Recommended Method to Transport 2 Kayaks on 2011 Subaru Outback to Retain Rear Hatch Clearance
Question:
I have factory installed side rails with cross bars. I wish to carry 2 fourteen foot kayaks. I presently use 2 thule crossbars with 2 swingman upright kayak carriers. My problem is that I would like to move the kayaks forward 2 feet so there is no rear overhang of the kayaks. I wish to open the rear hatch of the outback fully and also pull a trailer with two bike racks on the front of the trailer.The factory installed side rails do not allow any flexibility . Is there any crossbar assembly by any manufacturer that could be placed across the roof at the level of the front part of the front door? This would allow the kayaks to be carried forward 2 feet. Any suggestions please
asked by: John G
Expert Reply:
For the most flexibility in placement of two kayaks on the roof of your 2011 Subaru Outback Wagon you could use a foam block type kayak carrier such as Malone # MPG152 directly on the roof itself, bypassing the front crossbar. The front block could be positioned more forward on the roof to still give you a wide front-to-back stance for kayak stability while giving you the ability to shift the kayaks more forward for a bit more room at the back end of the car. I cannot guarantee that you'd be able to shift them a full 2 feet more forward. If you kayaks were 8- or 10-footers you could likely get the rear hatch clearance you want, but with 14-footers this is a tall order.
All such foam block carriers can be seen on the link provided. As long as you do not have a sunroof this is an option. Glass roofs cannot handle the weight of kayaks.
I checked with Yakima, maker of the only aftermarket rack for the 2011 Subaru Outback Wagon that has factory rails and crossbars, and my contact there advised that the front bar of their rack does NOT install forward of the factory bar, so that is not an option.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Malone Deluxe Kayak Carrier with Tie-Downs - Foam Block Style - 18" Long
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- Kayak
- Roof Mount Carrier
- Foam Blocks
- Aero Bars
- Elliptical Bars
- Factory Bars
- Naked Roofs
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- Side Loading
- No Load Assist
- Malone
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