[samvora]

Newbie to the whole rack world here so excuse any questions that may seem dumb but I read so many threads that I am confused what do I need to be able to load up my skis on the roof for ski trips? I have the rails on the X5 roof. I may also use it for a cargo box in the future so if I can get something that is dual purpose then that is even better. Suggestions, recommendations, ideas, thoughts?

[samvora]

No one?

[Jpflo]

You need the roof supports, then from there you can add on any number of accessories (ski/snowboard rack, cargo box, etc.)

here is the link to the OEM version.
https://www.shopbmwusa.com/PRODUCT/6...SUPPORT-SYSTEM

[samvora]

Originally Posted by Jpflo

You need the roof supports, then from there you can add on any number of accessories (ski/snowboard rack, cargo box, etc.)

here is the link to the OEM version.
https://www.shopbmwusa.com/PRODUCT/6...SUPPORT-SYSTEM

Ok and is the oem version the best one for the money or does anyone else recommend any other brand/package?

[samvora]

Originally Posted by Jpflo

You need the roof supports, then from there you can add on any number of accessories (ski/snowboard rack, cargo box, etc.)

here is the link to the OEM version.
https://www.shopbmwusa.com/PRODUCT/6...SUPPORT-SYSTEM

Thank you for the response

[ewizzle]

Originally Posted by samvora

Ok and is the oem version the best one for the money or does anyone else recommend any other brand/package?

I would stick with the OEM version for the load bars as it has a built in tightening/torque handle. Most other aftermarket (Yakima/Thule/Inno) all have an extra tool used to torque.

Really IMO, just stick with the OEM load bars. All of the BMW accessories are just rebranded Thule. So in theory you could get them from anywhere (REI, FBMP, CL) and just source the mounting hardware from BMW. That's what I did with my ski rack - just reused the Thule ski rack from my old Volvo, and purchased the mounting hardware to attach to the OEM load bars.

[samvora]

Originally Posted by ewizzle

I would stick with the OEM version for the load bars as it has a built in tightening/torque handle. Most other aftermarket (Yakima/Thule/Inno) all have an extra tool used to torque.

Really IMO, just stick with the OEM load bars. All of the BMW accessories are just rebranded Thule. So in theory you could get them from anywhere (REI, FBMP, CL) and just source the mounting hardware from BMW. That's what I did with my ski rack - just reused the Thule ski rack from my old Volvo, and purchased the mounting hardware to attach to the OEM load bars.

Ok so base racks oem and then do I need additional ski racks or do they make base racks that open and I can slide skis in between? If I need ski racks then which ones would go with the oem base rack and which would you recommend?

[JimVR4]

Originally Posted by samvora

Ok so base racks oem and then do I need additional ski racks or do they make base racks that open and I can slide skis in between? If I need ski racks then which ones would go with the oem base rack and which would you recommend?

You need OEM base rack and separate ski rack. I have Thule 91725B Universal Ski & Snowboard Rack Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HPJYBDB...CFH9DGVTHMAQ07

[dananelson1]

I've outlined what my rack system on my new 45e is below; I looked at BMW OEM and two diff Thule systems; good luck.

https://g05.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...4#post28428094