Roof Box: Yakima CBX XXL Compare & Choose

What’s up, road warriors and weekend explorers? Ever stared at your packed-to-the-brim SUV, suitcases spilling over, gear crammed in every nook, and thought, “Seriously? How are we all fitting in here?” Or maybe you’ve wrestled with a flimsy rooftop bag in the rain, praying your dry bags were actually… dry? Yeah, we’ve all been there. It sucks the fun right out of the “getting there” part of your adventure. What if there was a smarter, tougher, and way more spacious way to haul your stuff? Enter the beast: the Yakima CBX XXL 21.5 Cubic Foot Premium Cargo Box. Let’s dive deep into why this rugged gear hauler might just be your next essential travel buddy.

Unleash Serious Space: The CBX XXL Capacity Revolution

Okay, let’s talk real numbers because size absolutely matters when you’re loading up for that epic road trip, family camping weekend, or ski getaway. 21.5 cubic feet – let that sink in. That’s legitimately massive. Think about it: this isn’t just tossing a couple of duffels up top. This is about fundamentally changing how you pack.

• Gear for the Whole Crew: Yakima says it’s built for gear from up to 5 travelers. That’s no joke. Imagine fitting bulky sleeping bags, multiple tents, camp chairs, coolers (within weight limits, obviously!), backpacks, and all those random extras that seem to multiply when you have kids. Instead of playing Tetris inside the car, everyone gets legroom! No more sacrificing comfort for cargo.
• Winter Sports Powerhouse: Skiers and snowboarders, listen up! This box swallows skis and snowboards up to a whopping 215 centimeters (over 7 feet!) with ease. Forget awkward angles or worrying about bindings scratching each other. Just slide them in. How awesome is it to have your expensive gear protected and freeing up the entire interior?
• Maximized Usable Space: Here’s where Yakima really shines. They brag about “market-leading internal usable space,” and it’s not just marketing fluff. The unobstructed, flattened floor is a game-changer. Unlike some boxes with weird bumps or ridges stealing precious inches, the CBX XXL’s interior is smooth sailing. You can pack efficiently right to the edges, top to bottom. Every single one of those 21.5 cubic feet is genuinely usable. It means more gear, less frustration. Remember that time you tried to fit the bulky tent and the camp kitchen? This box makes it happen.

Fort Knox for Your Gear: Unbeatable CBX XXL Security

Let’s be real for a second. Strapping thousands of dollars worth of gear to the top of your car can feel sketchy. You park at the trailhead or a hotel, and that little voice whispers, “Is my stuff safe?” The CBX XXL tackles those fears head-on with features built for maximum peace of mind.

• SKS Locks: The Core of Security: Right out of the box, you get Yakima’s SKS (Same Key System) locks included. This is huge! These aren’t flimsy afterthoughts; they’re robust, keyed locks. The best part? One key opens everything. Lock the lid closed? Same key. Lock the box itself securely onto your roof rack crossbars? Same key. No juggling multiple keys while you’re fumbling with gear in the dark or the rain. It’s simple, effective security. You can literally see and feel the quality.
• Intuitive Locking Lid Handle: The lid mechanism is genius. That chunky, easy-to-grab handle isn’t just for opening – it’s the heart of the locking system. Slam the lid shut, flip the handle down, and click – it automatically engages the lock points. No separate latches to fiddle with. It’s intuitive, fast, and super secure. You know your gear is locked in tight the moment you close it. How many times have you second-guessed if you actually locked something? Not with this system.
• Rock-Solid Mounting: A secure box is only as good as its attachment to your car. The CBX XXL uses universal mounting hardware designed to clamp firmly onto almost any crossbar system – Yakima StreamLine, factory bars, or aftermarket aerodynamic bars. Plus, the removable torque-limiting knobs are a safety superstar. These knobs physically stop you from over-tightening the clamps (which can damage your crossbars or the box base), while ensuring you get it tight enough for a wobble-free, secure ride. It takes the guesswork and potential damage out of installation. You tighten until the knob slips – that’s it, perfectly secure. No grunting required!

