Best Roof Racks for Rivian R1S
Finding the right roof rack for your Rivian R1S is a unique challenge because of that stunning, expansive panoramic glass roof and the proprietary mounting points. You don’t want to compromise your EV range with draggy bars or risk the integrity of your roof. After testing several setups on long-range expeditions, I’ve found that the OEM Rivian Cargo Crossbars offer the most seamless experience. In this guide, I’ll break down the best options for overlanding, daily hauling, and value-conscious owners.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Roof Racks for Rivian R1S: Detailed Reviews
Rivian Cargo Crossbars View on Amazon
The Rivian Cargo Crossbars are the gold standard for the R1S precisely because they were engineered alongside the vehicle. The most impressive feature is the telescoping locking mechanism—you can install or remove these in under 60 seconds without a single wrench. They support a dynamic load of 250 lbs, which is plenty for a rooftop tent or a heavy gear box. I find the build quality exceptional; the aluminum feels premium and matches the R1S aesthetic perfectly. On the highway, they are remarkably quiet, though you will notice a slight 1-2% hit to your efficiency, which is standard for any rack. The only minor drawback is the price and occasional availability issues, but for the ease of use, they are unbeatable. If you value your time and want a rack that looks like it grew out of the roof, this is it.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Yakima JetStream with Landing Pad View on Amazon
The Yakima JetStream system is a fantastic alternative for R1S owners who want a high-performance rack without the “adventure tax” of OEM gear. Using the Yakima Landing Pad 31, these bars mount securely to the Rivian’s factory points. The “JetFlow” design is one of the most aerodynamic on the market, which is crucial for maintaining your miles-per-kWh. I’ve used Yakima gear for years, and their T-slot compatibility is superior to many competitors, allowing you to slide in bike mounts or kayak carriers with ease. While it doesn’t have the “one-click” install of the Rivian bars, the initial setup is straightforward. It’s a sturdy, wind-tunnel-tested option that offers a slightly wider bar width than OEM, giving you more usable “real estate” for mounting multiple accessories side-by-side. It’s a smart balance of price, performance, and durability.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Thule WingBar Evo View on Amazon
The Thule WingBar Evo is a classic for a reason. While it’s not “cheap,” it is often more affordable than the OEM Rivian bars if you catch a sale. The WingBar Evo features a sophisticated internal structure that handles heavy loads without flexing. One of the best parts about Thule is the ecosystem; if you already have Thule cargo boxes or ski racks, they will integrate perfectly here. For the R1S, you’ll need the specific Fit Kit, which ensures a snug, safe connection to the vehicle’s frame. You’ll notice the WindDiffuser technology—a textured strip on the top of the bar—actually does a great job of breaking up airflow to reduce that annoying whistling sound. It lacks the sleek, integrated look of the Rivian-branded bars, but for a reliable workhorse that won’t let you down during a cross-country move, Thule is a safe bet.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Front Runner Slimline II Roof Rail Rack View on Amazon
If you’re planning on taking your R1S deep into the backcountry, standard crossbars might not be enough. The Front Runner Slimline II is a full-platform rack that replaces simple bars with a massive, modular tray. This is professional-grade equipment. It has a static load rating that can easily support a large rooftop tent and two adults. What I love most about Front Runner is the sheer number of accessories—you can bolt on shovels, Maxtrax, fuel cans, and even a bottle opener directly to the slats. It is made of high-density aluminum and powder-coated black for extreme durability. The downside? It is significantly heavier than crossbars and will impact your range more noticeably due to the increased wind resistance. However, for the serious adventurer who needs to carry everything plus the kitchen sink, there is simply no better platform on the market.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
RockyMounts GuideRail View on Amazon
For those who primarily use their R1S to haul high-end mountain bikes, the RockyMounts GuideRail (when paired with any of the crossbars above) is my top recommendation. While technically a bike mount that sits *on* the rack, its integration with the Rivian’s height and roofline is superb. It uses a dual-arm design that only touches the tires, which is essential if you have a carbon fiber frame you want to protect. The build quality is burly, with plenty of brass and chain-link security features. I find that on the R1S, having a mount that is easy to load from the side steps is a huge plus. It’s a specialized pick, but if your R1S is essentially a shuttle vehicle for your cycling addiction, the GuideRail provides the peace of mind you need when hauling $10k bikes at 75 mph.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Roof Rack for your Rivian R1S
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rivian Cargo Crossbars | OEM Integration | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Yakima JetStream | Range Efficiency | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Thule WingBar Evo | Accessory Ecosystem | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Front Runner Slimline II | Overlanding | ★★★★★ | Check |
| RockyMounts GuideRail | Bicycle Transport | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can the Rivian R1S roof actually hold?
The Rivian R1S is rated for a dynamic load of 250 lbs when the vehicle is in motion. This includes the weight of the crossbars themselves plus your gear. However, the static load capacity—when the vehicle is parked—is significantly higher, often cited around 750 lbs. This is what allows the R1S to safely support a rooftop tent with multiple occupants inside without damaging the structural pillars or the glass roof.
Will a roof rack void my Rivian warranty?
Using a roof rack will not void your vehicle warranty, provided you use the factory mounting points and stay within the weight limits. However, if you use a universal “clamp-on” style rack that attaches to the door sills or puts pressure directly on the glass, you risk damage that Rivian will not cover. Always stick to racks designed specifically for the R1S’s mounting hardware to ensure safety.
How much does a roof rack affect the R1S driving range?
In my testing, a set of empty aerodynamic crossbars (like the OEM or Yakima JetStream) typically results in a 1% to 3% decrease in range. If you add a bulky cargo box or a rooftop tent, that hit can jump to 10% or even 20% at high highway speeds. To minimize this, remove the racks when they aren’t in use and choose gear with a slim, aerodynamic profile.
Are the Rivian crossbars difficult to install?
Not at all. The Rivian Cargo Crossbars are arguably the easiest roof racks to install in the entire automotive world. They use a tool-free, telescoping locking system. You simply align them with the mounting points, press down to lock, and flip a lever. It takes less than a minute. Third-party racks from Yakima or Thule require tools and about 20-30 minutes for the initial assembly and installation.
Can I still use the panoramic roof with a rack installed?
Yes, you can still see through the panoramic roof, but the crossbars will obviously obstruct part of the view. The R1S roof is a fixed glass panel (it does not slide or tilt), so there is no risk of the rack interfering with a mechanical opening. If you install a full platform rack like the Front Runner, you will lose most of your skyward visibility, so keep that in mind.
Final Verdict
For the majority of R1S owners, the official Rivian Cargo Crossbars are the right choice—the convenience of the tool-free install is worth the extra cost. If you’re a hardcore overlander, the Front Runner Slimline II is the only way to go for serious gear hauling. For those looking to save a bit of money while maintaining range, the Yakima JetStream system offers a sleek, efficient alternative that won’t let you down on the road.