What High-Capacity Kayak Carrier Fits Yakima HD Crossbars?

Question:

Do you have a recommendation for a kayak rack that works with the Yakima HD bars and will support a 95 lb kayak comfortably? The yakima jaylow rack is unfortunately limited to 80 lb kayaks.

asked by: Darcy B

Expert Reply:

You are definitely correct that the Yakima JayLow # Y04073 has a weight capacity of 80 pounds.

For your 95-pound kayak, we need to pull out the heavy artillery. For a great kayak carrier that can mount to Yakima HD Crossbars like the # Y01158, I recommend the Yakima BigCatch # Y04091. I confirmed with my tech at Yakima that the clamps on this carrier definitely fit the HD crossbars. The BigCatch comes with a massive 150-pound weight capacity. Since the carrier is a saddle-style design, you will be able to customize the spread of the cradles to get the fitment of your kayak just right. Another benefit is that the BigCatch comes with 2 heavy duty load straps and 2 bow/stern ties to secure a kayak to the saddles. It is important that the BigCatch requires a crossbar spread of 27 inches.

If you need a complete setup for a Yakima HD roof rack, feel free to respond to this answer with the year/make/model of your vehicle and I will be happy to provide the parts you need.

expert reply by: Bob C