I need cross bars for my rx350, should I go with lexus original(330$ canadian around my neck of the woods), or are there other options with better quality and lower cost out there? would like to hear your opinion guys and gals.

 

Do a search. Bad idea, get thule aero bars and feet.

 

if you will get thule, you will be able to reuse it on other car..if you get lexus, they would be only for this rx...

pluses for lexus bars that I see:

It would be same height as rail bars, because they would be integrated into them...thules bars will have arms which will hold on to rails, and will be like 10cm heigher...

Lexus bars would make less wind noise and would look much better..

 

I agree, do a search here and you'll find a thread with some pictures of the Thule Aero. They look quite nice, I think, plus they apparently hold more weight than the factory ones and are more versatile.

 

Thank you all, you've been very helpful. Is there any particular modele of Thul that you would recomendand if yes where is the best place to get it from?

 

Speaking from personal knowledge since I have both the Thule and Lexus bars instead of hypothesizing... a few points:

Thules may work with other cars. All depends on the roof rails/gutters. You may need different feet or wider bars, so it isn't guaranteed unless you plan on buying your next car so it's compatible with your Thule crossbars and feet.

Benefit of the Thules is you only need to put them on when you need them. The Lexus crossbars have to be left on and are a pain to pull off. Cuts down on overall wind noise.

Thules are just as quiet as the Lexus crossbars. I personally think they make less noise than the Lexus bars at highway speeds.

In terms of level... yes and no. Where the Lexus crossbars hook into the roof rails yes... however they curve upwards as you move to the middle of the crossbar where they are higher than the rails (convex). It's a pain to install a cargo box on the roof with that curve.

Other benefit of the Thules is that they can carry more weight than the Lexus crossbars.

Amazon.com... Thule Aero feet 450R, 47" Aero bars and 4 lock cores.

 

I got the Thule 450R Rapid Crossroad foot pack(these attach to the factory rails) and RB47 Rapid Aero cross bars. The Thule site lists many online dealers.

 

Thule it is then. Thanks so much guys, as ususal you've been very helpful