How to Fit Two Sea Kayaks and a Thule Cargo Box on a Honda CR-V with Yakima Roof Rack

Updated 08/19/2020 | Published 05/08/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima JayLow Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(151)

$238.95

Yakima RoundBar Crossbars - Steel - Black - 66" Long - Qty 2

(15746)

$153.94

Question:

I have a CR-V with 48inch bars. Would like to carry 2 sea kayaks and maybe even get my Thule Evolution box on top. I have Yak horizontal kayak cradles now but think I can be more efficient with J bars. Which is most space efficient? Could I get 2 sets plus my Thule large wide, 1800? Evolution box on 48 or 60 bars?

asked by: Ethan

Expert Reply:

I may have an option for you, but you will most likely not be able to fit two kayaks with J-style kayak carriers and the Evolution 1800 cargo box on 48 inch or 60 inch crossbars. Instead, I recommend looking at the Yakima Kayak JayLow, # Y04073.

The JayLow can stack the kayaks on their sides giving you more room for the cargo box. You may need to upgrade to the 66 inch crossbars, # Y00410, due to the size of your cargo box, but that will also depend on the size of your kayaks. If you place your kayaks together at the hulls and measure their width, that will tell you how much room you will have for your cargo box.

expert reply by: John H

Valerie

8/9/2020

Same idea, I'm buying a 2013 Subaru Crosstrek and I was wondering what would be best it I want to fit 2 kayaks and a ski box/rack. Thanks

Jon G.

8/19/2020

To fit 2 kayaks and a cargo box on the roof of your 2013 Subaru Crosstrek you're going to need 70" Yakima crossbars. I recommend the 70" JetStream Bars # Y00427 with the TimberLine Towers # Y33TR. Then for a cargo box I recommend the GrandTour 18 # YA74FR and 2 of the etrailer Kayak Carrier # e98878.