Roof Racks

It’s no secret that the vast majority of stock UTVs provide minimal storage capacity beyond the bed, forcing riders to choose between passengers and cargo or leaving critical gear behind. Roof racks solve this by adding secure storage space above the cab without sacrificing bed or seating capacity, creating platforms for mounting accessories, carrying recovery gear, camping equipment, or work supplies. If you’re feeling the squeeze already, never fear, because our team at Side by Side Source is here with a vast selection of roof racks engineered specifically for UTV applications, from lightweight aluminum platforms for occasional cargo to heavy-duty steel racks designed for serious loads and mounting auxiliary lights, antennas, and equipment.

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Buyer's Guide for UTV Roof Racks: Helping You Shop!

Understanding UTV Roof Rack Weight Capacity and Load Distribution

Roof rack capacity specs require careful interpretation to avoid dangerous overloading. Static weight capacity (weight rack can hold when stationary) is typically much higher than dynamic weight capacity (weight rack should carry during riding). Dynamic loads experience amplification from impacts, vibration, and acceleration forces. A 100-pound load can exert 200-300+ pounds of force on mounting points during hard impacts. Safe practice is using racks rated for at least double your intended load.

Focusing only on the raw weight, as important as staying within the limits is, doesn’t address the issue of weight distribution and the resulting impact on your performance and safety. If you stack too much weight up top, you will shift your center of gravity up and increase rollover risk. By keeping the bulkier stuff in your bed, you can prevent this imbalance.

Mounting point strength also matters as much as rack capacity. The strongest rack is useless if mounting points tear out during impacts. Quality racks include reinforced mounting brackets that distribute loads into frame members or roll cage tubes capable of handling forces. Cheap racks that clamp to thin sheet metal or plastic roofs fail when actually loaded and stressed.

UTV Roof Rack Mounting Systems and Compatibility

It’s largely the way in which the rack attaches to your frame that determines just how much of a haul you’re in for installation-wise. For starters, racks that mount directly to your roll cage will typically come with clamps or brackets for a really secure fit. They work regardless of whether you have a factory roof and position racks at optimal height. Compatibility with specific cage tube diameters (typically 1.5"-2") matters, so verify fitment before buying.

Roof-mounted systems attach to factory hard tops or aftermarket roofs, distributing loads across roof structures. They maintain a lower overall height (important for trail clearance or garage doors) but require adequate roof strength. Soft tops or weak plastic roofs can't support significant loads. Verify your roof can handle the rack plus the intended cargo weight. A frame-mounted rack is generally stronger, but keep in mind that they are model-specific in most cases.

Fixed-mount systems require precise fitment but eliminate adjustment mechanisms that could work loose. Tool-free installation features (quick-release clamps, bolt-together designs) simplify removal for machines that sometimes need racks removed, though they sacrifice some security compared to permanently bolted installations.

Let’s Talk Roof Racks and UTV Accessories

Beyond just carrying cargo, quality roof racks provide platforms for mounting accessories. Light mounting is critical for many users—integrated light tabs or mounting channels let you position LED light bars, pods, or spot lights without drilling or jury-rigging mounts. Verify the rack includes proper mounting provisions if lights are planned. Similarly, if you’re going to mount a radio or any other communication hardware to your antenna, make sure you verify that it’s reinforced, as even a little added weight can create a whole lot of torque as that antenna wobbles around.

Flat platforms require careful attention to securing everything properly. Compatibility with awnings or camping accessories matters if you're using your UTV for overlanding or camping. Some racks include integrated mounting for vehicle awnings, creating instant shade at camp. Others accommodate rooftop tents, though the weight and height of rooftop tents make them marginal for most UTV applications.

3 Top Selling UTV Roof Rack Brands

Rough Country manufactures practical roof rack solutions combining adequate capacity with accessible pricing for recreational users.
ThumperFab produces heavy-duty roof racks designed for serious work and recreation with quality construction throughout.
Bad Dawg Accessories offers versatile cargo rack systems designed for real-world use with features riders actually need.

5 Top Selling UTV Roof Rack Products

A major cargo boost for the Maverick X3, this Roof Rack by AFX Motorsports fits super snug and holds what you need.
The Ranger has never had it so good, thanks to this roomy and super tough Roof Rack by ThumperFab!
Universal applications get covered with this Roof Cargo Rack by Bad Dawg, featuring versatile mounting that works across multiple machines.
Can-Am Defender Max HD10 owners get comprehensive coverage with this Deck Roof by Rough Country, providing both the roof and the cargo platform in one system.
This Cargo Rack by Swamp Ox fits multiple Ranger models and confidently carries all your extra gear.

Side-by-Side Roof Rack FAQs

How much cargo can an aftermarket roof rack handle?

Roof-mounted cargo raises your center of gravity and experiences amplified loading during impacts. A roof rack rated for 200 pounds static capacity should carry maybe 75-100 pounds maximum during aggressive trail riding.

Will my side-by-side roof rack affect how my machine handles?

Possibly, when too much weight is added or it is not distributed well.

Will a roof rack affect clearance?

Yes, you can expect most UTV roof racks to add between four and eight inches of height.