Access Anytime, Any Side: The Dual-Sided Opening Magic

Picture this: You pull into a crowded ski resort parking lot. You’re perfectly parked, but your passenger side is smooshed right up against another car. Your skis? They’re on that side. With a traditional single-side-opening box, you’d be out of luck, forced to awkwardly climb over or worse, ask the other driver to move. Total bummer! The CBX XXL’s dual-sided opening solves this headache brilliantly.

• True Convenience, Any Parking Situation: Whether you’re driver-side or passenger-side to the curb, gear, or people, you can always access the box easily. Need skis from the passenger side? No problem. Loading luggage from the driver side? Easy peasy. It completely eliminates the frustrating “wrong side” scenario. This feature alone saves so much hassle on every single trip. Seriously, once you experience this freedom, you’ll never want to go back.
• Robust Lid Design: Opening a big rooftop box shouldn’t feel like wrestling a bear. The CBX XXL incorporates internal lid stiffeners. What does this mean for you? The lid stays strong and rigid, resisting warping over time (especially important in sun or cold), and it opens and closes smoothly and evenly, even when packed full. No flimsy, flexing lid that’s hard to manage. It just works, reliably, trip after trip.
• Reflective Goodness: Driving at dusk or dawn? The rugged angular design isn’t just for looks; it incorporates reflective elements. This boosts your vehicle’s visibility to other drivers, adding an extra layer of safety when you’re loaded up and heading home after a long day. A little detail that makes a big difference.

Getting It On Your Ride: Effortless CBX XXL Installation

Okay, putting a big box on your roof sounds intimidating, right? Like, is this a two-person job requiring an engineering degree? Relax! Yakima has designed the CBX XXL installation to be surprisingly straightforward, even if you’re doing it solo (though a buddy always helps with lifting!).

• Universal Fit, Zero Fuss: Remember that universal mounting hardware? It truly fits all Yakima StreamLine crossbars, factory crossbars (like those on SUVs and wagons), and most aftermarket aerodynamic crossbars. You don’t need special adapters or Yakima-specific bars (though StreamLine is awesome!). As long as you have solid crossbars, you’re golden. Check out how it compares to fitting other boxes like the Yakima GrandTour 3 or Thule models.
• Torque Limiting Knobs = Peace of Mind: We touched on these earlier, but they deserve another shout-out. These removable knobs are your best friend. Screw them onto the provided wrench, tighten the mounting clamps until the knob slips freely. That’s your signal – perfectly tightened! No under-tightening (risking the box shifting) and critically, no over-tightening (which can crush crossbars or crack the box base). It’s foolproof safety built right in. Install with confidence!
• Optimized for Your Vehicle: Nobody wants their shiny new cargo box crunching into their rear hatch or spoiler when they open it! The CBX XXL features optimized hatch clearance. This means the shape and mounting points are designed to sit further back on your roof rack, giving your rear hatch or liftgate plenty of room to swing open freely on most vehicles. Always double-check your specific vehicle’s clearance, but Yakima’s design minimizes this common headache significantly compared to older or boxier designs.
• Internal Tie-Downs: Secure the Load: Once your big gear is in, you want it to stay put, especially on winding mountain roads. Inside the box, you’ll find integrated interior tie-down points. These reinforced loops are perfect for threading straps or bungees through, securing loose items, ski bags, or snowboard packs so they don’t slide around or bang against the lid. It’s all about keeping your gear protected and quiet during transit.

Built Like a Tank: CBX XXL Rugged Durability

Your rooftop cargo box faces a brutal life: blazing sun, freezing cold, highway-speed wind blasts, rain, snow, road grit, and the occasional low-hanging branch. It needs to be tough. The CBX XXL is built for this abuse.

• Premium Materials: This isn’t cheap plastic. Yakima constructs the CBX XXL shell from rugged Polypropylene (PP) and reinforces critical areas like the lid latch with tough Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). These are the same high-grade, UV-stabilized plastics used in demanding industrial applications. They resist cracking, fading, and warping season after season. That “stealth-like texture” isn’t just cool looking; it helps hide minor scuffs and scratches from everyday use.
• Angular, Rugged Design: Forget boring bubbles. The CBX XXL has a sharp, angular design that looks aggressive and modern. But it’s not just about style; the angles and reinforced lines contribute to overall strength and rigidity. This thing looks and feels substantial, like it means business. It stands out from the crowd (in a good way!) compared to more rounded designs like the older Yakima RocketBox Pro or even the SkyBox.
• Made in the USA Pride: Yakima proudly states this box is Made in the USA. For many buyers, this signifies stricter quality control, better manufacturing standards, and supporting domestic jobs. It often translates to a product built to last. You’re investing in durability.

