[rsegado]

I got my new GTI exactly a month ago. The little thing feels very solid and rides like a dream, though I haven't taken it past 180 since it is not fully broken-in yet. The all-speed traction control is a real asset where I live. I routinely drive on a poorly plowed road with two wheels on dry pavement and two on ice or snow--I can see the traction control light blinking but the car stays straight like an arrow and the rpms don't shoot up. The suspension is just perfect for our louzy roads. And the dealer (Valley Volkswagen) was great and delivered everything as promissed.
Just a minor thing. Any suggestion on the best way to carry a windsurf board on a 2002 GTI? I thought of using Yakima or Thule bars but I am concerned about upsetting the rubber seal and getting wind noise even after removing the rack. Also, the antena is in the way!!!


[Modified by rsegado, 8:42 PM 2-10-2002]

 

[Bodyboarder999]

Re: New GTI and Windsurfer (rsegado)

You can get the rack from VW i don't think it messes up the seals but it cost more from them. The antenne will screw outfrom the base if you need more room too but it leaves a hole that would rust if its kepted out in the open.(how big is your windsurf board, i have been about to fit a long board on the roof of my golf just fine)

 

[landrumdh]

Re: New GTI and Windsurfer (rsegado)

all racks mount the same. You have to remove the upper rubber seal to geto the mounting points. I say get the Thule because you can buy other accesories that'll fit it.
that piece of weather stripping is just pushed in.

 

[BoraVR6]

Re: New GTI and Windsurfer (rsegado)

I've got a Thule Rack and the rack won't hurt your rubber door seals. So don't worry about that. Of the three (VW, Yakima, Thule) I like the way the Thule rack attaches best - the clip slides completely over the studs coming out of the roofline vs the Yakima clip that is slotted.

 

[rsegado]

Re: New GTI and Windsurfer (Bodyboarder999)

Thanks. My board is really long and will stick out the back if I want to distribute the weight evenly between the two bars. I will see if I can get an antena that folds back--sort of spring-loaded. I will probably go with the VW rack tough I have an almost new Yakima from my old Toyota and could use the same bars and locks. I also like the round bars since they always make perfect contact, regardless of the roof and cargo shapes. http://****************.com/smile/emthup.gif

 

[BoraVR6]

Re: New GTI and Windsurfer (rsegado)

You can get a TT antenna from http://www.parts4vws.com It is only about 3" long and if you get it from parts4vws will already be threaded for your existing antenna base. Otherwise, if you get the TT antenna from Audi, it will need to be rethreaded

 

[landrumdh]

Re: New GTI and Windsurfer (rsegado)

my thule rack says you need to tie the front and rear of the board down to the tow hooks on the front and back of the car.
And the only reason I don't recommend VW racks is because you have to buy them from VW and VW isn't known to be competively priced for most of thier accessoires.