rooftop tent to a set of recovery boards, and the 250-lb dynamic load rating is incredibly reassuring when you’re navigating rough terrain. The aerodynamics are tuned to the vehicle, meaning the impact on your range is minimal compared to boxier aftermarket units. The only real downside is the price premium and occasional availability issues through the Rivian Gear Shop. However, for a perfect fit that doesn’t mar your roof rails or require complex assembly, these are the bars I keep on my personal R1S for 90% of my trips.
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Yakima JetStream System View on Amazon
The Yakima JetStream system, paired with the appropriate Landing Pad 26, is the ultimate choice for users who already have a garage full of Yakima gear. What I love about the JetStream is the internal JetFlow teardrop shape, which significantly reduces wind noise—a crucial factor when you’re driving a silent EV like the R1S. The T-slot channel makes it incredibly easy to slide in bike racks, kayak mounts, or even my specialized camera pursuit rigs. Unlike the OEM bars, these extend slightly past the towers, providing more usable surface area for wider loads. While the installation takes a bit more effort than the “click-and-go” Rivian bars, the flexibility you get in return is worth it. It’s a robust, well-engineered system that offers a premium feel without the proprietary lock-in, making it the best value for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
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Snailfly Cross Bars View on Amazon
If you only plan on using your roof rack a few times a year for holiday road trips or occasional lumber runs, the Snailfly Cross Bars are a fantastic budget-friendly alternative. They are designed specifically to mimic the Rivian mounting interface, and while they don’t have the same “premium” tactile click as the originals, they lock on securely and hold up to 165 lbs. In my testing, I noticed a slight increase in wind whistle at highway speeds above 70 mph compared to the Thule or OEM options, but it’s a minor trade-off for the massive cost savings. The finish is a matte black aluminum that looks surprisingly good on the R1S. They may lack the advanced aerodynamic engineering of the $600+ sets, but for the photographer on a budget who needs to get a cargo box to the trailhead, these get the job done reliably.
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Thule WingBar Edge View on Amazon
The Thule WingBar Edge is the ultimate “set it and forget it” rack for the Rivian R1S. If you are sensitive to wind noise—which is much more noticeable in an EV—these are the quietest bars I have ever tested. Thule’s WindDiffuser surface textured strip breaks up the airflow, virtually eliminating the humming sound common at high speeds. The low-profile, arched design follows the roofline of the R1S beautifully, making it look like a factory-integrated component. You will need the specific Thule Fit Kit for Rivian, but once installed, the structural integrity is second to none. I find these particularly useful for mounting expensive camera stabilizers or delicate gear where vibrations need to be kept to a minimum. It’s an expensive investment, but the combination of Swedish engineering and whisper-quiet performance makes it the premium choice for long-distance travel.
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RockyMounts Ouray View on Amazon
The RockyMounts Ouray is a sleeper hit in the Rivian community. While not as famous as Thule or Yakima, these bars are built like a tank. They feature a thicker aluminum wall than most competitors, which I find provides a more stable platform for top-heavy loads like hardshell roof tents or full-size spare tires. The “over-the-tower” design allows for a very wide stance, giving you those extra few inches of space that can mean the difference between fitting two kayaks or just one. They use a standard T-slot track that is compatible with almost every accessory brand on the market. If you’re the type of driver who takes your R1S deep into the backcountry and needs a rack that can take a beating from low-hanging branches and extreme vibrations, the RockyMounts Ouray is a rugged, dependable companion that won’t let you down.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose Cargo Crossbars
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rivian Official | OEM Integration | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Yakima JetStream | Versatility | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Snailfly Crossbars | Budget Users | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Thule WingBar Edge | Quiet Ride | ★★★★★ | Check |
| RockyMounts Ouray | Heavy Loads | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these crossbars affect my Rivian’s range?
Yes, any external attachment will create aerodynamic drag. High-quality aerodynamic bars like the Thule WingBar or Rivian Official bars typically result in a 1-3% range loss. Boxier budget bars or carrying large items like cargo boxes can increase this loss to 10% or more. I recommend removing the bars when they aren’t in use to maintain maximum efficiency for daily city driving.
Can I install these crossbars by myself?
Absolutely. The Rivian Official bars are designed for a one-person, tool-free installation that takes under two minutes. Aftermarket systems like Yakima or Thule require an initial assembly of the towers and fit kits, which might take 30-45 minutes. Once the base plates are installed, however, the bars can usually be removed or reattached relatively quickly using a hex key or integrated locks.
What is the weight limit for the R1S roof?
The Rivian R1S is rated for a dynamic load of 250 lbs when using official or high-quality aftermarket crossbars. This is the maximum weight you should carry while the vehicle is in motion. The static load capacity—useful for rooftop tents with people inside while parked—is significantly higher, often cited around 800 lbs, thanks to the R1S’s incredibly strong reinforced roof pillars.
Do the crossbars interfere with the panoramic sunroof?
Standard crossbars do not interfere with the view through the panoramic glass, but they can slightly increase the wind noise heard through the glass panel. Most modern bars are tall enough that they won’t obstruct the glass, but you should always check the clearance if you are using an accessory with long bolts that might point downward toward the roof surface.
Are these crossbars lockable to prevent theft?
The Rivian Official, Thule, and Yakima systems all feature integrated locking cylinders. This is a vital feature for me, as it secures both the rack to the car and the accessories to the rack. Budget options may require you to purchase locks separately or may rely on specialized “security” bolts which are harder to remove but not as secure as a dedicated key-and-tumbler lock system.
Final Verdict
For most Rivian R1S owners, the Official Cargo Crossbars are the clear winner due to their “click-and-go” convenience and factory-backed warranty. If you’re a power user with a specific need for T-slot accessories or a whisper-quiet highway drive, the Thule WingBar Edge is a worthy premium upgrade. Budget-conscious adventurers should look at the Snailfly bars, which provide the essential utility without the high-end price tag. Regardless of your choice, expanding your R1S’s storage capacity opens up a world of adventure.