Style Meets Function: The CBX XXL Aesthetic

Who says utility can’t look cool? The CBX XXL proves you can have both serious function and head-turning style.

• Obsidian Color & Stealth Texture: The deep Obsidian (Black) color paired with that unique stealth-like textured finish gives it a premium, rugged look. It looks sleek on almost any vehicle color, from white SUVs to black trucks. The texture diffuses light, giving it a sophisticated, non-glossy appearance that hides dirt and minor imperfections well. It elevates your vehicle’s profile instead of clashing with it.
• Premium Black Chrome Badging: The subtle black chrome Yakima badging adds a touch of understated class. It’s not flashy, but it signals quality. It’s the finishing touch on a well-designed product.
• Confidence on the Road: Let’s be honest, driving around with a cheap, ill-fitting roof box can feel a bit… meh. Rolling with the rugged, angular, premium-looking CBX XXL? That’s a different story. You know you have the best gear up top, and it shows. It’s a statement that you’re serious about your adventures.

Is the Yakima CBX XXL Your Perfect Match?

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. This box is incredible, but is it the right one for you? Let’s break it down.

• Who It’s Perfect For:
  • Families (seriously, up to 5 people’s gear!).
  • Winter sports enthusiasts needing to haul long skis (215cm!) or multiple snowboards.
  • Campers and overlanders requiring massive, secure, and dry(ish) storage.
  • Road trippers who value easy access (dual-sided opening!) and security (SKS locks!).
  • Anyone with factory or aftermarket crossbars wanting a universal fit.
  • Folks who prioritize durability and a premium look.
• Things to Consider:
  • Size & Weight: At 91 inches long, 38 inches wide, and weighing 65 lbs, this is a big box. You need adequate roof space and strong crossbars. Measure your roof! Lifting it requires care (get help!).
  • Height: The 17-inch height is generous internally but check garage clearance if you park indoors!
  • Water Resistance: Important note! Yakima states it’s “Not Water Resistant” meaning it’s not fully waterproof like a dry bag. It’s weather-resistant. Heavy, driving rain might find a way in over time. Use dry bags or bins inside for truly critical items. Compare this to the sealing on the SkyBox NX if waterproofing is your top priority.
  • Price: Premium features, space, and build quality come at a premium price point. This is an investment.

Yakima CBX XXL 21.5 Key Specs at a Glance:

The Verdict: Is the CBX XXL Worth It?

Honestly? If you need massive, secure, and easily accessible rooftop storage and your vehicle can handle the size, the Yakima CBX XXL is incredibly hard to beat. It solves the core frustrations of road trips and gear hauling: lack of space, security worries, and inconvenient access. The build quality feels top-notch, the features like the dual-sided opening and SKS locks are genuinely useful every single trip, and that 21.5 cubic feet of intelligently designed space is transformative. While the price is an investment and you absolutely need to check size/weight compatibility (and remember it’s weather-resistant, not submarine-proof!), the value in terms of convenience, durability, and sheer hauling power is undeniable. It turns packing from a stressful puzzle into a simple, secure loading process. For serious adventurers and families, this box is legit game-changing. It’s what premium gear hauling looks like.

Your CBX XXL Questions Answered

You’ve got questions? Totally fair enough. Let’s tackle those common ones head-on.

Does it fit on all car roofs?

• Not automatically, no. While the mounting system is universal and fits most factory or aftermarket crossbars, the sheer size of the CBX XXL (91″L x 38″W) means it needs a sufficiently long and wide roof. Compact cars simply won’t have the space. It’s ideal for midsize and large SUVs, wagons, trucks (using a bed rack like the Yakima Adjustable Truck Bed Rack), and minivans. Crucially, your crossbars must be rated to handle the weight – the box itself is 65 lbs, plus your gear (check Yakima’s and your vehicle’s weight limits!). Always measure your roof space and verify crossbar strength before buying. It’s a big box!

