Roof Rack vs. Welded 2" receiver on back of 5er

I used the Yakima crossbars on the roof. They are high, and the firttime I used it I thought I made a mistake. I quickly found that if I used the metal step I have for the camper I can put the bikes up with no problem.
I’m not sure what the step is called, but it’s the one that the legs fold flat under the platform.