Suzuki Jimny Mods, DIY Builds & Camping Videos
Suzuki Jimny Mods, DIY Builds & Camping Videos

An owners experience of the Jimny Roof Load Weight Capability

Geordie Jimny > Guides > An owners experience of the Jimny Roof Load Weight Capability

The Jimny has a reported 30kg roof load limit, some quote official figures of 40kg. I’m not certain what the official stance is but regardless you need to be abundantly aware of roof weight.

In this article I’ll share my experiences and personal opinions to date.

I changed my view

I’ve recently changed my views on roof weight and the Jimny. Those of you who have read my previous blogs will know that I said you don’t notice less than 60kg on the roof. Well this is true to an extent and under certain conditions.

What I failed to make clear is when off-roading, not just driving well maintained paths into woodlands, you will not want to have this amount of weight up top.

It’s very easy to start hitting some big figures once you start configuring your set up. Roam Overland made reference to this in his final videos before selling his Jimny. Another example closer to home is my fellow Jimny pal, Denis from @last_seen_exploring. He ran his Jimny with a significant roof load of 100kg and after hitting some decent tracks in the UK he noted that it did impact the driving experience, to a point that was described as scary. He has the same suspension and the same tyres as me, only bigger.

Here’s what he’s changed it to now that he’s built his own DIY off-road trailer.

Obviously zero roof weight is best but that’s not what I’m trying to highlight with this article. The goal is a lightweight overlander/camper/tourer, whatever you want to call it. Complete with all the creature comforts of the bigger overland style vehicles.

As Jimny owners we need to adopt the viewpoint of Ultralight Backpackers.

It’s perhaps a bit hipster and frankly if you want good kit it can get expensive too. The best way to reduce weight is to take less kit though and that’s the cheapest way to get out there enjoying nature.

For the serious off-roaders.

You need to watch this video.

There’s a term called off-road load limit that some rack and load bar manufacturers give capacity limits for. I reached out to Front Runner to ask what their load bars off-road weight capacity was. I wasn’t given a figure and instead was asked to refer to my vehicle manufacturers load limit. So this doesn’t shed any light on what they’re capable of. Ultimately, for Jimny owners the weakest link in the chain is going to be the load capacity of the vehicle.

I can’t see how running a roof tent, full front runner rack and storage boxes makes sense if you’re doing the kind of tracks that guys like @the_little_rig do, give Darren’s YouTube channel a sub, it’s a good one.

This is hopefully a fairly obvious statement, but I’ll reiterate it anyway for people like me who aren’t experienced off-roaders. Roof load capacity while off-roading is far less than the load limit of your vehicle on-road.

I’m starting to see more Jimny owners opting for a lightweight trailer to deliver the camping experience they want after hitting the trails for the day. This can sometimes be expensive but in my view it’s the best option if you want to do what the Jimny was made for and still enjoy a superb camping experience. One day I’d love to have a basecamp style set up using an off-road trailer.

There’s also swags and ground tents but you’re eating into the storage space keeping large camping equipment in your Jimny. This is why smart storage solutions are essential, optimising every square inch of the vehicle and paying close attention to the payload of your kit. Every kilogram matters.

For the light off-roader and camper.

You should be aiming for less than 60kg roof load (that includes the rack or load bars). You will see some Jimny owners with 70kg+ but I can’t recommend it unless you have upgraded your suspension. Even running my own lightweight setup you will feel it. If you want to load it up with a ton of gear, roof tents, metal bumpers, recovery gear, fridges, sliders, drawers, etc, this is not the car for you.

Even 60kg up top isn’t ideal on stock suspension. I’ve been running 52kg for most of 2020 and it feels good on road and on the easy off-road tracks. However, before you buy anything please be aware that initially, I’m fairly certain that you will feel conscious of the added weight, I did. I’m not risk averse so if you are that way inclined (i.e. sensible), it will make you nervous until you settle into the feel of the car.

Recently I increased my roof load to 57kg since upgrading to the Darche Eclipse 180 Rear awning. My goal is to modify my roof tent in 2021 to reduce the weight. The target is -7kg, bringing my total roof load to 50kg.

What changes I’ve made to help handle roof load.

Firstly, I changed the stock tyres to a wider 215/75R15. The Toyo Open Country A/T Plus tyres have a stiffer sidewall than the stock tyres and this helps reduce some side to side wobble. BF Goodrich KO2’s have an even stiffer sidewalls but they are a heavier tyre. Update: I’ve since changed to BF Goodrich KO2’s 215/70R16 and I’m very happy with them.

I upgraded the stock suspension to a stiffer OME set up. This further increased the stability and feel of the car with roof weight on.

Rightly or wrongly I added 30mm wheel spacers to widen the stance of the vehicle and this has helped stabilise the car better when cornering. This isn’t a sensible modification if you plan to go off-roading as it will increase the stress on your wheel bearings. The wheel spacers are now removed and I’ve also increased to a 16″ wheel.