Can it be opened from both sides?

• Absolutely, yes! The dual-sided opening is one of the CBX XXL’s standout features. You can open the lid from either the driver’s side or the passenger’s side of your vehicle. This is a massive convenience booster in tight parking spots, crowded areas like ski resorts, or when loading/unloading specific gear stored near one side. No more awkwardly reaching across or walking around the car just to get access. Just unlatch and lift from whichever side is most convenient at that moment. Game-changer!

Is it lockable?

• Worried about leaving your gear up there? Seriously, who hasn’t felt that little twinge of anxiety parking at a trailhead or a busy motel? Totally get it. The CBX XXL tackles that head-on – security is legit one of its superpowers. Forget flimsy locks; Yakima hooks you up with their SKS (Same Key System) locks right out of the box. What’s the big deal? Imagine this: one single key does the heavy lifting. It snaps the lid shut tight, keeping sticky fingers out of your precious cargo, and in the same slick move, it locks the whole dang box onto your roof rack. Nice try, thieves! That chunky beast of a lid handle you grab? Yeah, that is the lock. Slam it shut, flip the handle down – click – you just armored up your stuff. No fumbling for separate keys in the dark or rain. How awesome is that simplicity?
• Think about it: How many times have you second-guessed if you really locked things properly? That feeling sucks. With the CBX XXL, the locking is built right into the action you do every time you close it – flip that handle, and you know it’s secure. The clamps anchoring this 65 lb beast to your crossbars? They’re locked down solid too with that same magical key. Someone trying to walk off with your whole loaded box? Yeah, good luck – it’s bolted on and locked up tight. It transforms that nagging worry into genuine confidence. You get back to your car after a long hike, see that handle firmly locked down, and breathe easy. That peace of mind? Priceless.
• Honestly, it’s a total game-changer. No more stressing about your expensive skis, camping setup, or luggage being vulnerable. The system is intuitive, tough, and designed for real life. Yakima didn’t just slap a lock on; they built security right into how you use the box every single time. Flip, lock, go. Your gear’s fortress is sealed, and the whole unit is anchored like Fort Knox. That means you can actually relax and enjoy the drive, knowing your stuff is seriously buttoned up. How do you feel about that kind of upgrade? Pretty sweet, right? Sleep easy, friend.

Yakima Showdown: CBX XXL vs. SkyBox Skinny vs. GrandTour Lo vs. CBX 16 – Which Roof Box Rules Your Road?

Alright, gearheads and adventure planners, buckle up! Choosing the right Yakima roof box can feel like navigating a maze, especially when killer options like the CBX XXL, SkyBox NX Skinny, GrandTour Lo, and CBX 16 are all vying for your roof real estate. They all promise secure storage, easy access, and Yakima’s trusted quality, but dang, they serve very different masters. Let’s break down this heavyweight bout feature by feature, so you can pick the champion for your specific needs. No fluff, just the real deal on where each one shines (and where it might stumble).

Image	Items	Links
	Yakima CBX XXL 21.5: The ultimate high-capacity rooftop beast for big families and long ski trips, offering massive 21.5 cu ft storage with rugged durability.	Check On Amazon
	Yakima SkyBox NX Skinny 12: A sleek, space-saving rooftop box designed for small cars, keeping crossbars free for bikes or kayaks.	Check On Amazon
	Yakima GrandTour Lo 15: The ultra-low-profile cargo box that slips under garage doors while still fitting 215cm skis in its 15 cu ft interior.	Check On Amazon
	Yakima CBX 16: A tough mid-sized adventurer with 16 cu ft capacity, blending rugged CBX styling with practical storage for 3 travelers.	Check On Amazon

The Space Hog: Yakima CBX XXL 21.5 Cubic Foot Premium Cargo Box

Who It’s For: Big families (think 5 people), hardcore campers needing weeks of gear, winter warriors hauling long skis (up to 215cm!), or anyone whose idea of “packing light” involves multiple coolers and a pop-up gazebo. This is the undisputed king of cargo volume in the Yakima lineup.

