Roof Rack and Assisted Paddleboard Carrier Recommendation 2019 Honda HR-V with Flush Rails

Question:

Hello, just got used 2019 honda hrv with flush rails. I have a Thule roof system for 20 years but was told the crossbars will not give enough clearance from roof to underside of bar with the flush rail system. The Rhino RVP rack seems to be a correct fit. My adirondack canoe weighs 12 lbscarbon so no problem BUT my SUP is 35 lbs and at 75 thats a lot to load aloneprevious vehicle was honda fit so much lower to ground. Is this correct rack for my new vehicle AND suggestions about SUP loading would be appreciated. Thank you,

asked by: Gail C

Expert Reply:

Thule did completely change their roof rack designs recently so there definitely isn't a way to adapt your old rack to fit your 2019 Honda HR-V with flush rails. The Rhino Rack RVP roof rack part # RR55QJ is a confirmed fit for your vehicle though and would be a great option unless you wanted an assisted board carrier like you mentioned. Assisted carriers need a rack that has bars that overhang past the feet of the rack like with the Rhino Rack roof rack part numbers # RRVA118S-2, # RRRCL4, # RRSUB0671, # RR66QJ.

We do have an assisted paddleboard carrier with the Yakima ShowDown part # Y04081 which would be a really great option although it's on the more expensive side. Basically it gives you ability to load the board (or your kayak) at a height that is 26 inches lower than the crossbars and you'd from there push it up on top of the vehicle using the assisted feature.

expert reply by: Jameson C