Can My Older Thule J-Style Kayak Carrier fit a Catch 130 Hydryve on My Thule Xsporter Ladder Rack?

Question:

Hello I have a 2 part question. I have a new kayak, Catch 130 Hydryve. I would like to use my old Thule J-racks. They are the older version that have the curved metal on both ends. Are the J-racks big enough for that kayak. and second question. I currently have the X-sporter Ladder racks on my F-150. What do I need to do to get the J-racks to work on the ladder rack.

asked by: Glenda S

Expert Reply:

It truly depends on the maximum width of kayaks allowed with that older model of Thule J-rack. Without knowing the specific model of kayak carrier you have, I am unfortunately unable to determine if your 34-inch wide kayak is compatible with the carrier. If you know the model you have, feel free to respond to this answer and I would be happy to confirm for you.

While we do have a great option for you, as far as mounting the carrier onto the Thule Xsporter ladder rack, you unfortunately will not be able to use your older Thule carrier. This is because the 3-1/2" wide x 1-1/2" tall crossbars are much too large for Thule J-style carriers. If you happen to have a channel-mount model of J-carrier, this method will not work either because the channels of the Xsporter are different than the channel dimensions on Thule roof rack crossbars.

The best option is to go with the Malone SaddleUp Pro Kayak Carrier # MPG1001. Not only does the SaddleUp include hardware designed to work with the top channels of your Xsporter, it also comes with 90 pounds of maximum kayak weight capacity. Since your Catch 130 Hydryve weighs 78 pounds, this is plenty of capacity for your needs. Additionally, there is no maximum width of kayak that works with the SaddleUp. To top it all off, with the # MPG1001, you do not have to worry about purchasing any additional straps because the carrier comes with 2 load straps and 2 bow/stern ties to secure your kayak.

expert reply by: Bob C