Recommended Roof Rack and Kayak Carriers for 2008 Toyota RAV4

Question:

I have a 2008 RAV4. I want to purchase a Hobie outback and Hobie revolution 11 and carry on top of my car. Below are different dimensions to my rav4 and the kayaks. I think the best thing to carry the two kayaks is To replace the factory crossbars with wider crossbars that extend beyond the edge of the side rails. I think 65 inch crossbars would work but when I search 2008 Rav 4 I do not see any that wide. Rhino Rack has 65 inch crossbars that look similar to smaller crossbars but the description does not say if they fit a 2008 RAV4. Do you have any recommendations? Rack Rav 4 Internal Rack Width: 39 Mirror width: 79 Vehicle Overall Length: 180 Vehicle Overall Width: 73 Outback 2020 Length: 154” Width: 35” X2=70 Fitted Hull Weight: 85lbs X2=170 Fully Rigged Weight: 103lbs Revolution 11 Length: 138” Width: 29” Fitted Hull Weight: 64lbs Fully Rigged Weight: 81lbs Revolution + Outback Width = 64” Revolution + Outback Hull Weight = 149lbs Revolution + Outback Rigged Weight = 184lbs

asked by: Travis G

Expert Reply:

For your 2008 Toyota RAV4, you can use the longer crossbars you referenced. The restriction in most states is that the crossbars can't exceed the side mirrors.

It sounds like you already have a factory roof rack which means you have the raised side rails. My recommendation for your desired roof rack is the Rhino-Rack SX Series Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars - Raised Factory Side Rails - Qty 4 # RRSX100 and the Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 65" Long - Qty 2 # RRVA165B-2. This rack is rated for up to 175 lbs.

I then recommend using the Thule Top Deck Rooftop Kayak Carrier System with Tie Downs # TH881 to secure each kayak and allow side loading. You will simply need to remove the additional rigging weight for carrying the kayaks and then reinstalling at your destination.

expert reply by: Jason S