Sorry if this is obvious but I did do a search and I didn't get a definitive answer...

Is there NO roof transport system (either OEM or aftermarket) for a 997.1 Targa?

If I can avoid it, I'd like to stay away from the rear hitch option.

Thanks for your help in advance!

 

No there is not. The roof rails on the Targa don't have the structural rigidity nor interface for a roof rack system. Hitch mount is the only option.

 

The 996 Targa did have a factory roof rack available. I know, I helped install one on my friend's car. She wanted to buy a 997 Targa, but a roof rack for her bicycles was a non-negotiable item. Although the roof system seems (to me, at least) to be identical between the 996 and 997 generations, there was a 'mounting notch' (don't know what else to call it) on the 996 that was omitted from the 997, and the racks don't work. I'm not aware of any aftermarket rack that was ever made for the 996 Targa, so when the factory rack didn't work for the 997 that was the end of the game.

She got a GTS hardtop instead. Great car, AND it mounts a roof rack.

DMoore
'11 GTS
'10 Panamera 4S