Two roof rack crossbar options

[Qashqai]

I would like to buy a roof rack crossbar. Here are the two options:

Option 1: http://www.leeparts.com/nissan_rogue/ac ... rails.html?

It is original, so I can install a bike carrier and attach our two heavy mountain bikes on top of our precious Rogue with confident. However it is expensive (including the shipping it is close to $200) and adding customs, brokerage fee, taxes, it will be something like $250-$280

Option 2: http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vie ... 79535#shId

It is NOT original, I am not sure if they can carry the weight of the bicycles (I didn't ask the seller, because I am %100 sure he will say "yes, sure it can"). However it is just $130 (including the shipping, brokerage fees and taxes!!!). They already sold 27 of them and I read all 27 comments of the buyers and they were happy (I am not sure if they bought them just for the "look" of fancy metal crossbars or "carrying heavy stuff". Maybe someone in the forum uses one??).

I am pretty sure Philipa_240sx will choose "option 1" but what do you think? Should I save money and risk my car or spend money and use them with confidence?

[MadOx75]

I'm always of the opinion that you don't take chances with your 20-30 thousand dollar car over the difference of $100-$150 bucks, but that's just me. I tried searching for the model number the guy posted and nothing came up. Maybe sent him a message and ask who makes them and see what you can find out?

[takeshi]

I am pretty sure Philipa_240sx will choose "option 1" but what do you think? Should I save money and risk my car or spend money and use them with confidence?

I think he'll actually suggest option 3: "A good aftermarket rack". We have the factory cross bars and they really aren't all that great IMO. We picked up a Yakima Loadwarrior and it sits slightly tilted back due to the crossbars. I bought some gunwale brackets but the factory bars were not wide enough for the canoe I was trying to carry.

Maybe it's not as bad with bike carriers though...

[philipa_240sx]

If you want to do some serious hauling, forget the OEM crossbars. Aftermarket is the best option as I've said many times.

Even with the Yakima Lowrider & crossbars, and some very careful placement, a canoe or cargo box will still be 'tilted' up. The canoe below looks like it's level, but that's because of it's placement and the shape of the gunwales. Moving the rear crossbar further forward is not an option... it would reduce stability.