I pay a lot of attention to overall payload focusing on eliminating every piece of unnecessary kit and/or replacing anything with lighter weight options as I discover them. I still take too much kit with me when camping and will continue to refine it. It’s not the cheap way of doing things but at least I can share the results so you can make better informed purchasing decisions in future.

Final thoughts

If you’re like me and don’t do anything challenging off road, instead opt for enjoying the great outdoors and the occasional camping trip, then the roof tent on a Jimny concept does work. Within its limits.

I’m sharing my personal experiences, research from many conversations with other owners as well as tests carried out myself over the months we’ve had our Jimny. Your experience and expectations may vary. I share a lot of content on social media, my website and YouTube so it’s important that I make the reality clear for anyone stumbling across it:

  • Going heavy on roof load will make the Jimny less capable off-road (obviously!).
  • You will get less fuel economy.
  • You will need to drive more carefully at speed, lowering the top speed you would naturally travel at.
  • You will need to increase your breaking distance.
  • You will want to check your rack before, during and after each trip.
  • If you carelessly add roof load without serious consideration it’s a bad idea! Please be safe.

Hope this article helps you, comment below if you have any questions I can try to help with.

Paul @GeordieJimny
About the author

I created Geordie Jimny out of my passion for the Suzuki Jimny, camping and creating things. I share it all here, on my YouTube channel and Instagram.
87 Responses
  1. Avatar photo
    Jacob

    I have an order in for a Jimny at the moment and am going through the planning stages for everything. Out of interest, do you ever sleep two people in your roof top tent? I’m concerned that the gutters couldn’t handle the 60kg of equipment and 150kg of two people.

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Static weight we’ve slept 2 people no problem similar weights. It’s the load while moving that’s the concern. Less than 60kg is the goal in my opinion.

      1. Avatar photo
        Jeffrey Bails

        I run an 05 Jimmy with a custom engineered roof rack and bolted it into the roof. Cost a bit but won’t come off. I carry a King RTT (57kgs) and golf clubs on top for the past 4yrs on and off-road trips. I have upgraded suspension plus upgraded the sway bars which helped to limit the rolling. I run 225 75 r15 wranglers with stiff sidewall.
        I have 2 siding draws and a 45l fridge in the back, permanent fixtures.
        I’m travelling around Australia and the car performs like a dream. It’s no land cruiser but it goes everywhere I ask it to.
        But the weight on the roof does roll and affects braking. I put the disc on my rear to replace drums too.
        Great car for 2. Oh sleeps 2 in comfort on top

  2. Avatar photo
    Chang

    This is a great summary of what little jimny can do with its roof, especially when we are looking for the roof system to go with our jimny and fit our needs. thank you so much for posting!

    Also there is one thing to share as what we came across in the market here in Australia, ARB makes a full size roof rack (1545mm x 1285mm) for jimny which weights only ~17kg, as well as a 3/4 size roof rack (1255mm x 1285mm) around 14kg. These would be good alternatives vs. heavier frontrunner racks but still good built quality.

    However after I read your article I now decided to go with the roof bar system just for its lighter weight. 🙂

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi Chang, those arb racks sound good. ~10kg saving on both versions is great! Thanks for the share I’ll try find links and add them to the article.

      Cheers ????

  3. Avatar photo
    Mephisto

    Thank you for your continuously informative posts!

    Dreaming of taking my Jimny for long-distance road trip around Europe and Central Asia. What are your thoughts on having rooftop tents for such trips? I am guessing the roads would not be extreme off-road style…

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      You’re welcome, I enjoy writing them 🙂

      If you keep as much under 60kg roof load as possible then a roof tent for long-term travel is great. We’ve been driving around with the tent on 24/7 for over a year as we have nowhere to store it.

      It’s just proper off-roading where it’s going to cause major safety issues. Those nice hard shell tents are much heavier so I would avoid turn on a Jimny unless you use load bars only and consider the SkyCamp mini. But I’d definitely keep the ladder in the boot instead of up top.

  4. Avatar photo
    Nick Atkinson

    Hi there,

    We have the 2019 model Jimny and looking to get a roof tent. Thinking of the Tentbox cargo but note what you have said about the weight issues which are very helpful. We don’t drive the Jimny off road and would really only be driving on grass verges etc to park up in places like Scotland and the islands where we see a good spot.

    From your experience do you think the weight (circa 64kg) would represent an issue for this type of use?

    Thanks in advance.

    Nick

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi nick if you stick with using load bars to avoid the extra weight of a roof rack then you can probably get away with it. If you can keep the ladder and bedding in the car that would help too.

      70kg is at the cap of the weight that we felt was nerve racking at times. You’ll need to keep below 65mph in my opinion, but it’s doable. No more than 60mph would be more sensible.

      Again this is all personal preference. If you have a lift kit and stiffer suspension and wider tyres then it’ll feel different.

  5. Avatar photo
    Lars

    Hey guys. Considering buying a Skypcamp Mini and use 2 x Frontrunner loadbars. Does anyone have experience with this set-up? I won’t go off-road. I would have the tent on my new Jimny 24-7 from April thru October. Would you deem this irresponsible or a bad solution? Would 3 loadbars be preferable? Any counsel for these intensions of mine?

