How to Transport 3 Kayaks with 2018 VW Golf SportWagen

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Question:

Hello, I just got two kayaks Sea Ghost 130 and a smaller one and I need to transport them. What recommendations do you have for the crossbars and holders. I am looking for ease of installation, security in transit and what I need to secure safely. An assist lift of some kind would also be very helpful. Thanks

asked by: Bob

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Expert Reply:

To transport all 3 of your kayaks with your 2018 VW Golf SportWagen you will need to go with a set of roof rack crossbars and a post/stacking style carrier that mounts to them.

Starting with the roof rack I recommend an Inno Square Bar System that consists of # INB137 for two 54 inch Square Crossbars and # INFR for the Mounting Feet. This will provide you with a durable system that has a 220 pound weight capacity. The mounting feet simply clamp around the factory rails on the roof of your VW and then attach to the crossbars for a simple install.

I have attached a short video demonstration that you can check out as well.

Then for the kayak carrier I recommend the Nautic Stack # RRS520. This carrier will use the included hardware to clamp around the Inno Square Bars for a secure and easy install and it can be used to load up to 4 kayaks side by side. Tie-downs are included for 2 kayaks but for your 3rd you will need to add # RRRBAS-RTD55P-RTD45P for additional cinch straps, bow/stern tie-downs, and anchors.

I have again attached an install video so you can see exactly how the carrier works.

This will allow for a really nice, safe, and sturdy setup for your kayaks as long as you remain under the weight capacity of both the roof rack (220 pounds) and your VW. There should be a roof weight capacity listed in your copy of the owner's manual.

When securing more than 2 kayaks on a roof a stacker system like this is really the only option because of the amount of crossbar space you have to work with. There isn't a carrier within this style that includes any kind of lift assist so to help with loading/unloading I recommend taking a look at the Rightline # RL100660. This will simply hook to the U-shaped door latch on your VW to help with reaching the roof so you don't have to lift the kayaks above your head.

expert reply by: Chris R

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Answer 1

That is a good looking vehicle! I checked with Inno and I am happy to report that foot pack #INFR will fit the raised side rails on your 2011 GMC Acadia. There is also a silver set if you prefer, #INFR-6. For the crossbars that will fit the feet and…

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Answer 2

You can use your old Thule square crossbars on your 2021 Toyota 4Runner (assuming they are wide enough), and what you can use are Inno roof rack feet because Inno square crossbars are the same size as the Thule, so what you will need is the…

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Answer 3

I can't personally see anything wrong with doing that, however the only thing I can think of that you'd need to be aware of is the total weight being loaded. As long as your bikes are not exceeding the maximum weight capacity of your…

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Answer 4

The Malone Universal Crossbar System #MPG201 is a more economical choice but it still does a good job. The design and quality of Thule's system is why they have such a large difference in price. Whether you go with the Thule Crossroads system…

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Answer 5

For the lowest cost roof rack option that will fit both your 2005 Pontiac Montana and 2010 Subaru Forester, both with side rails, I recommend using Inno feet #INFR with 50 inch bars #INB127. This system will be fast and easy to install or remove and…

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Answer 6

For a square bar roof rack for your 2010 HHR with raised roof side rails we do have options from Thule and Inno which use either 42-inch or 43-inch bars. These can be seen on the linked page along with all other rack brands and rack types. For a cost…

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Answer 7

Aside from a slight change in the appearance of the crossbar (the WingBar Evo has some boxed edges as opposed to the completely smooth front of the AeroBlade) the biggest differences are the rubber strip on top of the crossbar and the weight…

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Answer 8

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 9

For a roof rack to be compatible on your 2020 Jeep Wrangler with Sky One-Touch Power Top, it can't be mounted on the top of the roof and it needs to be high enough for the folding roof to clear. What you need are tall gutter-mounted roof racks.…

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Answer 10

I'll start off with the ski rack for your 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo since that is fairly simple. I recommend the Rhino-Rack Ski and Snowboard Carrier #RR574. This is capable of holding 4 pairs of skis, has an aluminum construction for…

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Answer 11

Yes, I have listed for your below the roof rack systems from Rhino-Rack, Thule, and Yakima that will fit the RetraxPRO XR Hard Tonneau Covers like part #RTT-80243 for your 2019 Ram 1500. Rhino-Rack Vortex Crossbar System part #RRVA180B-RRRLT600…

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Answer 12

Thanks for reaching out to verify, Frank! Yes, those parts (listed below) will fit great together and on your 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour with the naked roof. Inno Roof Rack - Aero Crossbars #INXB130-138 - Through Feet #INXS250 - Fit Kit #INK587 The…

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How to Transport 3 Kayaks with 2018 VW Golf SportWagen

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