How to Transport 3 Kayaks with 2018 VW Golf SportWagen
Question:
Hello, I just got two kayaks Sea Ghost 130 and a smaller one and I need to transport them. What recommendations do you have for the crossbars and holders. I am looking for ease of installation, security in transit and what I need to secure safely. An assist lift of some kind would also be very helpful. Thanks
asked by: Bob
Expert Reply:
To transport all 3 of your kayaks with your 2018 VW Golf SportWagen you will need to go with a set of roof rack crossbars and a post/stacking style carrier that mounts to them.
Starting with the roof rack I recommend an Inno Square Bar System that consists of # INB137 for two 54 inch Square Crossbars and # INFR for the Mounting Feet. This will provide you with a durable system that has a 220 pound weight capacity. The mounting feet simply clamp around the factory rails on the roof of your VW and then attach to the crossbars for a simple install.
I have attached a short video demonstration that you can check out as well.
Then for the kayak carrier I recommend the Nautic Stack # RRS520. This carrier will use the included hardware to clamp around the Inno Square Bars for a secure and easy install and it can be used to load up to 4 kayaks side by side. Tie-downs are included for 2 kayaks but for your 3rd you will need to add # RRRBAS-RTD55P-RTD45P for additional cinch straps, bow/stern tie-downs, and anchors.
I have again attached an install video so you can see exactly how the carrier works.
This will allow for a really nice, safe, and sturdy setup for your kayaks as long as you remain under the weight capacity of both the roof rack (220 pounds) and your VW. There should be a roof weight capacity listed in your copy of the owner's manual.
When securing more than 2 kayaks on a roof a stacker system like this is really the only option because of the amount of crossbar space you have to work with. There isn't a carrier within this style that includes any kind of lift assist so to help with loading/unloading I recommend taking a look at the Rightline # RL100660. This will simply hook to the U-shaped door latch on your VW to help with reaching the roof so you don't have to lift the kayaks above your head.
Products Referenced in This Question
Inno Square Crossbars - Steel - Black - 54" Long - Qty 2
- Roof Rack
- Crossbars
- Square Bars
- 54 Inch Bar Space
- 2 Bars
- Overhang
- Black
- Inno
more information >
Inno Feet for Square Crossbars - Raised Side Rails - Black - Qty 4
- Roof Rack
- Feet
- 4 Pack
- Inno
more information >
Rightline Gear Moki Door Step - 400 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- Car Roof Bag
- Roof Basket
- Roof Box
- Roof Bike Racks
- Roof Rack
- Watersport Carriers
- Door Steps
- Rightline Gear
more information >
Rhino-Rack Cam-Buckle Cinch Strap and Anchor Kit
- Accessories and Parts
- Watersport Carriers
- Bow and Stern Anchors
- Bow and Stern Straps
- Cam Buckle Straps
- Rhino Rack
more information >
Rhino-Rack Nautic Stack Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Post Style - Folding - Universal Mount
- Watersport Carriers
- Fishing Kayak
- Kayak
- Roof Mount Carrier
- Post-Style
- Folding
- Euro Bar
- Vortex Bar
- Side Loading
- Clamp On
- No Load Assist
- Rhino Rack
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 46" Long - Qty 2
- Roof Rack
- Crossbars
- Aero Bars
- 46 Inch Bar Space
- 2 Bars
- Overhang
- Black
- Rhino Rack
more information >
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