How To Measure A Roof Rack To Verify If The Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier Will Fit

Question:

Did I buy the correct Thule cross bars to install on 2020 Subaru Forester w factory roof rails? I have Evo Wing 118 which are 47”. Concerned about the requirement for 4-8” overhang for use with Hullavator Pro. Are the crossbars long enough? Thank you

asked by: Linda C

Expert Reply:

To verify if the Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars 47" # TH711220 on your 2020 Subaru Forester will work with the Thule Hullavator Pro # TH898 you will need to take a measurement. As you can see in the photo I attached for you, you will need to measure from one roof rail to the other roof rail. Since you need at least 4" overhang on each side of the crossbar, we can subtract 8" from 47" giving us 39". So if your between-the-rails measurement is 39" or less then you will not have an issue.

If your measurement is more than 39" then you will need a longer crossbar to accommodate the Thule Hullavator Pro. I recommend going with the longest option which is Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack - Aero Crossbars - Raised, Factory Side Rails - Aluminum - 58" Long # MPG216. This has a 165lb weight capacity which meets the 130lb minimum that the Hullavator requires. I have attached demonstration videos for the Malone AirFlow and Hullavator Pro.

expert reply by: Andrew N