Okay, picture this: you're finally going on that epic camping trip you've been planning for months. Tent, check. Sleeping bags, check. Enough snacks to feed a small army... definitely check. But wait! How are you going to get that ridiculously oversized kayak to the lake? Your Telluride's already packed tighter than a clown car at a circus convention. This, my friends, is where the magic of cross bars comes in.
Ever wondered what those horizontal bars are on top of some Kia Tellurides? Or maybe you’re staring at your own Telluride right now, scratching your head, wondering, “What are those things really for?” Don't worry, you're not alone. Let's dive into the wonderful world of Telluride cross bars!
What Exactly ARE Cross Bars?
In the simplest terms, cross bars are those bars that attach horizontally across the roof rails of your Kia Telluride. Think of them as the foundation for carrying extra cargo. The roof rails, which run lengthwise along the roof, are already part of your Telluride (at least if you opted for that feature). The cross bars connect *to* these rails.
They're like the scaffolding that lets you build upwards, expanding your Telluride's carrying capacity. Without them, you're pretty much stuck with whatever you can squeeze inside. (And trust me, with kids, dogs, and camping gear, that ain't much!) Side note: always check your Telluride’s owner's manual for maximum roof load. Safety first, people!
What Can You Carry With Them?
The possibilities are almost endless! Really, limited only by your imagination (and the weight limit, of course). Here are a few of the most common uses:
- Roof Boxes/Cargo Carriers: Need extra space for luggage, camping gear, or even skis? A roof box is your best friend. Just strap it onto those cross bars.
- Bikes: Bike racks are a super common use. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a serious cyclist, cross bars allow you to easily transport your bikes.
- Kayaks/Canoes: Remember my kayak dilemma from the beginning? Cross bars and kayak carriers are the solution!
- Surfboards/Paddleboards: Catching some waves? Your board can ride safely on top.
- Lumber/Construction Materials: Okay, maybe not the *most* glamorous use, but hey, sometimes you gotta haul some wood, right? (Just be sure to secure it properly!). Seriously, use proper straps and make sure it's really, really secure. You don't want to be THAT person losing lumber on the highway.
Basically, if it's bulky, awkward, or just plain doesn't fit inside, chances are you can carry it on your Telluride's roof with the help of cross bars.
Types of Cross Bars
Not all cross bars are created equal! You'll find different styles and materials. Here's a quick rundown:
- Fixed Point vs. Adjustable: Fixed point bars are designed for a specific location on your roof rails, while adjustable bars can be moved along the rails for greater flexibility. Pro tip: Adjustable are usually the way to go unless you have a *very* specific setup in mind.
- Aero vs. Square: Aero bars are shaped like an airplane wing to reduce wind noise and drag. Square bars are, well, square. They're usually cheaper but can be a bit louder.
- Material: Most cross bars are made of aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lighter and rust-resistant, while steel is generally stronger and more affordable.
Choosing the right type depends on your needs and budget. Consider what you'll be carrying and how often you'll be using them.
Installation and Considerations
Installing cross bars is usually pretty straightforward. Most aftermarket bars come with instructions and all the necessary hardware. Some even click right into place! However, I always recommend double-checking everything and making sure they're securely tightened. Remember, safety first!
A few things to keep in mind:
- Weight Limit: Always, always, always check the weight limit of your cross bars and your Telluride's roof. Exceeding the limit is dangerous and can damage your vehicle.
- Wind Noise: As mentioned before, some cross bars can create wind noise, especially at higher speeds. Aero bars can help minimize this.
- Height Restrictions: Be aware of your vehicle's overall height with cargo on the roof. You don't want to accidentally scrape your kayak on a low bridge!
So, there you have it! Cross bars: the unsung heroes of the Kia Telluride, transforming it from a family hauler into a versatile adventure machine. Now go forth, load up, and explore! Just remember to secure everything properly...and wave if you see me on the road!
