Kayak Carrier And Bike Rack Options For 2014 Chevrolet Spark With Naked Roof

Question:

Could you please recommend the best system for a 2014 Chevy Spark with no existing roof rails. I would like to be able to carry up to two kayaks and a mountain bike not all at the same time. I currently have one 10ft sit on top kayak that weighs 55#. Thank you!

asked by: Kendra M

Expert Reply:

I did some research on your 2014 Chevrolet Spark and per the owner's manual it states that no more than 110 lbs can be carried on the roof or the vehicle could suffer damage. Carrying 2 kayaks would not be an option because the weight on the roof with the kayaks, roof rack, and kayak carrier would exceed the roof weight limit.

If carrying one kayak is an option for you I recommend the Rhino-Rack ROC25 Roof Rack, part # RR22RR. This roof rack has quiet aerodynamic black crossbars and features a locking system that secures the rack to the roof of your car.

For a kayak carrier I recommend the Rhino-Rack J-Style Kayak Carrier, part # S510. This is a J-style fixed position carrier that holds 1 kayak on its side while taking up minimal space on the top of the car. I have attached a product review video for this carrier you can check out.

If you find that the weight of 2 kayaks will allow you to carry them both at the same time on the roof of your Spark, the kayak carrier I recommend for the roof rack is the Thule The Stacker, part # TH830. This carrier can handle 2 kayaks and weighs 8 lbs.

I also recommend the Thule Hood Loops, part # TH529. These simply attach to the tie-downs and you close them inside the hood to protect the paint of the vehicle. The etrailer kit # e36ZR includes both straps and the anchors that close inside of your

For a roof rack mounted bike carrier I recommend the Thule UpRide, part # TH599000. This secures the bike to the carrier with the frame mount, and also includes straps to secure the wheels while the bike is loaded.

Another option you may wish to consider is to use a small trailer behind your Spark like the Yakima Rack And Roll Trailer, part # Y08106. This will easily hold the two kayaks or the mountain bike and you would not have to worry about the weight on the roof of your vehicle. The trailer can easily be stored when not in use. The tongue and wheels are easily removed and the trailer can be stored in an upright position or hung on a wall.

If you decide on using a trailer, you will need a hitch and also the wiring for the trailer.

If you do not have ground effects on your Spark and it is a non-EV model, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch, part # C11334. This is a Class l hitch with a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. We unfortunately do not have a hitch that fits a Spark model that has ground effects.

I recommend the Sportframe Drawbar, part # 3594, and the Hitch Ball, part # 19258.

The wiring I recommend for your vehicle is the Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Connector # HM11141120. This plugs easily into the existing wiring on your vehicle and includes a powered converter which will make sure you do not overload the vehicle electrical system.

When working with electrical connectors I recommend using dielectric grease like part # 11755. This keeps dirt and moisture out of the connections and helps prevent corrosion.