How Far Above Crossbars is Yakima ShowDown on 2020 Subaru Outback

Question:

After reviewing everything I can see the Hullavator Pro will not work for me. Mainly, it will not clear my garage at 20” high. It looks like I may have only two options left: 1 The Yakima ShowDown Kayak or SUP Carrier and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Side Loading - Clamp On Y04081 or 2 The Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier and TelosXL Load Assist w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Side Loading - MPG114MD-351XL Before I have you do too much research can you please find out exactly how high the Yakima system will sit above the cross rails of my Subaru Outback. If this system can’t clear my garage opening then I guess I will have to go with the Malone system. I noticed the Yakima Showdown system folds flat unlike the Thule Hullavator’s J racks sit upright. Can you please let me know exactly how high the entire Yakima system will sit above the cross rails of my Outback Touring XT when it is folded flat? I would like to know what all I would need to install everything. Also, will the TelosXL Load Assist easily clear the sides of my Outback Touring XT when using their folding kayak carrier? Sounds like it is designed for any vehicle. I’m not sure how close to the edge of my cross rails I will be able to mount the Downloader folding Kayak carriers. I was wondering if you could check to see if the Malone system would work just fine with my new car. Unless you have any other suggestions for me…I’m thinking I will have to choose one of the options I listed above. Thanks again for all your help.

asked by: Linda S

Expert Reply:

I reached out to Yakima and they told me that the Yakima ShowDown Kayak or SUP Carrier and Lift Assist with Tie-Downs # Y04081 will be just 9 inches above the roof rack on your 2020 Subaru Outback Touring. If you take a look at the accompanying photo you can see that demonstrated. You will not need anything else to install the ShowDown on your Outback, though you can use Lock Cores # Y07202 to lock it.

The Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier and TelosXL Load Assist with Tie-Downs # MPG114MD-351XL will also work, but the ShowDown is going to be a better option because it will be easier to get your kayak on your roof with it than with the Malone system.

I have added a link to a video review for you to check out as well of the Yakima ShowDown Kayak or SUP Carrier # Y04081.

expert reply by: Kyle S