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi mate,

      If I had the budget for one I would buy that or wait for the x-cover mini. Hardshell will be better though given all the reviews I’ve watched.

      Skycamp Mini = 57 kg
      Front Runner Load Bars = 7 kg
      —————————-
      TOTAL 64kg

      If you’re adding an awning you’ll need to factor in anything from 8 kg to 13 kg (approx)

      If you’re running stock suspension you’ll definitely feel 64kg on the roof and have to lower top speed and just drive more carefully. In my opinion, at least that was my experience.

      I’ve seen a Japanese jimny with a skycamp mini on and a huge 270 awning. You’ll notice the clearance on the wheel arches is greatly reduced so you can see the weight bearing down. It obviously works as they’re posting some great content on Instagram while camping across Japan.

      You could keep the telescopic ladder from the skycamp mini in the boot to lower some of the weight on the roof and that will reduce the roof load by approx 6kg. However that is assuming their weight estimates are including the ladder on their website.

      It’s a lovely tent and it can work for sure. I’d just very carefully consider other items you might want to mount on the roof too.

      Again this is all my own personal opinion and imagine people who do ride with 60+ on the roof would disagree with me.

      Hopefully someone might be able to contribute in the comments. 🙂

  6. Avatar photo
    Mel Clark

    Hi Geordi,
    Just watched the vlog of Ronny Dahl, a 4×4 expert in Australia. Hes just posted a very honest and quite moving blog entitled ” I stuffed up”. Its all about roof top maximum loads. Well worth watching. If the Jimny max is 30K the full length frontrunner rack is 27K ! So whats the point. I still think your sleeping inside arrangement is the way to go (or a groundtent).
    Appreciate all your postings. Great information

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi yeah I’ve been following that too. It does beg the question as to what the off road capacity the Jimny has. On road I’ll still aim for 50-60kg max with my setup. If I can get it lower I will though.

      It’s not worth the risk doing all this pack horse style roof loads if you’re off-roading in my view. There’s definitely arguments for going lightweight on-road too and maybe it’ll transpire that 50-60 kg isn’t great either. There’s always some element of risk/reward people will take, myself included.

      Interesting stuff and certainly isn’t great news for some companies out there.

      1. Avatar photo
        Robert Tregaskis

        Awesome site. Great article.

        I agree, this is proving to be quite a hot topic, understandably for such a controversial key limitation to any ‘on or off’ road overnight adventure.

        Seriously thinking of repurposing my rack by possibly travelling whilst storing everything inside and then setup camp and either sleep inside or see if something like this becomes a light weight alternative roof space.

        https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/rooftop-tent-van-500-fresh-black-2-p/_/R-p-313004

  7. Avatar photo
    Heinz

    Thanks for that article who shows, that we have to talk too about, what offroad really means! I like your blog and have set too a link back to you (follow), would be nice to see the same 😉

    I did compare the offroad cargo capacity issue for a ford range ute and a land cruiser:

    https://vanlife.4x4tripping.com/2021/03/roof-load-weight-and-roof-top-tent.html

    Personally I didnt see a lot of broken roof racks, but did see a lot of Utes with RTT Setup who was doing some serious offroad. Do you know some examples of impact?

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi, I’m not a big off-roader myself. As far as I know there’s been no reports of failure on the gen 4 Jimny with an RTT, yet. I am still a firm believer in not pushing our luck, I know I’m over the recommended capacity for roof load and will be taking steps to reduce my set up further 🙂

  8. Avatar photo
    Simon

    There is a roof rack available in germany that safely extends the roof load capacity up to 85kg. I have not tried it myself, but laws in germany are very strict and they have a components certificate. You also have to register it. The website is only in german though.

    https://www.wild-land-drivers.de/shop/wild-jimny/dachtraeger-system/dachtraeger/351/dachtraeger-suzuki-jimny-gj-hj

    I have also already seen Jimny Videos on youtube using it in combination with hard shell rooftop tents. But only in german as well.

  9. Avatar photo
    Gerard

    Great information here.
    I’m wanting to get more out of my Jimny, currently light off road only to get to some trout streams..

    Looking at carrying a canoe , weight approx. ~30kg , 3.0 M length.
    Is this possible with a JImny, and what roof rack system would you recommend?

    Alternatively a light trailer – again any recommendations?

    Cheers, Gerard

  10. Avatar photo
    Loriane

    Hi Geordie;

    Ive just purchased a 2012 Jimny in very good conditions. I live in Western Australia, summer is going to be around in a few months so Id like to get ready for camping. I’ve been reading all the comments, seems like owners have jimnies way newer than mine. Does that change anything about load on the car ? Im confused about the load on the roof, is it less than 60kg when driving ? Because I have read 30kg. But what about when the car is parked and 2 adults gets in the tent to sleep, will it damaged the car over time ? what’s the safest weight ? Do you know what’s the lightest roof top tent on the market ?

