Weight Capacity of Roof Rack on a 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe Carrying Two Kayaks

Question:

Is there a recommended weight bearing capacity or limit? We have a2004 Sante Fe Hyundai, would like to be able to put 2 kayaks on it. the manufacturers roof rack that came on the car says 75 # limit. will your crossbars make it stronger, able to bear more wt? Thanks so much for your help

asked by: Lesley B

Expert Reply:

My wife and I just bought a 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe that has the factory rails that run front to back. The limit of those is 75 pounds just like on yours, and I remember thinking, wow, that is not very much.

Adding cross bars will not increase the capacity of the rails even if the cross bars themselves might be able to carry more weight. Even if this is the case, you will still be limited to the 75 pounds.

If you were to add the recommended cross bars, # Y00408, and the Towers, # Y80145, you could then add a kayak carrier. We have the Thule The Stacker - Rooftop Multi-Kayak Carrier, # TH830. But with any carrier installed, you will have to include that weight when you calculate how much you can carry on the rack. This carrier system weighs about 8 pounds. So you will be left with 67 pounds capacity.

I have linked an FAQ on roof racks for you to view.

expert reply by: Michael H