The Good Stuff (Advantages):

• Massive Capacity: 21.5 cubic feet is legitimately enormous. We’re talking serious gear hauling – bulky tents, multiple sleeping bags, camp chairs, duffels, you name it. Frees up your entire interior for people and pups. That unobstructed flattened floor means you use every inch.
• Long Gear Master: Need to fit those 215cm skis or multiple snowboards? No sweat. The length and internal height swallow them whole. Perfect for serious skiers/boarders or families with varied equipment.
• Rugged Looks & Build: That angular, “stealth-like” textured finish screams tough. Made from rugged PP with ABS reinforcements, it feels built to withstand years of sun, wind, and road grit. The black chrome badging adds a touch of premium flair. It looks as capable as it is.
• Universal Mounting & Smart Security: Fits most crossbars (Yakima, factory, aero) with those handy torque-limiting knobs ensuring you don’t over-tighten. Security is top-notch with integrated SKS locks – one key locks the lid and locks the box to your rack. Dual-sided opening is a lifesaver in crowded lots.

The Trade-Offs (Disadvantages):

• Size & Weight Beast: At 91″ long, 38″ wide, and weighing 65 lbs, this is a monster. You absolutely need a large SUV, wagon, truck (with a rack like the Yakima Adjustable Bed Rack), or minivan with robust crossbars rated for the weight (box + gear!). Forget compact cars or weak factory bars.
• Garage Clearance Alert: That 17-inch height might kiss your garage door header. Measure twice!
• Water Resistance: Like most boxes, it’s weather-resistant, not fully waterproof. Heavy, driving rain might seep in over time. Use dry bags for critical stuff.
• Price Point: All this space and toughness comes at a premium cost. It’s an investment.

The Space-Saving Specialist: Yakima SkyBox NX Skinny 12 Cubic Ft.

Who It’s For: Couples or small families (geared for up to 3 campers), drivers of smaller vehicles (sedans, hatchbacks, smaller SUVs), or anyone who needs some extra space but still wants to carry bikes, kayaks, or other gear alongside the box on their crossbars. Its narrow profile is its superpower.

The Good Stuff (Advantages):

• Narrow Footprint: At just 26.5 inches wide, it leaves precious space on your crossbars free for other mounts (bike racks, kayak carriers, etc.). This is HUGE if you’re a multi-sport adventurer.
• Lower Vehicle Profile: Looks sleek and aerodynamic on smaller cars. Less likely to feel top-heavy.
• Modern Design & Features: The “NX nano-texture” gives it a clean, contemporary look. It packs all the core Yakima goodness: SKS locks (one key!), dual-sided opening, universal mounting with torque knobs, unobstructed floor, and integrated tie-downs.
• Lighter Weight: Coming in at 43 lbs, it’s significantly easier to lift and maneuver onto the roof than the CBX behemoths.

The Trade-Offs (Disadvantages):

• Limited Capacity: 12 cubic feet is the smallest here. Great for luggage, soft bags, or a couple’s camping gear, but it’ll feel tight for big families or bulky items like large tents or multiple coolers. Manage expectations!
• Shorter Ski Length: Max ski length is 195cm. Fine for most recreational skis, but longer performance skis or boards might be a squeeze or need diagonal placement.
• Not for Bulky Gear: That narrow width restricts what you can put inside. Wide items (big coolers, large plastic bins) simply won’t fit.
• Still Needs Crossbars: Obviously, but its size makes it viable for vehicles with shorter roof lengths or narrower bar spreads.

The Low-Profile Cruiser: Yakima GrandTour Lo 15 Cubic Ft.

Who It’s For: Style-conscious adventurers, anyone with low garage clearance, drivers of vehicles with rear spoilers or hatch sensors, or those wanting a sleeker look without sacrificing too much space. It prioritizes staying low.

