Is this right for you? Product Expert Kathleen M says:
Yes, if you:
Appreciate having everything you need included - comes with strap anchors to make it easy to attach the bow/stern straps
Have a tight budget but want a decent rack that you can afford to buy as a pair to carry a boat for you and friend
Park in the garage and need a carrier that can fold down and out of the way
No, if you:
Worry about the rack getting snatched if you leave it on your roof while you’re out paddling
Travel through areas with high winds where the force might be too much for this entry level rack
Get out on the water all the time and need a rugged system to last through frequent use for years to come
This J-style kayak carrier allows you to transport 1 kayak safely and securely on your roof rack. The space-saving cradle system mounts to most crossbar styles and folds down for storage. Includes padded anchors and tie-down straps. Lowest Prices for the best watersport carriers from etrailer. etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier - Folding - Universal Mount part number e98878 can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-833-496-1390 for expert service.
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Why etrailer?
etrailer Watersport Carriers
- e98878
Fishing Kayak
Kayak
Roof Mount Carrier
Aero Bars
Factory Bars
Round Bars
Square Bars
Elliptical Bars
J-Style
Folding
etrailer
Clamp On
Side Loading
No Load Assist
This J-style kayak carrier allows you to transport 1 kayak safely and securely on your roof rack. The space-saving cradle system mounts to most crossbar styles and folds down for storage. Includes padded anchors and tie-down straps.
Features:
Folding, J-style cradles carry 1 kayak on its side safely and securely
Accommodates a variety of watercraft styles and sizes
Takes up minimal space on your roof rack so you can carry more gear
Folds down for overhead clearance when not in use and for convenient storage
Upright arms with integrated cam levers stabilize your kayak
Padded bases and arms cushion your kayak and protect the hull from scuffs and scratches
2 Load straps with cam buckles secure kayak to your roof rack
2 Bow/stern tie-downs anchor kayak to your vehicle
2 Anchor straps create a temporary mounting point for bow/stern tie-down
Brackets and hand knobs let you mount the carrier to most crossbar configurations
Rubberized brackets help to keep saddles from sliding on crossbar
Lightweight, aluminum frame resists corrosion
Specs:
Carrying capacity: 1 kayak
Application: round, square, aero/elliptical and most factory crossbars
Maximum crossbar dimensions: 3-1/8" wide x 1-1/2" tall
Weight capacity: 150 lbs
1-Year warranty
Adjustable, Fold-Down Arms
The arms on this J-style kayak carrier are adjustable to fit a variety of boats. There are 2 levers, 1 on the outside of each arm, that are used to adjust the carrier. Depending on the size of your kayak's hull, simply rotate both of the side levers forward and pivot the arm to the appropriate angle to ensure that your boat sits properly in the cradle. Then rotate the levers back to lock the arm into place.
When the carrier is not in use, the upright arms fold down flat and out of the way. Again, simply rotate both side levers forward, pull the arm down so it's parallel with your roof racks crossbars, and then rotate the levers back to lock the arm into place. When in the folded position, the carrier extends just 4-5/8" from the top of your roof rack's crossbars.
Padded Tie-Down Straps
The 2 included load straps secure your kayak to your vehicle's roof rack. Run each strap underneath the carrier arm, around the hull of your boat, down through the cradle and underneath the roof rack crossbar. Then pull the strap back up and through the integrated cam buckle. Use the buckle to tighten the strap and secure your boat. Each strap includes a padded sleeve that slides over the cam buckle to ensure that it won't scratch or damage your kayak or your vehicle.
Unlike many other kayak carriers on the market, which typically use metal S-hooks as anchors, this unit includes padded hood and trunk anchor points to secure the bow and stern of your kayak. Not only does this make for a quick and easy setup because you don't need to search for a safe place to secure a hook, but it also ensures that your vehicle's paint job remains intact. Tying down your boat's bow and stern helps to prevent the boat from shifting forward or backward during transport.
Simply open the hood of your vehicle, insert the padded anchor point, and close the hood. Then attach the strap to the bow of your kayak. Use the ratchet pulley to easily adjust the tension of the strap. Repeat this process at the rear of your vehicle by anchoring the strap in your trunk and attaching the other end to the stern of your boat.