    Thank you very much for your time.

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi Loriane, yeah anyone adding roof tents to their Jimny’s are exceeding the recommended roof load limit. I only have experience of the gen 4 model personally but there are a number of gen 3 Jimny’s with roof tents on. I believe there are some modifications you would need to make to the load bar roof mounts among other things. I will add that while it’s possible it doesn’t mean it’s safe and I would seek the advice of someone who has loaded a roof tent on your model. Perhaps http://www.bigjimny.com forum might shed some light for you. I’m fairly certain the consensus will be ‘don’t do it’ by the more conservative Jimny enthusiast but like everything it’s all about risk/reward and certainly subject to where and how you will be driving the vehicle.

      Myself, I would never do any of what you would call proper off-roading with such roof loads on the car but for my light usage on mainly well maintained woodland and farm tracks it’s ok.

      Good luck.

  11. Avatar photo
    Patrick

    Hi Paul,
    great blog post. I just read an article on another website about roof load.
    If you are interested: https://gentletent.com/en/blog/rooftop-tent-roof-load

    I understand that driving and handling are very important factors for the driver and others on the road.
    But there is still the issue of insurance. That is, if something happens on the road, you have to pay heavy tickets and in addition you have no insurance coverage.

    For me, it’s really hard to decide which way to go.

    Kind regards,
    Patrick

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Yeah I agree. I hope my articles are clear that it’s exceeding the recommendations and done at the owners risk! I think I’ve added that to all blogs regarding roof tents and roof loads. It’s just about sharing my experiences and experiments. What feels ok for me to drive might be a terrifying experience for others so it’s all hopefully being taken with a pinch of salt. I’ve actually seen a lot of people run way heavier setups than I do but I’d not recommend it!

      It’s definitely not a decision to take lightly, pardon the pun 😉

  12. Avatar photo
    Jeff

    I run an 05 Jimmy with a customer engineered roof rack and bolted it into the roof. Cost a bit but won’t come off. I carry a King RTT (57kgs) and golf clubs on top for the past 4yrs on and off-road trips. I have upgraded suspension,with rear airbags, plus upgraded the sway bars which helped to limit the rolling. I run 225 75 r15 wranglers with stiff sidewall. I have 2 siding draws and a 45l fridge in the back as permanent fixtures. I’m travelling around Australia and the car performs like a dream. It’s no land cruiser but it goes everywhere I ask it to. But the weight on the roof does roll with extra fuel on occasions and does affect braking. I put the disc on my rear to replace drums too. Due to the variation in driving conditions across this land, it psys to do dome research and try to get things right as much as possible. Great car for 2. Oh sleeps 2 in comfort on top.
    Jimmy has never been a great car for cornering and weight on top doesn’t help on standard setup on-road or off. My advice is to always have your car under control when cornering as that when it’s at it’s worst.

  13. Avatar photo
    Alex A

    Hey mate,

    Just saying I looove your website. So much advice and inspiration everywhere.. thank you !

    We bought a Jimny in September this year. We are starting to think about the roof tent build.

    Obviously like you say we are tempted by the full galley in order to be flexible but the weight is too much if you put a tent on top..

    First, my GF is wondering if 2 Front runner Bars are enough for the roof tent (with 2 people on top, like 130kg). Are they bending, even slightly ?

    And with about 50kg on the roof, do you need to change suspensions ? Or enhance their height ?

    Thanks again for all the info!

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi Alex, you’re very welcome. I enjoying making the blogs… must write some more soon 🙂

      The two front runner load bar (or other brand with the same strength rating) are perfect for the roof tent. That is what I use. I made the mistake of buying the 3/4 rack when it’s completely pointless if it’s a tent being mounted on it.

      There’s no bending. Wife and I total ~150kg on a bad month haha. That more me than her of course (avoiding a slap).

      Read the lightweight roof tent guide for tips on lowering the 43kg of the front runner roof tent while driving. That’s your main concern. Less is more is certainly appropriate for a Jimny and roof load.

      Stiffer Suspension definitely helps a lot. I did have the roof tent on without upgrading the suspension but it would feel a bit scary over 60mpg. Would definitely recommend reducing speed and driving style accordingly.

      There’s also the option of aiming for a rack to store waterproof boxes with your gear and a side awning for shelter. Then setting up the interior to sleep in if you’re 6ft or less. That’s a lot of fun and way cheaper than buying a tent.

      1. Avatar photo
        Alex A

        Thanks mate. So you’d recommend changing the suspensions even with 50kg max on the roof ? What for, is it a height issue ? Or “strength” ?

        Intersecting thought about interior sleep-in, though I guess it would be a bit less practical to reach your camping equipment (food, etc..)

        When you say scary is it on normal road ? or off road ?

        Do you have an article about indoor configuration ? I wonder how it can work out..

        Cheers

  14. Avatar photo
    Jade

    I got frontrunner 3/4 rack.

    And install two-alluminium boxes. (95l)

    Today. My first time to camping.