The Good Stuff (Advantages):

• Ultra-Low Height: The headline act! At only 10 inches tall, this drastically reduces vertical clearance issues. Fits easily into standard garages and minimizes wind noise/impact on fuel economy compared to taller boxes. Looks incredibly sleek and integrated.
• Solid Capacity: 15 cubic feet is a decent sweet spot – more than the Skinny, less than the XXL. Handles gear for up to 2 travelers comfortably or acts as a significant supplement for a small family. The flattened floor helps maximize it.
• Long Ski Compatibility: Surprisingly handles skis/boards up to 215cm thanks to its length (91 inches), similar to the XXL. Great for skiers prioritizing a low profile.
• Premium Looks & Features: The “Premium High Gloss” finish and “Distinctive automotive badging” give it a classy, upscale vibe. Still gets SKS locks, dual-sided opening, universal mounting, torque knobs, tie-downs, and internal lid stiffeners.

The Trade-Offs (Disadvantages):

• Height Restriction Inside: That 10-inch height is the trade-off. While it fits long skis, bulky or tall items (large tents, tall coolers, some duffels packed full) might not fit vertically or will need careful packing. Forget standing items upright.
• Weight: At 62.5 lbs, it’s still a substantial lift, heavier than the Skinny despite less volume than the XXL, due to its design and likely materials.
• Shipping Limitations: Yakima won’t ship this one to Alaska or Hawaii – gotta find a local dealer there. Bummer for those folks.
• Crossbar Spread Specifics: Requires a minimum spread of 24 inches and max of 39.5 inches. Check your vehicle’s bar spacing fits!

The Rugged Middleweight: Yakima CBX 16 Premium Cargo Box

Who It’s For: Smaller families (up to 3 campers), those who love the aggressive CBX look but don’t need XXL space, or drivers whose vehicles can handle the width (38 inches) but maybe not the full XXL length. It’s the CBX spirit in a more manageable package.

The Good Stuff (Advantages):

• Rugged CBX Aesthetic: Shares the same angular, stealth-textured, tough-as-nails look as the XXL, just scaled down. Black chrome badging included. Looks ready for adventure.
• Solid Mid-Range Capacity: 16 cubic feet hits a practical sweet spot for many – significantly more than the Skinny, less overwhelming than the XXL. Handles a solid camping load or family luggage.
• Solid Feature Set: All the core Yakima pros: SKS locks, dual-sided opening, universal mounting, torque knobs, unobstructed floor, internal lid stiffeners, tie-down points. You’re not missing out on functionality.
• More Manageable Size/Weight: At 83″ long and 57 lbs, it’s easier to handle and fits on a wider range of midsize SUVs and wagons than the XXL, while still offering good width.

The Trade-Offs (Disadvantages):

• Shorter Ski Length: Max ski/board length is 185cm. This rules out many modern adult skis and snowboards comfortably. A major consideration for winter sports folks – double-check your gear length!
• Width Factor: While shorter than the XXL, it’s still 38 inches wide. Ensure your vehicle’s roof is wide enough and that this width doesn’t obstruct your view or feel too bulky.
• Not the Biggest or the Smallest: It occupies a middle ground, which is great for many, but means it doesn’t win the pure space crown (XXL) or the narrow profile crown (Skinny).
• Shipping Limitations: Like the GrandTour Lo, no shipping to Alaska or Hawaii.

Breaking Down the Key Battlegrounds

Capacity & Gear Hauling:

• King: CBX XXL (21.5 cu ft) – Unmatched volume for big loads/long trips.
• Balanced: GrandTour Lo (15 cu ft) & CBX 16 (16 cu ft) – Great for core needs, Lo trades height for length.
• Space-Saver: SkyBox Skinny (12 cu ft) – Ideal for essentials or when bar space is critical.

Ski/Snowboard Fit:

• Long Gear Pros: CBX XXL (215cm) & GrandTour Lo (215cm) – Handle the longest equipment easily.
• Mid-Range: SkyBox Skinny (195cm) – Fits most recreational lengths.
• Most Limited: CBX 16 (185cm) – May force diagonal storage or not fit longer gear.

Vehicle Fit & Practicality:

• Low Garage/Spoiler Friendly: GrandTour Lo (10″H) – The clear winner for height restrictions.
• Narrow Vehicle/Bar Sharing: SkyBox Skinny (26.5″W) – Leaves room for other gear on bars.
• Large SUV/Truck Required: CBX XXL (91″L x 38″W, 65lbs) – Needs serious roof real estate and strong bars.
• Midsize SUV/Wagon Fit: CBX 16 (83″L x 38″W, 57lbs) & GrandTour Lo (91″L x 37″W, 62.5lbs) – Check specific dimensions and bar spreads.

