Maximizing Garage Clearance with a Ski Rack on the Rivian R1S
R1S Height with Ski Rack
The Rivian R1S is a great vehicle for those looking to get out and explore nature. But if you have a shorter garage, it’s important to consider the total height of the vehicle when installing a ski rack on top. The height without roof rails is listed as 78”, while the roof rails are 4.24”. Yakama ski racks add 5” and another ~2” above that loaded with marker Xcell alpine bindings on Volkl racetiger a with a piston plate. This brings the total height to around 90.25”-92” loaded with skis.
Rivian also offers suspension lowering capabilities which can bring the total height down by 2”, but this still leaves an estimated 80” with OEM crossbars and no ski rack installed. It should be noted that there may be risks associated with driving in low suspension mode; one user reported trashing their cargo basket, roof rails, crossbars, and sunroof due to not lowering his GC Trailhawk with air before entering the garage.
Yakima round bars offer more flexibility for those who need to fit under lower garages. One user has been able to swing his racks down (as seen in pictures) and make it in/out of his garage with the rack on, although he needs to load the skis outside the garage first. To reduce wind noise, he keeps them folded down unless he has skis on top.
For those looking for even lower profile racks, Alpine skis can't go much lower than they already are since there needs to be space between the rack and roof to clear the bindings. Nordic skis could potentially go lower since their bindings are only ~1” above the ski, however this would likely only result in 1” reduction in height.
Overall, it's important to take into consideration your individual situation when deciding whether or not you will be able to install a ski rack onto your R1S and still fit inside your garage.
What is the total height of an R1S with a ski rack installed?
With the Rivian roof rails listed as 4.24”, Yakama ski racks adding 5” and another ~2” above that loaded with marker Xcell alpine bindings on Volkl racetiger a with a piston plate, the total height is approximately 90.25” to 92”. The suspension can be lowered 2” below the roof rails, but even then it would still be around 80” with the OEM crossbars and no ski rack.
Can the ski rack be driven in a folded down position?
Yes, if you have round crossbars, the ski rack can be folded down unless there are skis on top. This also reduces wind noise.
Are there lower profile racks available?
For alpine skis, there cannot be much lower clearance as there needs to be space between the rack and roof to clear the bindings. Nordic skis could go lower since the bindings are only ~1” above the ski, but this would only result in 1” of additional clearance.
What other options are available for ski racks?
There are several other options available for ski racks, including roof-mounted racks, hitch-mounted racks, and trunk-mounted racks. Roof-mounted racks are the most popular option as they are easy to install and provide a secure fit. Hitch-mounted racks are also popular as they can be used with multiple vehicles and offer more flexibility in terms of loading and unloading. Trunk-mounted racks are the least expensive option but require more effort to install and may not provide a secure fit.
Are there any additional accessories I should consider for my ski rack?
Yes, there are several accessories that can be added to your ski rack to make it more convenient and secure. These include locks, tie-down straps, and anti-theft devices. Locks help to prevent theft of your skis and bindings while tie-down straps help to keep them securely in place during transport. Anti-theft devices can also be added to deter thieves from attempting to steal your skis or bindings.