It's very nice if you have a RTT. Otherwise, it's just a flat surface with little to none side supports if you want to carry something that extends the safari basket. It looks well designed tho but I like the GOBI low profile as you still can mount RTT on those too and still have side supports.
But, unlike the GOBI, this rack is low profile so that while you're actually driving with it, there's less wind resistance. Gas mileage is only affected when you're driving, not when you're parked. If you're hauling something else, without the RTT, I'm sure you can still tie it down fairly easily.
It is a compleete replacement, so you dont have to worry about the factory mounting feet.
But there have been a more than a few people use RTT's on top of factory racks over the years. In fact I have been known to sleep on top mine from time to time.
Yeah, the factory rack is rated for 150lbs, but that is for a vehicle in motion. 150lbs is more than enough to rip the rack off and become flying debris in a collision. As far as a stationary vehicle, the roof and rack can support at least 800lbs, provided the load is evenly distributed. I've been on the roof with two friends but we spread the load with a 4'x8' sheet of 3/4" marine grade plywood. A RTT with people should be no issue.
Yup. I weighed 280 last time I was up on the roof of my '08. I've actually seen pics of a second gen the rolled without blowing the back window out. The body structures of these things are pretty damn strong.
My wife and I weigh around 325 combined and have also been on top of my 1st Gen (with support from a plywood sheet) to watch fireworks. Held up with no issues.
Her 2nd Gen is even stronger. I hit a garage support (parking garage when she had a Load Warrior on top) and it actually shove the truck down and wedged me in there. Although the crossbar mount cracked (stocker), the roof rack itself shows zero signs of budging. I powered out of it and only had to replace the crossbar. Those are the weak links.
I'm planning on an RTT setup for mine after I SAS. I'm looking forward to some panning/camping excursions and don't want to be too out in the open in the country I'm planning on being in (severe back country).
My friend has a 2006 or 2007. He had a tree fall on it during one of the hurricanes. There is a small dent in the top of the rear passenger door and a dent in the roof rack rail. The door still seals; no leaks. That was the sum total of a large (8-10" in diameter) live oak limb bashing into his ride. I'll get pics from him some time this week.