Looking backward isn't something they do much of
at Saris. Since their inception in the early '90s, their focus has always been on the
future. Rather than doing things based on how they're being done, Saris always operated
according to how they should be done.
When they were getting started, roof racks were
complicated (read: time consuming) and utilitarian (read: ugly). But seeing the direction
outdoor gear was headed (simpler, sleeker, stronger), they set out to create a load bar
that met those same standards. Thanks to an aerodynamic (and some even say sexy?) design,
coupled with simple operation and killer accessories, their roof rack system has been
heartily welcomed by folks like you. People who never quite bought into the clunky,
faux-cop-car look of their competitors' racks.
With Saris roof racks nailed, they then took a hard look
at what used to be the lowly hitch rack. There didn't use to be a good way to carry bikes
on a SUV. With the growing popularity of this type of vehicle, cyclists were bound to miss
out on moving their bikes. Opting once again for a clean-slate approach, Saris began work
on what would eventually become the much-ballyhooed B.A.T. rack. By letting simplicity,
strength and style drive every aspect of the development process, another winner was born.
Their innovative approach continued in 1997 when they
unveiled their biggest eye-opener yet: the Bones trunk
rack. In addition to not looking like any trunk rack that's come before it, they're
proud to say that it doesn't act like any of them either. Designed with elegant common
sense, Bones stands as a testament to the age-old truth that the simplest solution is
usually the best solution.
In a nutshell, that's the history of Saris. Of course
they like to think that it's nothing compared to their future. People are realizing that
with today's sophisticated vehicles and outdoor gear, it only makes sense to choose a rack
that complements them. With that in mind, Saris always thought of racks as highly
functional art -- a little something for those who never felt comfortable running with the
paint-by-numbers crowd.
