Carrying Kayaks On A 2026 Nissan Rogue

Question:

2016 Nissan Rogue SV has factory installed roof rack and cross bars. Would like to find an assisted way to get 2 kayaks onto the roof. I do have Kayak rack but difficulty getting Kayaks lifted up. Open to suggestions.

asked by: Judy N

Helpful Expert Reply:

Anytime you add a roof rack or roof rack accessory to your vehicle, you reduce the weight that you can carry. The weight limit on your 2016 Nissan Rogue is 100lbs. This means the weight of your roof rack, roof rack accessories, and the items you are carrying on the roof, when totaled, cannot weigh more than 100lbs. You will not be able to carry two kayaks with a load assisted kayak carrier, just one. If you want to carry 2 kayaks you will have to get a hitch receiver installed and carry your kayaks on a trailer. The advantage of this setup is you will not have to worry about load assistance, since the trailer is lower than your 2016 Nissan Rogue's roof.

I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2". part # e98846. This is a 2" hitch receiver that has a maximum tongue weight of 525 lbs and a maximum tow weight of 3500 lbs. If you are attaching a trailer you will need wiring for your trailer. The Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector, part # C56033. This will allow you to hook your lights, brakes, turn signals, and hazard lights to your trailer. Once outfitted, I recommend this trailer.

The Yakima Rack and Roll Trailer - 66", part # Y08106, is like having a roof rack on wheels. This trailer can hold up to 250lbs of gear. The trailer has traditional Yakima round bars, so you can attach any of your roof rack accessories, even cargo boxes. It does not offer load assistance but is at waist level, making it easy to load your kayaks. It has a 4-pin adapter so you can hook the trailer lights to your vehicle's brake, turn signal, and hazard lights. The tongue of the trailer can be removed making storage easy.

Now that I have selected the hitch receiver and tow trailer, we need a ball mount. The Yakima Rack and Roll trailer works with a 2" ball. Your hitch receiver needs a ball mount that sits 7" above the hitch receiver. I recommend the Flash Solid Steel Adjustable 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 6" Drop, 7" Rise - 8K or 12K, part # FA49-00-5600. The 2" ball with this setup has a maximum towing weight of 8,000lbs.

I have included product description links and video review links below.