Boxster roll bar extender
 

Hi,
I am thinking about buying a roll bar extender for 986. Do they really help if I flip or just cosmetic?
Thanks,
David

Probably does not add significant strength, but absolutely does raise the level and provides more safe space and headroom.

I have done some track days with non-Porsche clubs that like to conduct the old "broomstick test" on open top cars. Essentially, you just lay a broomstick on the likely contact points if the car goes upside down, and the driver's head must be below that line. Perfectly reasonable test, really.

Where many get confused with the Boxster is that they will insist on laying it on the roll bar and front fender, ignoring the windshield frame. That's how they have done it for decades on every other open car, and why we see such comically high roll bars on many vintage race cars.

The Boxster will fail that test with any driver taller than an average third grader. I believe that is what has driven the market for the roll bar extenders. That is, however, not the correct way to conduct this test for a Boxster - the broomstick should be laid on the roll bar and the top of the windshield frame. The windshield frame in a Boxster is designed as a very stout structural element that is meant to serve as roll over protection. It is, essentially, a roll bar.

Approached in this manner, those roll hoops in a Boxster can be made to accommodate most of us with simple seat adjustments. I'm 6'1", and I can get low enough to pass this properly conducted broomstick test even while wearing a helmet.

Kind of a long answer, I know, but understanding that the windshield is also a roll bar may help you with your decision to buy a roll bar extender or not.

+1 for broomstick test. Make sure the roll bar will pass it depending on your height.

If you are worried about being upside down be sure your seatbelts are up to spec.

If they can't hold you tight you have a bigger problem

Thanks everyone. Helpful as always.