Can Thule Crossbars be Spread All the Way Apart on Roof of 2012 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen

Question:

I have a 2012 jetta sportwagen TDI. I want to carry a canoe. Can i install my thule bars all the way at the front and back to get the maximum spread and make the canoe most stable? If not, why?

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

The recommended bar spread using a Thule roof rack on your 2012 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen is 34 inches on center which is a good spread for carrying fairly long items like a canoe. But you are not limited to that spread because you can move the bars forward or backward on the side rails as needed so you could increase the bar spread. So if you want a wider spread you can go ahead and do so.

For a Thule canoe carrier you can use the Portage # TH819.

expert reply by: Michael H