Choosing the Right System
Fabbri Roof Bars Buying Guide
Affordable, Vehicle-Specific Roof bars for Cars and Vans
Fabbri roof bars offer a practical, cost-effective solution for transporting everything from luggage and bikes to ladders and work equipment. Designed and manufactured in Italy, Fabbri systems are built with vehicle-specific fitting kits, ensuring a secure and reliable fit for a wide range of cars and vans.
Whether you're planning a road trip or need a dependable setup for daily trade use, this guide will help you choose the right system.
Fabbri Roof Bar Types Explained
Fabbri offers a focused but versatile range covering both cars and vans.
Fabbri Viva Aluminium
Best for: everyday driving, accessories, road trips
- Available in black or silver
- Aerodynamic design (reduced wind noise)
- T-track compatibility for accessories like bike racks & kayak racks
- Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
Fabbri Viva Steel
Best for: occasional use and good value
- Available in black only
- Durable and robust
- Hard-wearing finish
- Ideal for occasional heavy loads
- Budget-friendly
Fabbri Van Aluminium
Best for: premium corrosion-resistant bars
- Available in silver only
- Available in multi-bar configurations (2–5 bars)
- Built for regular commercial use
- Corrosion-resistant for long-term use
- Easier handling during installation
- Standard t-track slot for easy install accessories
Fabbri Van Steel
Best for: our best budget buy
- Available in black only
- Available in multi-bar configurations (2–5 bars)
- High load bearing capacity (up to 100kg)
- Built for daily trade use
- Ideal for ladders, pipes, and bulky equipment
The History of Fabbri
Who Are Fabbri?
Founded in 1962 in Brescia, Italy. Fabbri began as a manufacturer of motor vehicle accessories before turning to specialise in car travel solutions during the late 1960s. Through the 1970s, iconic innovations in roof bars, van rack systems and ski racks helped establish Fabbri as a trusted name across Europe, laying the foundations for today’s modern adaptions of roof bars, bike racks and car travel accessories that we offer today.
Designed for Fixed Point and Plain Roof Types
Fabbri roof bars are primarily designed for vehicles without traditional raised or flush rails or those with existing fixed points for installation.
Fixed Point Roofs
Fixed point roofs have pre-installed mounting points hidden under covers or trims. Fabbri systems:
- Attach directly to these points
- Provide a secure, vehicle-specific fit
- Are common on modern hatchbacks and SUVs
Plain Roofs
Vehicles with plain roofs (no visible rails or clear installation points) rely on a clamping system:
- Foot packs attach securely to the door opening
- Brackets specifically shaped for your vehicle
- Rubber lined brackets to protect roof paintwork
Understanding the Package
Before choosing your Fabbri system, it’s important to know what’s included.
The Bars
The load-carrying crossbars that sit across your roof.
The Foot Packs
These connect the bars to your vehicle and are designed for specific roof types.
The Fitting Kits
Fitting kits ensure compatibility with your vehicle and provide correct positioning and safety. Provide a secure, stable fit and include protective contact points.
Tip: Always check your vehicle’s make, model, and year before buying.
Choosing the right roof bars for bikes or roof boxes comes down to load capacity, stability, and compatibility with your accessories.
1. Fabbri Viva Aluminium Bars More aerodynamic and more ideal for bike racks and other sporting accessories due to the convenient t-track slot.
2. Fabbri Viva Steel Bars: A great low-cost option for carrying a roof box or accessories with u-clamp fitments.
Quick Tip: Always pair your bars with accessories that match both the bar rating and your vehicle's roof limit as exceeding either can compromise safety.
Yes, any roof bars will slightly affect driving dynamics, but material and design make a difference.
1. Fuel Economy: More streamlined bars (like aluminium models) create less drag, minimising additional fuel consumption. Bulkier bars or heavy loads can have a slightly larger impact.
2. Noise: Aluminium bars are usually quieter thanks to better aerodynamics. Steel bars may produce slightly more wind noise, particularly with accessories fitted.
Practical Tips: Remove bars when not in use to improve fuel economy and reduce noise and consider aerodynamic crossbars or fairings if you frequently drive at higher speeds with loaded bars.
Top Add-Ons & Extras
Fabbri Spare Parts & Accessories
Expand Your Road Travel Setup
Roof Bike Racks
The Bici 3000 aluminium roof-mounted carrier is a lightweight and secure way to transport bikes on your roof bars.
Rear Car Bike Racks
Compact and practical, rear car racks are perfect for family trips and weekend cycling.
Rear SUV Bike Racks
Rear-mounted options like the Bici OK SUV MTB carrier provide easy access and eliminate the need for lifting bikes onto the roof.
Rear Van Bike Racks
Van-specific carriers, including e-bike compatible options with extended wheel trays, are ideal for heavier bikes.
Rear Campervan Bike Racks
Specialist racks designed for vehicles like the Renault Master and the Peugeot Boxer offer a tailored, secure fit.
Lock and Key Upgrade
Upgrade your security with the Fabbri lock and key kit, helping protect your roof bars and accessories from theft.
T-Track Adaptors
T-track adaptors allow you to mount compatible accessories directly into aluminium bar channels for a cleaner, more secure fit.
Load Stops for Vans
Load stops are essential for keeping ladders and long items stable during transit, especially useful for trade vehicles.
Loading Roller Bar
A rear loading roller makes it much easier to slide heavy items like ladders onto your van roof safely and efficiently.
Why Choose Fabbri Roof Bars
Over Other Leading Brands?
Fabbri roof bars offer an excellent balance of price, durability, and practicality compared to other premium brands, focusing on:
- Straightforward installation
- Strong, reliable construction
- Cost-effective solutions for both cars and vans
Final Considerations Before Buying
Before choosing Fabbri roof bars, keep the following in mind:
- Vehicle Compatibility: always match your exact make, model, and year
- Roof Type: fixed points vs plain roofs
- Load Capacity: check both bar limits and your vehicle roof rating
- Usage: occasional leisure vs daily commercial use
- Accessories: consider future add-ons like bike racks or ski carriers
Taking these into account will ensure you get a setup that’s safe, secure, and suited to your needs. If you have any questions feel free to Contact Us and one of our experts will be happy to help.