    I had a hard time driving today because of the wind.

    I should refer to your thread and measure the weight of the roof.

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      For me over 60kg feels too heavy up there while driving. I barely notice <55kg but I do have stiffer suspension added to the car. As always less is more on the Jimny and I always say to not necessarily listen to what I do 🙂

  15. Avatar photo
    Peter Bryan

    Whilst the roof weight is very important to the handling characteristics and safety, it is not the only consideration. A badly and unevenly loaded roof rack or internal uneven loads can cause more problems, even a with a low roof weight. With only a large wrap around awning on one side of the vehicle, or cheap fuel or water containers mounted on the roof rack side without baffles, also high heavy internal uneven loads all will play a significant part in vehicle handling by shifting its centre of gravity. How many drivers or over-landers weigh the contents and plan the layout, prior to a trip?

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      You’re right, good advice.

      Not always but I try to balance the load in the boot too. Taking into account my weight as I’m often solo. Not that it’s done too precise, just to keep a minds eye on it.

  16. Avatar photo
    Luis GT

    Hi Geordie, hi people,
    This is Luis from Spain. I am waiting for my first Jimny and a little worried about roof weight. Even more when vendors in camper stores keep telling me “there is no weight problem” with tents on a Jimny. This can’t be true, it’s basic Physics.
    My choice is a hardshell RTT (ok that’s on me) and Spanish law makes camping difficult when RTT exceeds the perimeter of the vehicle, so no Skycamp Mini either. It’s getting difficult, isn’t it?
    Ok, that’s what I’ve found on the Internet: Go Fast Campers USA made a Superlite RTT in only 37 kgs, reasonably priced. That’s amazing. Anybody has tried it? Unfortunately it is now discontinued, but apparently it can be found second hand. That’s my hope, because the Autohome Columbus Variant Carbon Fiber (49 kg) cost is prohibitive.
    Link #1: https://gofastcampers.com/products/superlight
    Link #2: https://www.autohome-official.com/en/products/columbus-roof-top-tent/columbus-carbon-fiber/
    They told me at GFC Customer Support there are plans for a Superlite 2.0. Maybe if we push together they’ll get down to work. Let’s show them the demand for such a product.
    E-mail: SUPPORT@gfcengineering.com
    Of course, one way or another in my Jimny roof there will be no awning (what about a simple tarp?), no ladder (fixed on the back door is nicer and safer), no solar panel, etc. Not even stickers up there 😉
    Please be safe.
    Kind,
    L

  17. Avatar photo
    Arturo Ruiz

    Good morning to all from the Dominican Republic. I am on a three month waiting list for my first Jimny. I am purchasing this as a daily driver (my midlife crisis whim is a Jimny as opposed to a Prosche), but I also own a little piece of land on the mountains which will serve as a hub for me to get to camp out with the wife. I’m not a big off-road guy and she will not even consider joining me if it means sleeping on the floor no matter hoy great the tent.

    Which brings me to my question. Can I use the bar system for a combination of the RTT and an awning as well, without fabrication? Or are there ready made products that could help me achieve this setup?

    Love this blog.

    Cheers to all.

  18. Avatar photo
    Shane

    Hi Geordie,
    This post has been absolutely wonderful! It has all of the details needed to replicate this setup.
    My only question is, what is the smallest clearance you have between the roof and the load bar using the standard LASS102 legs? I was hoping to get the load bars with the LASS101 legs to further reduce the gap between the roof and the tent.

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi Shane,

      Glad it helped mate. The clearance of the front runner legs (maybe no.2 I forget) leave just enough room to get hands under to secure the bolts for the roof tent. Any lower and I wouldn’t be able to and I have small hands for a bloke (not Trump small but small all the same). Depending upon how you’re going to mount your tent this will be worth factoring in. I wanted lower profile legs originally that sat almost flush with the roof. This works great if you’re just securing boxes etc up there and don’t need to bolt under the load bar or rack slats.

      You might find a better way though. Good luck!

      1. Avatar photo
        Shane

        I was thinking of also mounting the tent directly to the load bars (with the No. 1 legs), maybe I can do that first and then mount everything as a unit onto the roof of the car? I think the difference is 15mm so I just wanted to check that the bolts wouldn’t bottom out on the roof of the car.

        1. Paul @GeordieJimny
          Geordie Jimny

          It’s possible but you will need 2 strong people as lifting even 40kg above your head stretching over a car isn’t easy. Or some sort of hoist would be better.

          You would fit your rack or load bars in a position suitable for the tent to sit correctly. Then mark where they are with some tape and remove them. Drill holes In the load bars to bolt the tent on then lift into position.

          The distance that load bar feet need to be apart on the bars is slightly different at the front and rear ends of the car. This is still ensure they sit on the inner part of the roof rails/gutter. There’s a slight curve to factor in.

          I used much shorter bolts than the ones you get with the tent when mounting mine through the load bars. You also have to drill through the wind deflector.

