2020 Honda CRV Roof Rack Capacity Options

Question:

I know you all must be fielding this question on repeat right now since Honda has discontinued sale of their OEM roof rail/bar option, but please bear with me: I want to put a respectably-sized cargo box 12-16 cu ft on the roof of my 2020 CRV, which did not come with OEM rails that can no longer be acquired. Looking at the different options you all offer for naked roof kits for a 2020 CRV, I note that the Thule kit is sometimes indicated as having a 110lbs weight capacity rather than the 165lbs indicated by the individual Thule parts and the comparable kits from Yakima or Rhino. For my peace of mind, Id like to know why you all indicate the capacity at 110 for Thule on the CRV video link below. Looking around online, I get the sense that CRVs have had issues in the past with roof attachments or official weight capacities. The manual says 165, but apparently I cant live with this uncertainty. Does this just mean the Yakima/Rhino kits are just a sturdier fit on the CRV? Should I just grab one of those and not worry about it? I appreciate any info you can provide.

asked by: Leland S

Expert Reply:

Certain manufactures give lower capacities to make sure the customers are being safe when using their products. That being said, always go by the lowest rated component. Your 2020 Honda CRV roof is rated for 165 so I would suggest not getting a Thule rack.

I recommend getting the Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars # RRVA137B-2, Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Legs # RRRLKVA, Custom DK Fit Kit # DK284. Rhino Rack rates this system for 165 lbs. I like the looks of this flat black roof box # TH6357B. You could also take a look at theYakima RocketBox Pro 14 Rooftop Cargo Box# Y07192, also one of my favorites.

expert reply by: Adam E