Rack Systems, Carriers & Vehicle Accessories

Do I need an appointment for installation?

Appointments are recommended, especially during peak winter (ski season) and summer (bike and camping season). That said, we often have openings for quick installs.

If you’re in Aspen, Basalt, Carbondale, Snowmass, or Glenwood Springs, give us a call or stop by our shop and we’ll get you scheduled quickly.

How long does a rack installation take?

Most installs take 30–90 minutes, depending on the system and vehicle.

• Crossbars only: ~30 minutes

• Bike rack or ski rack: 30–45 minutes

• Cargo box install and alignment: 45–90 minutes

• Hitch installs: varies by vehicle (typically 1–2 hours)

We ensure proper torque specs, alignment, and safety checks before you leave.

Can you help me choose the right rack for my vehicle?

Absolutely.

We’ll ask:

• What vehicle do you drive?

• Do you have factory rails or a bare roof?

• What are you carrying (bikes, skis, snowboards, kayaks, cargo, rooftop tent)?

• How often will you use it?

We carry and install major brands including:

• Thule

• Kuat

• Rhino-Rack

• SmartCap

• And more!

We match the system to your roof type, load rating, gear, and day-to-day usability.

Do you carry replacement parts or keys?

Yes. We stock common replacement parts including:

• Lock cores and replacement keys

• Mounting hardware

• Straps and tie-downs

• Brackets and clamps

• End caps and covers

If we don’t have it in stock, we can special order parts quickly.

Can I leave a rack or cargo box on my car year-round?

You can — but it depends on the product.

• Crossbars: Typically fine year-round

• Bike trays: Often fine to leave on

• Cargo boxes: Best removed when not in use to reduce UV damage, drag, and noise

• Ski racks: Often removed in summer

In Colorado’s high-elevation sun (Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt), UV exposure is stronger than most places, so removing seasonal gear can extend product life.

Do racks or cargo boxes affect gas mileage or wind noise?

Yes, any roof-mounted system can increase aerodynamic drag and wind noise.

However:

• Modern aero crossbars are significantly quieter

• Proper positioning reduces buffeting

• Cargo boxes designed with wind tunnels are much quieter than older models

We install systems with optimal spacing and alignment to minimize noise.

How much weight can my vehicle’s roof hold?

Every vehicle has two key ratings:

• Dynamic Load Rating (while driving)

• Static Load Rating (parked — important for rooftop tents)

We check manufacturer specs before recommending any system. Overloading your roof can damage the vehicle or create unsafe driving conditions.

If you're considering rooftop tents or heavy cargo setups in the Colorado mountains, verifying this number is critical.

Do you offer warranty on installations?

Yes.

• All installations are covered by our workmanship guarantee.

• Products carry manufacturer warranties.

If something doesn’t feel right after install, come back and we’ll make it right.

Can you explain how to load and lock everything?

Definitely.

After installation, we provide a hands-on walkthrough covering:

• Loading bikes, skis, snowboards, or cargo

• Adjusting clamps and trays

• Installing and removing lock cores

• Proper torque and tightening checks

• Best practices for winter driving in Colorado

We want you confident before you leave.

Do you install trailer hitches?

Yes. We install receiver hitches for most vehicles and SUVs.

We’ll verify:

• Tow rating

• Hitch class (I, II, III, IV)

• Wiring requirements

• Ground clearance

If you’re planning to run a hitch-mounted bike rack or cargo carrier, we’ll make sure the setup is level and properly secured.

What’s better: roof-mounted bike rack or hitch-mounted rack?

It depends on your priorities.

Roof Rack Advantages:

• Keeps rear access clear

• Great for multiple vehicle setups

Hitch Rack Advantages:

• Easier to load

• No overhead lifting

• Better for heavier bikes (e-bikes)

Brands like Kuat specialize in premium hitch-mounted systems ideal for Colorado mountain biking.

Are ski racks safe in highway conditions?

Yes, when properly installed and locked.

We recommend:

• Locking skis to the rack

• Checking clamp tension periodically

• Clearing ice buildup after storms

Colorado winter road salt and snow require occasional maintenance and lubrication of moving parts.

Can I fit fat skis or wide snowboards in modern ski racks?

Yes. Most current racks accommodate wide powder skis common in Aspen and Snowmass. We’ll confirm width specs before purchase.

How do I know what size cargo box I need?

Consider:

• How many people are traveling

• Length of skis (some boxes fit skis up to 210cm)

• Garage height clearance

• Vehicle roof length

We test fit boxes before finalizing install to ensure hatch clearance.

Will a cargo box fit in my garage?

We measure:

• Vehicle height

• Crossbar height

• Box height

If clearance is tight, we’ll discuss lower-profile options.

Do you sell and install truck caps or toppers?

Yes, including premium systems like SmartCap.

These are modular, stainless-steel toppers ideal for:

• Overlanding

• Contractor setups

• Lockable gear storage

We also install bed racks, lighting, and accessories.

Can you install roof racks on truck toppers?

Yes — depending on the topper model and weight rating. Static and dynamic load ratings must be verified before rooftop tent or heavy cargo installs.

Can racks damage my vehicle?

When installed correctly, no.

Improper installs can cause:

• Paint damage

• Water intrusion

• Roof deformation

We use proper torque specs, protective pads, and fit kits designed specifically for your vehicle.

Do you offer mobile installation?

We do not offer mobile installation.

High-quality rack and glass installs require:

• Controlled environment

• Proper curing time (for adhesive-based systems)

• Access to full hardware inventory

• Quality control standards

Our shop provides:

• Comfortable waiting area

• WiFi

• Coffee

• Product showroom

We prioritize precision and long-term reliability over rushed installs.

Why buy locally instead of ordering online?

Buying from a local shop in Aspen like Cracks & Racks means:

• Professional installation

• Immediate troubleshooting

• Proper fit verification

• Access to replacement parts

• Ongoing support

In the Roaring Fork Valley, local expertise matters!