          You could use the shorter feet if they fit ok, I’d ask front runner as there might be other reasons why they specify the no.2 feet for the jimny.

          Lastly with the jimny being quite low for mounting a roof tent on you might want extra height anyway. I’m 6ft and with a 50mm lift kit mounting the tent direct to the load bars means I have to slight duck my head to walk under it. With lower feet and no lift it would be too low for a comfortable experience in my opinion. Food for thought.

          Cheers Paul

          1. Avatar photo
            Shane

            I will absolutely make a hoist system so I can take it off and store it attached to the roof of the garage when not in use. My daily drive is too windy and too far to justify lugging the tent around.

            I did read up about the inner and outer gutter sections (thanks to your brilliant documentation!), and will be sure to pay attention to it.

            When you say ‘tent direct to the load bars’, did you still install the aluminium rails in section 3 of this guide? (https://content.frontrunneroutfitters.com/collateral/doc/F_TENT031.pdf)
            Or did you go straight through the base, into the load bar?

            I did message Front Runner about whether I could use the No.1 legs but they simply replied with something like that’s the shortest they’d recommend but I don’t see a good reason why shorter could be worse (maybe bolt size doesn’t work)

            Note: The kit I’m not looking at is actually a Jeep kit (Ignore the pictures): https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/en/za/load-bars/front-runner-load-bar-kit-jeep-cherokee-sport-mk2.html

            Though the parts looks identical to the Jimny’s (aside from the No.1 legs):
            https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/en/za/load-bars/suzuki-jimny-2018-curr-load-bar-kit.html

            I think I’m going to try it, and if it doesn’t work, I’ll have to order the No.2 legs and try again. Will let you know how it turns out. Honestly though, thank you so much for everything, you’ve been an absolute wellspring of information!

          2. Paul @GeordieJimny
            Geordie Jimny

            I left the aluminium rails on the tent but my friend also had the front runner tent and he removed them. Bolting directly through the tent into the load bars to the tent sat completely flush to them.

            Look forward to seeing the finished set up mate! Fire a link over to a photo/video if you get time 🙂

  19. Avatar photo
    Dean

    I own a Jimny 2021 model. After watching Roam: https://roamoverlanding.com/blog/ and his build i went straight to a teardrop trailer: https://vagabondsa.co.za/the-rogue
    It’s been interesting as the camp is now in luxury. I live in Cape Town so a friday is really home after work, put the rogue on the back and head off camping.
    It does have its drawbacks, as the jimny travels at 90-100km at the best of time in the cape winds.
    But for me was a simple way to get into camping with my Jimny with all the gear at once. But still being able to just have my Jimny as my favourite car.
    Thanks for the blog – Dean

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      That’s a great set up. a pal of mine build a trailer for storage and his roof tent. It’s really good being able to set up camp and still drive off on adventures. I would welcome a trailer build one day. Once the problem of where I’d store it when not in use and the funds to buy/build one is solved ha ha.

      Safe travels Dean!

    2. Avatar photo
      Tim

      This is the exact setup I am contemplating right now, as well as the lightweight trailer/tent option. Dean, what is your vehicle setup in terms of suspension and what load (approx) are you carrying in the car and in the Rogue separately? Are you carrying anything on the roof while towing the trailer? How is the handling when driving at highway speeds and are you considering performance upgrades to the Jimmy’s motor?

  20. Avatar photo
    Mario

    Hi Geordie, If I could get your thoughts, I Want to be camping on the beach with my 2022 Jimney so do need to do beach driving to get to my destination. I have big concerns on what storage system to get as I still require a capable off roader. Most full racks are between 20 -27kg and once I add some tracks and gear Im getting upto about 40kg on the roof, other options I have are baskets but still with racks its 20kg. There is a one tray available at only 16kg total its fairly basic but will work. My question is what difference will 5kg more make on the roof when offroading?

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi mate. I’m not really the best person to answer that for you. We’re not allowed to drive on beaches in the Uk (that I’m aware of) and I do almost zero off-roading that would be classed as anything other than gravel lanes.

      All I know is how weight effects on-road and it’s significantly noticeable once I exceed 60kg total load. 40-50kg I forget there’s anything on the roof and the main difference is more wind noise.

      In regards to proper off-roading those figures will drop further. However it’s all personal preference. I lean way towards safety than risk where I can and I see some JIMNY’S happily tackling off-road tracks with a heavy roof load.

      Stiffer suspension helps a great deal though.

      Sorry I can’t give any of the advice you really need. There’s loads of friendly jimny owners on instagram that might answer some DMs

  21. Avatar photo
    Mario

    Thanks Geordie, really enjoyed reading your experiences, Can you let me know what your total weight is including in the cabin. Currently I am getting up to 380kg with about 50kg on the roof. That does include 2 adults and 2 11yr old boys. I might have to lose 10kg just to go camping in Jimney Or Leave the wife behind and solves all my weight issues. Unfortunately still on stock suspension and that wont change for the upcoming season but I will upgrade my tyres to good ATs though.

