Can the Bar Spread for SportRack Roof Rack for a 1999 Honda Civic be Increased

Question:

I have a 1999 Honda Civic 4 door and this rack fits perfectly. I want to use an Inno lifter to be able to hoist the kayak up onto to racks myself. Unfortunately, the recommended distance between the front and back rack is 21 3/4 inches and I need at least 27 inches to use the lifter. My kayak is 12 ft long and 50 lbs. can I spread the racks to 27 inches safely?

asked by: Patti W

Expert Reply:

You would need some extra support because a roof rack fit is based on the most stable and strongest locations on the roof. What I recommend is using the short roof adapter # SR1116 which will allow you to more safely expand the bar spread so you can use the carrier. Please make sure that the kayak does not exceed the capacity of the roof which may be found in the owners manual or by contacting Honda.

expert reply by: Michael H