Lightweight Kayak Carrier Recommendation for a 2016 Ford Escape to Carry 2 Kayaks

Question:

Will this work with my 2016 Ford Escape with the factory cross bars? However, with the combined weight of my kayaks (38 & 49 lbs) and the Thule Compass (20 lbs), I’m a little concerned about the total weight on the roof. I believe the car lists a max of 100 lbs so that would put us at 107 lbs. What are your thoughts regarding that. I’m guessing that the 100 lbs is not a hard & fast rule but maybe that’s a bad assumption. Thanks

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

If you consulted with your 2016 Ford Escape owner's manual and it lists your crossbars as a maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds, this is a hard and fast maximum. You should never exceed the weight capacity of the crossbars or the roof of your vehicle because doing so can damage your vehicle and can be potentially dangerous.

With that being said, you are correct that the Thule Compass # TH890000 weighs 20 pounds. The best route forward is to find a carrier with less weight. to get you under 100 pounds with your 38 and 49-pound kayaks loaded.

For a great alternative that will get you at the exact 100 pound mark, I recommend using the Yakima JayLow Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs # Y04073 instead of the Compass. the JayLow only weighs 13 pounds, so you will not exceed your rack's weight capacity with the combined weight. To secure the second kayak, you need an addition set of Yakima Bow/Stern Tie-Down Ropes w/ Ratchets and Strap Loops # Y04031. To add locks to protect the carriers, that is the Same-Key Lock Cores - Qty. 2 # Y07202.

In order to make sure that the JayLow clamps around your bars, I recommend measuring the height and width of the crossbars themselves. As long as they don't exceed 3-1/2" x 1-11/16", you are good to go! It is also important to make sure you have at least 24" inches of crossbar spread between your crossbars.