Carrying Cargo on the Roof, Rear Hatch, or Trailer Hitch on a 2011 Honda CR-V

Question:

I have a 2011 Honda CRV EX-L NO spoiler! with fixed roof points that Im interested in fitting a Thule rack system on so that I can use a cargo box. My wife would prefer we get the AeroBlade Edge for aesthetic reasons. I have a couple questions... 1. Which boxes would fit well without interfering too much with the hatch opening and not too far over windshield!? Currently looking at the Surge and the Force, would prefer size XL if possible for total capacity, but wont rule out a L. 2. Will there be any interference with XM radio? I understand the antenna may need to be unscrewed, but the satellite antenna would probably still be covered. Im moving across the country and would be really bummed if I could transport more things but be unable to utilize the XM.

asked by: Cole

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your best option for the 2011 Honda CR-V is to go with the Pulse L box, # TH615. It is shorter than the Force XL box by 8 inches and will not interfere with the hatch as much (though it is likely) or overhang the front as much. Both boxes will fit the AeroBlade Edge roof rack # TH7602-TH7602. Fit kit # THKIT3042 is also needed to install the rack on your CR-V.

As you can see in the video I have linked the antenna did have to come off. However, if the XM antenna on your CR-V does not go higher than the tops of the bars once installed then it will not be an issue.

You may get some interference depending on what you have in the cargo box but I would not expect it to completely block the signal.

Another option is to use the Rightline Cargo Hatch Saddlebag, # RL100B90, by using the car clips, # RL100605. This will allow you to keep the roof open and still carry up to 100 pounds of cargo in the 13 cubic foot bag.

And a third option is to install a trailer hitch, # 87440, and use an enclosed cargo carrier, # TH665C. But the CR-V does not have a very high tongue weight capacity, check owners manual to confirm. So the most you could put in the carrier would be 100 pounds since the carrier weighs about 50 pounds and the tongue weight capacity of the CR-V should be 150 pounds.