I looked into those when I was looking for a rack last year but it didn't look to be compatible with the pano roof. Then I did some more researching and found that you can get the Thule rack for a Ford Flex for way less than buying the parts individually. I think I paid around $300 shipped for mine. Ford part number is A7FCS-45053-RAA, they're available on eBay. The kit includes the Thule 450R feet, the 53" aero bars and the locks you need.

 

That's a solid option too. Thanks for the heads up!

I can get the Rhino for $250 shipped and it looks like good quality stuff. The roof glass is not a concern as I don't open it.

 

You get what you pay for...

I run Whispbars. Probably the most expensive option, easily the best!

 

You get what you pay for...

Since when are Thule or Rhino racks some cheap brand? Whispbars are cool except that they don't allow you to open the pano roof with them installed. I used to have a set on my Audi.

 

Thule isn't cheap. They make some great racks.

Rhino is definitely on the lower end as far as racks go. Its all in the details man.

As far as the Whispbars not fitting, you sure? Maybe not the 'rail bar', but the 'through bar' should be good to go. I have the 58" (S18) through bars on my Treg and they are rad. Super silent and tons of real estate!

 

Thule isn't cheap. They make some great racks. Rhino is definitely on the lower end as far as racks go. Its all in the details man. As far as the Whispbars not fitting, you sure? Maybe not the 'rail bar', but the 'through bar' should be good to go. I have the 58" (S18) through bars on my Treg and they are rad. Super silent and tons of real estate!

I have always had Thule or Yakima and been happy.

Can you please show me the details where Rhino falls short compared to Thule Aero setup? I have not seen Rhino in person.

 

Only what I have read when researching the cheap option for myself. Biggest thing is wind noise and fitment issues with certain attachments. Specifically the Whispbar WB200 bike racks that I have.

You paid the price for the rig, now get racks for it that do it justice! Haha. Seriously though, love my Whispbars. From what I see, the Whispbar 'through bar' fits all of the roofs. Either the S17s (53") or the S18s (58"). I went for the S18s as I plan on running a box in the middle and a bike on each side.

 

I ended up ordering the Wispbar S55 kit since liked the look of the recessed bars and not worried about opening the pano.

 

Great choice. The low profile of them is a great look!

 

I've owned both the Whispbars (on T-Reg, Audi Avant, Jetta TDi) and Thule Aero's (on Honda Element, CR-V). The rubber seals in the t-slot on the Whispbar is much nicer as it does not need to be cut to fit the accessories like the Thule does. I use Thule Echelon bike mounts and a Yakima Skybox, among other things, on the Whispbars and am very happy with that setup on the T-Reg.

 

I have a hitch rack for my bikes. So the roof will be just for the Thule or Yakima box. It's time to get a new box this winter.

 

Installed the Yakima Wispbars today. Easy install and they look really clean. Glad I bought these since they are so low profile and fit the lines of the Touareg.