04/04/2026 6:55 am
Topic starter
Notifications
Clear all
BMW Forum
3
Posts
4
Users
0
Reactions
43
Views
0
So I finally got my iX last week and I'm honestly panicking because we have a ski trip to Tahoe in three weeks and the trunk is way smaller than my old X5. I need a roof rack setup fast.
I'm looking at the Thule WingBar Edge because they look sleek but the BMW OEM ones are way cheaper. Like $300 vs $600. But I've heard the OEM ones sit really high and look dorky? I'm mostly scared about the glass roof and if these things are gonna crack it or make crazy whistling sounds at highway speeds. Budget is around 700 bucks total. Is the Thule worth the extra cash for the aerodynamics or should I just stick with the factory bars?
3 Answers
11
04/04/2026 8:00 am
I was terrified of cracking my glass roof when I first rigged mine up. You might want to consider the Thule WingBar Evo 135 or Yakima SkyLine Towers with landing pads. The Thule has better drag specs, but the Yakima is sturdier for heavy skis. Just be careful with foot pack torque; I use a digital wrench to stay under the 4Nm spec to protect the glass. Better safe than sorry!
10
04/04/2026 6:55 am
> I'm looking at the Thule WingBar Edge because they look sleek but the BMW OEM ones are way cheaper. Unfortunately, the BMW OEM Roof Rack Base Support System wasnt as good as expected. They sit very high and the wind noise is problematic during long drives. I eventually switched to the Thule WingBar Edge Roof Rack for BMW iX because it is more aerodynamic. The whistling sound is nonexistent compared to the factory bars. If your budget allows, the Thule system is much better.
4
04/04/2026 7:10 am
Unfortunately, both those options have subpar drag coefficients for an EV. Ive seen data showing a 12 percent range drop with the OEM bars because they lack a trailing edge taper. Quick tips:
- Never exceed the 75kg dynamic load limit on that glass roof.
- Look at Yakima JetStream Black 50 Inch Bars for better wind shedding. Are you planning on mounting just the skis or a full cargo box? Need to know the total weight first.
Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Auto Accessory Picks