carbon frames & sidearm roof racks

[Junithanx]

I've read a lot of conflicting information regarding side arm roof racks and carbon frames.

Some people are of the opinion that you should never use a side arm on a carbon frame since it is not built for the lateral forces that would effect it from being attached.

Others say the carbon frame is as rigid as the alloy and it doesn't matter. I'm of this opinion.

What is your opinions of carbon frames with the side arm rack?

I can understand how a clamp that the bike is held up by could cause a lot of forces concentrated in that area which could lead to failure. However, in my case, the bike is held down by straps around the wheel and the side arm is only to keep it up right on the rack. Am I damaging the bike?

(If it matters, the bike is a Cannondale Flash and the rack is a Thule made rack for BMW)

[Junithanx]

Found the sub-forum for bike racks. Sorry mods, move this if you want.