Recommended Rooftop Kayak Carrier Systems for 2013 Chevy Spark  

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Foam block style kayak carriers like the Rightline Gear # RL100K10 are a great option in certain conditions, such as when you're travelling a short distance through town to get to your local pond, but if you intend to transport your kayak at 75-mph on the interstate for hundreds of miles, then a roof rack and different carrier are called for.

The Rightline kayak carrier also works great in cases where a car's roof weight capacity is pretty close to the kayak's weight. Since you cannot exceed a car's roof weight rating, a really lightweight foam block carrier system can let you keep almost all of the roof's capacity available for the kayak's actual weight. This foam block system literally weighs less than 2-lbs, as compared to a typical roof rack that weighs 10- or 12-lbs, or a J-style kayak carrier like the SportRack # SR5513 that weighs about the same. If your kayak's weight is close to the car's limit then foam carriers can sometimes be the best option. Foam carriers also cost a lot less and can be used on more different cars than almost any other type of kayak carrier. You can also position it to avoid your roof-mounted antenna.

You will want to confirm the weight of your kayak and anything that will be stowed away in it while you travel, such as your paddle, life vest, fishing tackle box, cooler, etc. The total combined weight of all items on the roof must remain within the car's capacity. Your owner's manual should indicate how much weight the roof can handle.

If you will be doing many highway miles then for safety and peace of mind you'll be better off with a roof rack and rack-mount type kayak carrier. The most cost-effective roof rack offered for the 2013 Spark that has a bare roof is the square bar system from Inno made of parts # INB117, # INSUT and # INK616. I linked an install video to show you how the rack mounts. On this rack you could use the SportRack J-style carrier # SR5513 that is shown in the linked video.

If you like, you can let me know the length and weight of your kayak and what your travel distances will be and I can work with you to find the best possible option for your budget.

expert reply by: Adam R

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