XC90 Roof bars

[rustybaby]

Hi All, I've just bought some genuine Volvo Roof bars and some Volvo Cycle carriers for our XC90. I have fitted them by means of the 'T' fixing bolts, as the volvo aero bars are too wide to use the clamps that go around the aero bars.

If any members on here are using the same equipment, can you please tell me if you are supposed to re-insert the black rubber trim, to the aero bars ? If yes, are you supposed to cut it to suit the gaps between the cycle carriers (I have 3)
Should I just leave the rubber trim out ?
Thanks,
Russ

[Lzygo]

The rubber serves two purposes.
1 - Stop a set of ladders from slipping when strapped to the bars.

2 - Reduce wind noise - which if you have fitted cycle carriers is no point.

So no need to use the rubber - keep it for when you sell or carry some ladders ;-)

[pdr944]

Originally Posted by rustybaby

Hi All, I've just bought some genuine Volvo Roof bars and some Volvo Cycle carriers for our XC90. I have fitted them by means of the 'T' fixing bolts, as the volvo aero bars are too wide to use the clamps that go around the aero bars.

If any members on here are using the same equipment, can you please tell me if you are supposed to re-insert the black rubber trim, to the aero bars ? If yes, are you supposed to cut it to suit the gaps between the cycle carriers (I have 3)
Should I just leave the rubber trim out ?
Thanks,
Russ

hi,

i did exactly the same.bought a set of volvo aero bars off ebay and then bought two cycle carriers from towsure and made it all up.i cut the rubbers and refitted them and the whole thing works brilliant with no holes drilled through the aero bars.you can obtain the rubbers as a volvo spare so the bars can be returned to there original state if you want to sell them.
this is by far the best way to carry bikes IMO as there is no restriction at the rear of the vehicle which is good if you tow a caravan like myself.

mind ow ya go

peter.

[rustybaby]

Thanks guys, something to consider from both replies.
Like peter, I think I will probably cut them (just think it will look better, and if I can slip it underneath the metal feet of the cycle carriers it will prevent marking the bars)
Peter, I also tow a caravan, am looking forward to taking it to lake garda for the summer.... + 5 bikes !

Regards,
Russ

[pdr944]

sounds like a great trip and i,ve never had a problem with roof mounted bikes.

all the best

peter.

[rustybaby]

Well, I've just done my 1st trip with the bikes today. No problems at all. The aluminium volvo carriers are just the dogs.... Steady as a rock!!!
I'm only 5' 6" and had no problem at all getting the bikes on and off my XC90.
Now I just have to convince my missus that I need a downhill bike to go with my front suspension mtb.
Roll on July
The mighty atom (aka Russ)