  22. Avatar photo
    Harry

    Hey mate,

    Currently using a Front Runner rack and Rooftop tent, but switching over to load bars to save weight.

    Wondering if you found it ok with two people sleeping in the tent, with it mounted to two load bars?

  23. Avatar photo
    Harry

    Thanks Paul!

    Great, I’ve got two Front runner load bars on the way. Glad I won’t need a third.

    On another topic, I also have Toyo AT 215/70/15s on my Jimny. What PSI do you run yours on with the extra roof weight?

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      For comfort I stay at 26 psi. For better economy sometimes increase it to around 30. Not really experimented properly with tyre pressures to be honest mate 🙂

      1. Avatar photo
        Harry

        No worries mate!

        I’ve just received my front runner load bars, and I’m about to remove my front runner rack and install them.

        Wondering how you went about mounting your rooftop tent to the load bars. Did you use the Front Runner tent mounting kit, or the quick release kit?

        1. Paul @GeordieJimny
          Geordie Jimny

          I originally used the tent mount kit brackets. I tried the quick release ones and didn’t like them. In the end I drilled holes directly into the load bars to slot the bolt through in order to mount the tent a bit lower on the car. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend doing that though and probably best stick with the tent mount brackets or the plates you get free with the tent.

          1. Avatar photo
            Harry

            Nice thanks for the tip.

            One more question! Did you get a lot of movement with your load bars? I’ve installed mine super tight, but they’re slipping around like crazy! Too much for me to even consider mounting the tent on them just yet.

          2. Paul @GeordieJimny
            Geordie Jimny

            Did you add some sort of paint protection on the feet? That made mine move originally. Had to remove it and it’s got no movement ever since.

  24. Avatar photo
    Kaitlyn

    Hi I have recently purchased a 2022 Suzuki Jimny in Victoria Australia and I am waiting on it to arrive! In the meantime I have been looking into possible options for roof racks for my car. I am planning on using it for camping trips to load up my swag and camping char for example. I don’t plan on doing much off-roading, if any at all. I would only really be loading up my Jimny on the roof racks for camping trips with the swag and chair.

    I recently found out about the Jimny having a 30kg roof capacity and that heavy weight added above adjusts the vehicles centre of gravity which can cause it to tip over. However, I have seen a lot of Jimny’s driving around with roof racks and many things loaded on their roof including a rooftop tent. But the weight of a roof rack alone can be 24-27kg which does not leave a lot of weight until capacity.

    I was wondering if still getting roof racks and putting more than 30kg would be okay without any upgrades to the vehicle? or if this is a risk (especially with warranty issues). Or if roof bars would be a more suitable option which weigh far less (approximately 6kg)?
    Would love to hear your thoughts.

  25. Avatar photo
    Kaitlyn

    Hi I have recently purchased a 2022 Suzuki Jimny in Victoria Australia and I am waiting on it to arrive!
    In the meantime I have been looking into possible options for roof racks for my car. I am planning on using it for camping trips to load up my swag and camping chair for example. I do not plan to do hardly any off roading or at all.
    I recently found out about the Jimny 30kg roof weight capacity. However, I have seen a lot of Jimny’s driving around with roof racks and many things loaded on their roof. But the weight of a roof rack alone can be 24-27kg which does not leave a lot of weight until capacity.
    I was wondering if anyone has had experience with this for camping equipment and if still getting roof racks and putting more than 30kg would be okay? or if this is a risk (especially with warranty issues). I am only really planning on loading up the roof racks for camping trips and not really any other times.

  26. Avatar photo
    Harry

    Hey Paul,

    Back again lol. Quick one to say cheers for this blog. I’ve made a few big changes to my set up, which have definitely been influenced by your experience and advice, and they’ve made a huge difference. Particularly swapping out my Front Runner Slimline Rack for Front Runner Load Bars, and installing a 40mm OME lift. With these changes, the on road and off road driving experience has significantly improved, particularly when carrying the Front Runner Rooftop Tent. So, thanks for all your help! Haven’t looked back since.

    One thing I’ve noticed with the OME lift is a bit of noise at the rear when cornering. Kind of like a “chirp” or “creak” sound. My mechanic ensures me it’s fine, just wanted to see if you experienced anything similar?

    Cheers
    Harry

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi Harry, glad it helped mate. Yeah those changes I think are the most noticeable for this kind of set up.

      I did have a chirp or squeak on the rear of the car at first but it went away after I sprayed some lubricant on the spring spacer if I recall. I don’t think it stopped immediately and might have just gone away without lubricating it. I remember trying that to get rid of it though.

      Happy travels bud.

  27. Avatar photo
    Tim

    Just for information, in Switzerland at least, the official roof load limit for the JB74 Jimny is 50kg. That’s an actual spec listed in the vehicle specifications (where I think they may need to publish it for legal compliance), which isn’t the case here (no roof load limit listed in the vehicle specifications in the owners manual in Australia) and UK as well I believe. I’ve heard no logical explanation why the maximum roof load would be different here for the same vehicle, so go figure. A number have commented that it seems to be a hangover from the Gen 3 which had plastic roof rails. On the insurance front, I checked with my insurer and they said while damage to a roof top tent wouldn’t be covered in an accident, the rest of the vehicle was. So I’d run it by your insurer and see their response.

