Best Roof Rack For 2021 Mazda CX-5 With Flush Side Rails For Rooftop Tent

Question:

Hi, I have a 2021 Mazda CX-5 and was wondering if you guys carry the Thule WingBar Evo kit for this car. According to them, it fits the Mazdas flush rails, but they're not selling it on their website now. I'm planning to put a rooftop tent on ~100 lb for the lightest ones. Out of the three that I can confirm fit Yakima, Thule, Inno, having some trouble deciding. I like how the Innos are much cheaper, but the bracket mounting to the inside of the rail is slightly concerning – the Thule and Yakima sit right over the rails, which seems more robust. Inno also states a 140 lb limit vs. 165 lb on the others. Not sure where that number comes from and if its lower because of the reason I mentioned..? So many brands specify 165 lb, so I assume its just a conservative number to throw out there for the dynamic load rating. Also, really appreciate your guys' videos. Super informative!

asked by: Dillon H

Expert Reply:

Hey Dillon, thanks for the nice words, they are definitely appreciated, and we can get your 2021 Mazda CX-5 with flush rails set up with a roof rack for a rooftop tent. Starting with your question about Thule, they discontinued that fit kit so I'm not quite sure why they still have it listed. So the best option for your CX-5 is 100 percent the Yakima.

You mentioned Inno, and of course price is always a factor, but honestly I just would not use them on my roof for a rooftop tent. Carrying a bike rack or other accessory? Sure, they'd be fine. But for the exact reason you mentioned - the brackets (and thus, crossbars) are mounted inside the flush rail. An occupied rooftop tent is a lotttttt of weight for that type of set-up. So the Yakima is definitely the best choice, and here's exactly what you'll need to fit your CX-5:

- Yakima JetStream Crossbars # Y00425

- SightLine Towers for Yakima Crossbars - Flush Side Rails # Y64AR

- SightClip Fit Kit # Y39AR

This rack will sit right on top of your flush rails for an absolutely solid base to support your tent. The only other thing you may want to consider are lock cores for added security. They aren't necessary for the rack, but some people like having locks, so I thought I'd give the option. If you want to go that route you'd need part # Y07204.