Design & Aesthetics:

• Rugged & Tough: CBX XXL & CBX 16 – Angular, textured, adventure-ready look.
• Sleek & Modern: SkyBox NX Skinny – Clean lines, nano-texture, contemporary vibe.
• Premium & Low-Profile: GrandTour Lo – High-gloss finish, automotive styling, super low.

Security & Core Features: All four models are essentially tied here. SKS Locks (one key!), Dual-Sided Opening, Universal Mounting with Torque Knobs, Unobstructed Flattened Floor, Integrated Tie-Downs, Internal Lid Stiffeners (except Skinny? Specs unclear, but likely), Made in USA. Yakima doesn’t skimp on these fundamentals across its premium lines.

So, Which Yakima Roof Box Should You Choose?

• Choose the CBX XXL 21.5 if: You have a large vehicle, a big family, haul massive amounts of gear or very long skis (215cm), and prioritize maximum space above all else. You’re willing to handle its size/weight and have the roof/crossbars to support it. Ready to see how it stacks up against Thule? Check this comparison.
• Choose the SkyBox NX Skinny 12 if: You drive a smaller car or SUV, need to save crossbar space for bikes/kayaks, only need moderate extra storage (couples/small families), or prioritize a lower weight and sleek look. Your skis are under 195cm.
• Choose the GrandTour Lo 15 if: Garage clearance is non-negotiable, you want the sleekest, lowest-profile look, need to fit long skis (215cm) but don’t require massive volume for bulky items, and have a vehicle that fits its dimensions and bar spread. Compare its profile to others like the SkyBox NX.
• Choose the CBX 16 if: You love the rugged CBX style, need solid capacity (16 cu ft) for a small family or significant gear, have a midsize SUV/wagon that fits its 38-inch width, and your skis/snowboards are under 185cm. It offers the CBX toughness in a more manageable size than the XXL.

Ultimately, there’s no single “best” box – only the best box for your specific vehicle, gear, and adventures. Measure your roof, weigh your gear needs (literally and figuratively!), consider your garage, and pick the Yakima warrior that matches your mission. Happy (and spacious) travels!

Here’s a clear comparison table for the four Yakima roof boxes, focusing on specs and features:

Yakima Roof Box Comparison: CBX XXL vs. SkyBox NX Skinny vs. GrandTour Lo vs. CBX 16

Key Takeaways at a Glance:

1. Need Maximum Space?
   → CBX XXL 21.5 (21.5 cu ft) is undisputed king. Fits 215cm skis + gear for 5+ people.
   Trade-off: Heavy (65 lbs), needs large vehicle.
2. Driving a Smaller Car?
   → SkyBox NX Skinny (26.5″ width) saves crossbar space for bikes/kayaks. Lightest (43 lbs).
   Trade-off: Smallest capacity (12 cu ft), fits only 195cm skis.
3. Garage Height Issues?
   → GrandTour Lo (10″ height) slides under low doors/spoilers. Holds 215cm skis.
   Trade-off: Limited height for bulky items; needs wider crossbar spread (up to 39.5″).
4. Want Rugged & Balanced?
   → CBX 16 offers 16 cu ft in a tough shell. More compact than XXL.
   Trade-off: Shortest max ski length (185 cm); may not fit modern long skis/boards.

All models share core Yakima perks: dual-side access, SKS locks (one key!), universal mounting (with torque knobs), and flat floors. Your choice hinges on vehicle size, garage clearance, ski length, and whether you prioritize volume (XXL), low profile (GrandTour), narrow fit (Skinny), or rugged versatility (CBX 16).

Article Team

Our team is creating outdoor-gear relevant articles with passion. If our articles can help you to find the correct solutions for your questions, we will be happy about that. In the content creation process, we usually collect accurate and useful information online or offline to compile our content in an organized way. Consequently, we can guarantee that you can discover some expected answers to your questions. We appreciate your time on our site.