    For reference, here’s the official JB74 spec from Suzuki Switzerland, look for ‘charge de toit maximale’ , French for ‘Maximum Roof Load’: https://auto.suzuki.ch/…/price…/PoP_Pricing_Jimny.fr.pdf

    Or if you prefer German ‘Maximale Dachlast’: https://auto.suzuki.ch/…/price…/PoP_Pricing_Jimny.de.pdf

  28. Avatar photo
    Alberto Gombáu

    Hello
    We have a 2006 Suzuki Ignis, which is not exactly the same model as yours, and we have the same doubts about the weight it is able to support on the roof, our car has rails to place some bars and Suzuki tells us that supports 35 kg. logically this is not enough to place a roof tent that are around 60 kg. I have seen that you place 3 bars on the roof, and I have a question, well two…
    The first one is, can we fit a 60 kg roof tent in the car?
    The second is, will 3 poles (or even 4) distribute the weight better and allow us to fit it?
    I understand that it is not just a question of weight resistance and that we will have to make adaptations to the suspension and tyres, but when we get to that point we will think about how to cross it ????.

    Thank you very much for all the information you provide.

    Translated with http://www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi, if the official roof load is 30kg (I’ve recently heard 50kg for Jimmy’s being listed) then the roof tent would be too heavy. I used 3 load bars at one point because the bars weren’t strong enough to hold the tent and occupants and were bending slightly. This would still be exceeding the roof load capacity though regardless of the bar strength. Hope that makes sense!

  29. Avatar photo
    Lindsay Mac

    Be aware, here in New Zealand, insurance is not covered for any vehicle exceeding manufacturers specs.
    Suzuki N.Z. specs :- ” Max. roof load :- 30kg ( including own weight of roof rack ). ”
    Insurance companies will find any excuse not to pay out.
    Certified towing capacity :- ” Braked 950kg, Unbraked 500kg, Tongue download 75kg.
    Hope this helps anyone with there set-up, going the trailer version, myself. Then, if I have to, I can leave the trailer, ( secured ), in a Campground while exploring ‘difficult’ country tracks.

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      ???? yeah it’s probably like that in most countries I imagine. Anyone with a full rack and something on it will likely be exceeding the load limit. Never mind what I do 🙂

      There’s some countries quoting 50kg limits, some 40kg some 30kg.

      I hope anything I write on the blog is clear enough to people that it’s definitely a case of don’t do what I do and it’s at your own risk if you want to load the roof.

      Personally I feel confident driving with <60kg total load with the stiffer suspension but your mileage may vary and that’s just a random guys opinion on the internet 😉

  30. Avatar photo
    CatS

    Hey, I’ve read most of your articles, and really appreciate the research, and I’m on the fence about getting a roof rack vs rails, all we want to put on top is a swag or the kayak occasionally, and don’t really do much off-roading, but I can’t help but think that the racks will have more day to day usability for transporting random things. What are your thoughts on this?

    ^ looking at the frontrunner slimline II because it seems to have a kayak mount
    also going to get the OME suspension upgrade and new tyres soon as well.

    1. Paul @GeordieJimny
      Geordie Jimny

      Hi, thanks for stopping by on the blog 🙂

      I guess if you have situations where the rack would be used to transport bulky items then go for it. they’re good gear. I just don’t like the 27kg weight 24/7 on the roof before I even start to think of putting stuff up there.

      Arb do a full rack now that’s lovely for the jimny and lighter weight. Worth look at as I’ve heard good feedback. Same with front runners rack, plenty good feedback.

      The load bars for what I use them for are ideal. Tent and awning. Never anything else 🙂

  31. Avatar photo
    Danny

    I recommend changing the battery too “deadweightindustries” Touge 500 – 650CCA 20Ah (60Ah PbEq) Lightweight Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Battery you’ll save over 17kg https://www.deadweightindustries.co.uk/products/touge-500?variant=32417444135017

    you can also change the lugnuts to 64 Grade Titanium which can save over 40% to the original steel lug nuts which will help with the unsprung weight on the wheels

    oem looking carbon fiber bonnet can save you about 5kg

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Paul @GeordieJimny
Geordie Jimny
Best comment on the blog! Would you like to write an even more detailed guest...
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Daniel
Hi There! First, thank you for this blog. We have followed this for awhile and...
Paul @GeordieJimny
Geordie Jimny
Hi, I hear there’s something coming soon to help do that. Keep an eye on...
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roberto
hello Geordie, did you know how is it possible to lock the tailgate in open...
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Dave
Just got my jimny roof bars from front runner and yes they come with rubber...
Paul @GeordieJimny
Geordie Jimny
Glad you enjoyed it! Cheers Paul
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Joelle
Love reading this, thanks for helping me with my new Jimny! ????