Front Runner roof racks are engineered for tough South African safaris yet perform equally well in urban settings, and they look good while doing it.
I recently fitted a Front Runner Slimline II roof rack to my 100-series Land Cruiser. After replacing the tires, the rack was the first major modification I wanted. The Land Cruiser is a capable vehicle, but I missed the utility of a truck bed for hauling lumber, gear, and everything in between. The roof rack restores that flexibility—whether I’m picking up building materials from Home Depot or loading up for a weeklong family camping trip.
I’m lucky to have Front Runner’s U.S. operations nearby in Agoura Hills, where they maintain a well-appointed showroom showcasing their equipment and demonstrating how it all works.
After positive experience with a Front Runner rack on my 1989 Land Cruiser, choosing the Slimline II for the 100-series was an obvious decision. Here’s why the system stands out.
South African Heritage
Front Runner Outfitters began in South Africa, where the harsh conditions of the bush provided a relentless testing ground. If their rack can endure trips through Kruger Park, it will stand up to destinations like Moab or the Rubicon with ease.
Because safari and overland travel are part of the company’s DNA, each product is developed to meet the needs of adventurers who spend months on the road or simply head out for weekend outings. Durability, modularity, and practical design are central to their approach.
From their U.S. hub they ship the majority of products bound for North America and staff knowledgeable enthusiasts who can advise on outfitting vehicles. Many on the team are active overlanders, and visiting their facility often means seeing a variety of rigs in the parking lot—useful inspiration when planning your own setup.
Slimline II Roof Rack
The Slimline II roof rack is the backbone of Front Runner’s vehicle system. It converts cars, trucks, and SUVs into versatile adventure platforms capable of carrying gear for a wide range of activities.
Constructed from T6 aluminum with a black epoxy powder coat and 3CR12 stainless steel components, the Slimline II provides an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. Those materials resist corrosion and water exposure, making the rack durable for long-term outdoor use.
Available for more than 50 vehicle applications and compatible with over 200 accessories, the Slimline II is highly adaptable. It can evolve as your interests change—from rooftop tents and storage boxes to mounts for boards, kayaks, or bikes.
On my 1989 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62, the Slimline II replaced a pair of Yakima crossbars that limited capacity. I needed a stronger platform to carry a rooftop tent; the Slimline II handled that requirement and its quick-release latches made installing and removing the tent straightforward.
Installing the rack on my 100-series was straightforward, aided by clear instructions and helpful video guidance. The process went smoothly and my son helped with the initial layout and assembly. Removing the factory rack was simple—fortunately there was no rust on my California vehicle and the factory bolts came out cleanly.
A welcome bonus: the vehicle with the Slimline II installed still fits in my garage. That makes maintenance and working on the front end easy, even with another classic car sharing the space.
More Than 55 Accessories
Front Runner offers a wide selection of bolt-on accessories, and the system’s modular design also allows creative custom solutions. The rack’s t-slots accept standard 8mm bolts and let you position accessories virtually anywhere along the platform for a truly configurable setup.
One of the first accessories I added was Front Runner’s surf and paddleboard carriers. They bolt to the rack using the t-slots and provide secure, adjustable mounts for boards and similar gear. The versatility of the mounting system makes it easy to attach a broad range of storage and transport options.
I also use Front Runner eye-rings and Scratchit tie-downs to secure loads. These accessories make tying down cargo quick and reliable, and shorter tie-downs are handy for smaller items.
If specific fasteners are unavailable through Front Runner, sourcing compatible bolts from other reputable suppliers is an option. There are also aftermarket knobs and tie-down options that work well with the Slimline II and other Front Runner accessories, allowing you to expand capabilities while maintaining a secure setup.
Over time I plan to add camping, overland, and kayaking gear to my accessory collection. The Slimline II’s modular platform makes incremental upgrades easy and keeps options open as my needs evolve.
Follow the 100-series build and updates on the project page and on Instagram to see how the rack and accessories integrate into real-world use.
