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PrinSu Vs Front Runner Roof Rack

Discussion in '2nd Gen. Tacomas (2005-2015)' started by desertjunkie760, Sep 12, 2016.

  1. Sep 12, 2016 at 12:58 PM
    #1
    desertjunkie760

    desertjunkie760 [OP] @DesertJunkie760 (IG)

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    I am looking at purchasing a roof rack for the Taco, and I see two awesome products. PrinSu Design makes what appears to be an awesome rack for a really good price yet I have seen nothing but great reviews from the Front Runner Slimline racks. The Front Runner was a recommendation from another Tacoma owner, but what are the pros/cons from the two products?

    Honestly, I like the look of the PrinSu and I like the price a LOT better. I don't know if I can justify an $800 roof rack if I can get something solid for a little over half. Why is the Front Runner so expensive comparibly? Any input is appreciated.

    PrinSu (I'm fan girling over this truck)
    liveC9BW9Z.jpg

    c6ecc3b3c73b669cb34611565317fcc5.jpg
    Front Runner
    12713231845_246be12d81_z.jpg

    CreditGabeRatliff4.jpg
     
  2. Sep 12, 2016 at 6:31 PM
    #2
    BigD91

    BigD91 Well-Known Member

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    I'm in the same boat. Really like the look of the Prinsu but seems like there are a lot more options for the front runner with adding accessories.
     
  3. Sep 12, 2016 at 8:10 PM
    #3
    IamJorgeEdward

    IamJorgeEdward Well-Known Member

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  4. Sep 12, 2016 at 8:13 PM
    #4
    BigD91

    BigD91 Well-Known Member

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    Just pulled the trigger on the prinsu so ill let you know how it is once it comes in!
     
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  5. Sep 12, 2016 at 8:24 PM
    #5
    GHOST SHIP

    GHOST SHIP hates you.

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    I've seen both in person on different trucks. IMO, they are basically the same as far as quality goes, but just two different designs. Adjustable crossbars and t-slot mounting options offer practically limitless options for how you store your gear on either rack. There is a thread on here for Prinsu that shows you how to DIY some mounts for most accessories that members have mounted. If you're creative enough, you can come up with your own too. The standard frontrunner accessories are well thought out, but are equally pricey as their racks so you should factor that into your decision. And really ask yourself if you're actually going to buy all those accessories. Some of them you might not have any need for or your particular setup might call for something else entirely. I really like how the Prinsu follows the lines of the roof of the truck and the included wind fairing is a plus. Some people prefer the flat look of frontrunner. For me, it's Prinsu all the way, but it's your truck- build it how you want and don't look back.
     
    Last edited: Sep 12, 2016
  6. Sep 13, 2016 at 4:17 PM
    #6
    desertjunkie760

    desertjunkie760 [OP] @DesertJunkie760 (IG)

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    Thanks for the insight! For the price, I'd rather go with the look of the PrinSu. Especially if the accessories are equally as pricey as the rack. I just need storage room for trips. Nothing specific in mind yet.

    The cosmetics are a plus too.
     
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  7. Sep 13, 2016 at 4:26 PM
    #7
    vicali

    vicali Touch my camera through the fence

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    I think either are going to be good options, it's like arguing Yakama vs Thule..

    I love our Prinsu - price and shipping it to Canada were factors for me.
     
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  8. Sep 18, 2016 at 9:05 AM
    #8
    RNJNKE

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    Following.
    Same boat here!
     
  9. Sep 18, 2016 at 9:10 AM
    #9
    Acerwin

    Acerwin The unNORM NORM

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    Can't go wrong with a prinsu. I actually have one on the way. Anyways I'm a big supporter of the Tacomaworld family so if I can buy something that a Tacomaworld member makes and it's a great product then that's what I buy.
     
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  10. Sep 18, 2016 at 10:05 AM
    #10
    ramonortiz55

    ramonortiz55 Not A Well-Known Member

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    its just a matter of what look you want -

    Front runner takes a lead because of its modularity, but yes they are a pretty penny. Its worth it to people that love the accessories options.

    Prinsu is a slick design and you can always find ways to fit items without the need for accessories.

    Bajarack isn't much more expensive than Prinsu, it is clean and has different layouts for the roofrack, but their accessories are also a pretty penny.

    Gobi is the most expensive, but they are always having sales if you like their design, then its worth being patient.
     
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  11. Sep 18, 2016 at 10:07 AM
    #11
    ramonortiz55

    ramonortiz55 Not A Well-Known Member

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    My input above isn't partial because of the front runner GB im hosting.

    I personally am a Bajarack fan, I think it looks better on the Tacomas and 4runners, but to each their own.
     
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  12. Sep 18, 2016 at 10:11 AM
    #12
    SixthSnail

    SixthSnail I have no idea what I'm doing

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    Most of the FrontRunner accessories can be modded to work on Prinsu if you're creative.

    I had Prinsu on my Tacoma, I have FrontRunner on my 4Runner. I think that prinsu makes awesome racks but like the flat style on 4runners. Only real difference I've noticed that really affected my happiness in a daily driver is the wind noise from FrontRunner is significantly less than that from Prinsu.


    In my opinion, Prinsu looks better on Tacomas and FrontRunner looks better on 4runners.

     
  13. Sep 18, 2016 at 10:12 AM
    #13
    ramonortiz55

    ramonortiz55 Not A Well-Known Member

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    was waiting for you to chime in :)
     
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  14. Sep 18, 2016 at 10:40 AM
    #14
    RNJNKE

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    Thanks for the insight. Your last statement... Wierd, you would think it is the opposite being that is has the wind panel on the front.

    Since you have the experience and knowledge of both racks, the Prinsu site doesn't really show the details of the rails like the FR sight, but it doesn't mention that they have T-nut slots. So in your opinion, how different is the "Accessoribility" of the Prinsu vs. FR? Can the FR accessories be used on the Prinsu or do they need fab'd?

    Any chance on a top view pic of the Prinsu rack to see the details of the rails?
     
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  15. Sep 18, 2016 at 10:53 AM
    #15
    slolane

    slolane Well-Known Member

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  16. Sep 18, 2016 at 3:00 PM
    #16
    SixthSnail

    SixthSnail I have no idea what I'm doing

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    I don't have any more pics of my Prinsu really. I sold the truck. It has t slots, but the bar must be removed in order to put nuts in it. Front runners t slots have spaces to slide nuts in.

    Obviously FrontRunner has more customizability with their accessories, but Prinsu is nice and FrontRunner is pricey.
     
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  17. Sep 18, 2016 at 6:00 PM
    #17
    RNJNKE

    RNJNKE Pounding Trails

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    What was the turn around time for your rack order?
     
  18. Sep 18, 2016 at 6:07 PM
    #18
    Acerwin

    Acerwin The unNORM NORM

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  19. Sep 18, 2016 at 6:20 PM
    #19
    Mr.PowerTrays

    Mr.PowerTrays Well-Known Member Vendor

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    my favorite front runner pic, courtesy of @DefconBrix
    IMG_4417.jpg
     
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  20. Sep 20, 2016 at 9:18 PM
    #20
    CaptainReverso

    CaptainReverso Well-Known Member

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    I got a prinsu, and love it. Wouldn't go with any other rack. What you can add on this thing it limitless

    IMG_20160920_183027355_HDR.jpg
     

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