What is the difference between an RCI Horizon and an RCI Ascent roof rack for a 3rd gen Taco?

[DouglasVB]

Does anyone know what the difference is between the Horizon and the Ascent roof racks that RCI makes for 3rd gen Taco double cabs?

https://rcimetalworks.com/brand/rci-offroad/p-rci-taco-05-roofrack-dc-ascent-roof-rack-05-23-tacoma/

https://rcimetalworks.com/brand/rci...-roof-horizon-horizon-roof-rack-05-23-tacoma/

The photos are identical. All of the descriptions are identical except for the weight (the Ascent weighs 7lbs more). The instructions are identical. The prices are different.

They've got a decent sale right now and I think it's time for me to get a roof rack so I was going to order one this weekend but I've got no idea if the extra money is worth it for the heavier roof rack or not.

 

[On the RX]

The primary difference between the ⁠RCI Offroad Horizon and Ascent roof rack lines for the Toyota Tacoma is the material and style of the crossbars used: the Horizon series utilizes slotted steel crossmembers, while the Ascent series upgrades to extruded aluminum T-slot crossbars.

 

[DouglasVB]

The primary difference between the ⁠RCI Offroad Horizon and Ascent roof rack lines for the Toyota Tacoma is the material and style of the crossbars used: the Horizon series utilizes slotted steel crossmembers, while the Ascent series upgrades to extruded aluminum T-slot crossbars.

Thank you!!

On the website both of the descriptions say they use aluminum t slot cross bars so it was a bit confusing. The text is literally a copy paste between the two.

 

[On the RX]

Take that with a grain of salt, I dropped your headline into a Google search

 

[DouglasVB]

Take that with a grain of salt, I dropped your headline into a Google search

Oh okay then

I can't find anyone with actual photos of the two different racks. Or videos. It's all the one rack.

 

[On the RX]

I would call them and let them know that someone got lazy when dropping in the description and find out from the source.

 

[DouglasVB]

I would call them and let them know that someone got lazy when dropping in the description and find out from the source.

I sent them an email this morning but since it's the weekend I probably won't hear back until Monday when the sale probably will be over

In the past I've had good email exchanges with them when I had product support questions. All of my skid plates and sliders are from RCI and they've held up to some significant abuse.

 

[Runnin on E]

"All of my skid plates and sliders are from RCI and they've held up to some significant abuse."

X2

 

[DouglasVB]

For future reference, Marco at RCI sent me this info. I decided to go with the Ascent version. I've worked with aluminum t slot framing for almost 30 years now and I find it to be nice to work with. Also I want to minimize steel on my roof due to where I live (salt air).



Hey there,

Great question! Here’s a quick and simple way to break down the differences between our roof rack options:

Ascent Roof Rack
Best if you want maximum flexibility:

• 360° T-slot crossbars (easy to move and adjust)
• “Drop-in” bar capability for quick setup changes
• All-aluminum construction (lightweight + rust-proof)
• Ideal if you’re frequently changing your gear setup

Horizon Roof Rack
Best if you want simplicity and value:

• Fixed-position steel crossbars (strong and stable)
• More “set it and forget it” design
• Higher rigidity for heavier, constant setups
• More budget-friendly option

Bottom line:

• Go Ascent if you like to change or fine-tune your setup often
• Go Horizon if you want a strong, simple rack you can leave set up full-time

Both options use the same mounting points and share the same overall footprint, so it really comes down to how you plan to use it.

I hope this helps! Let us know if you want help deciding based on your setup!