Mounting the Yakima ForkLift Roof Bike Rack to Yakima JetStream Aero Crossbars

Question:

Thanks Evangeline, but the bike rack is an older model forklift that I would like to use on the newer Jetstream bars, or will I have to get the newer forklift model? I would rather get a newer forklift than go with round crossbars.

asked by: Frank C

Expert Reply:

No need for adapters! The clamps on the Yakima ForkLift Roof Mounted Bike Rack # Y02098 can be adjusted to fit round, square, or aero bars.

The Yakima JetStream crossbars # Y00425 are a little large at 3-1/8" wide x 1" tall so it will be a tight fit. They are still within the maximum of 3-7/8" wide or 1-7/8" tall specs though that the ForkLift clamps can fit around. I suggest making sure your clamps are adjusted to the lowest notch. I attached a picture from the instructions to show that adjustment.

expert reply by: Evangeline M

click to enlarge

Frank C.

1/27/2021

Evangeline M.

1/27/2021

In that case, I would recommend upgrading to a new bike rack. The ForkLift was designed in 2008 and roof bike racks have improved since then, especially to make full use of the new aero-style crossbars with T-tracks. If you want another Yakima product, then I highly recommend the Yakima HighSpeed # Y02115 bike rack. It can be used with the separate SmarT-slot kit # Y02122 which will fit into the T-tracks of your JetStream crossbars. This creates a very secure, simple, and low-profile mounting process. The Forklift which I mentioned in my previous answer will also technically fit around the large JetStream bars, but from our experience, it sits at the maximum capacity for the ForkLift clamps. If you're getting a new bike rack for your new bars, I recommend getting a bike rack that was created specifically for the modern Aero-style crossbars design.