Tool-Free Installation
Installation is quick and easy and doesn't require any tools. The included mounting clamps fit round, square, aero/elliptical, and most factory crossbars. First, position the cradles so that they are lined up correctly and are sitting at least 24" apart. Then slide the mounting clamps underneath your roof rack's crossbars and attach them to the cradles with the included screws. Use the included hand knobs to easily tighten and secure the clamps around your crossbars.
e98878 etrailer J-Style Boat and Watercraft Carrier - Aluminum - Universal Mount
This J-style kayak carrier allows you to transport 1 kayak safely and securely on your roof rack. The space-saving cradle system mounts to most crossbar styles and folds down for storage. Includes padded anchors and tie-down straps.
by: Anthony08/11/2021
I think everything was designed perfectly. No detail in design was left out. In particular I appreciated the front and rear lines with the under-hood stops. My car hood, however had them sliding up toward the fire wall but they eventually stopped and I just tightened the lines. In addition to all that the installation was simple and fast for 68 years old me. Thanks for a great product.1120700
The kayak carriers have served us well. Theyve held up well on several highway rides from far southern new jersey to central maine. Ive recommended them to many friends and family. The strapping system always impresses folks.
Anthony - 08/12/2022
146345
by: Jorge05/16/2022
Recently got this and far they have been great for holding down the kayaks. The straps work great but the elastic band which is built in with the straps suck. Other than that great product.1298634
Excellent kayak j style roof mount. All straps and hardware included at a great price. Very high quality. Very simple installation. This is the second time purchasing this product. Highly recommended. Couldn't be more satisfied.1408985
by: Jonathan05/09/2021
I've had 2 sets of these carriers for a year now. I've carried my 2 kayaks on several occasions with them. They are secure, steady and well made. They come with all the straps and hardware needed to carry your boat. A nice feature is that they have these little pockets made on to the straps to secure the extra length when you are using them which eliminates the loose ends from being blown around while driving. The folding feature is also great. I mount the carriers on my roof rack and make all the adjustments needed just one time. I can keep them up there for the entire season without having to fuss with them every time I want to take a boat out. I can use one or both of the carriers at any time. The price looks like its more than other sets but it really isn't because, as I said, they come with everything you need AND they fold down when not in use. I realy do like these carriers.1033121
Comments
Excellent
Jonathan L - 05/11/2022
138772
by: Pierre06/23/2019
Great product for the price - The cradles were very easy to mount (and lay flat once folded). The videos were helpful in showing how to set the straps in the most efficient way. I test-drove my car today with my fishing kayak on top on a 80-mile round trip (a mix of freeway, country road and dirt tracks). The kayak was perfectly still, no particular wind noise and I was able to muscle to kayak up the roof and take it down on my own (it's a 52 lbs boat). I really recommend that product and I'm glad I went for J-Style cradles!662039
A year later, still looks and works like new! Kept the cradles on the roofbars over the winter and didnt see any rubber cracks. The only accessory which did age over time are the straps. Definitely recommend the product and am considering purchasing a second set for another boat.
Pierre D - 06/24/2020
81970
by: Ted02/14/2020
Ok... It's the middle of winter in Colorado, but I'm getting ready to put the kayaks in the water. Shipping time... Great! Three days. Packaged perfectly. Mounted easily. Mounted the kayaks. The only hard thing was putting the strap around the back of the bracket. A stepladder will need to go with me to the water! I drove around to make sure all was secure. Perfect! 60 plus mph.... All is fine. Nice to have the front and rear tiedowns included. All hardware is heavy duty, and well supported by my stock Outback racks. Need to take them for a trip to the mountains! (After the snow clears out...) . 751510
I drive a crossover SUV and love to kayak, so I understand the need for a boost to get those kayak straps in place! The Rightline Gear Moki Door Step # RL100660 Rightline Gear Moki Door Step - 400 lbs $49.95 is going to be coming with me this summer on all of my kayak trips to help give me a boost to reach the center of my roof and the kayak cradles. It is a lot smaller than a step ladder for stowing in your vehicle.
These kayak carriers work very well, plus the manufacturer includes the straps. The racks fold down, so my Tacoma fits in garage. They were in the sun for 3 months and thick foam padding is holding up very well. I traveled them 5,000 miles with no problems. They are attached to a round crossbar on my Yakima rack. 782543
Great set up! Just remember to tie down the kayaks bow and stern before taking off.
-- Victoria B - 04/21/2020
73828
by: Phillip09/29/2021
These have held up well. They get only very occasional use, but they have lived outside on the truck and are still working fine. They are easy to adjust, they hold the boats well, and the straps are well-made.1165333
Comments
A year in, theyre still holding up. Be careful when loading boats that no protruding piece, especially a skeg lever handle, drags across the foam pads of the J-bar, or it will tear them. We had to reverse which boat went on which side to avoid repeating that.
Phillip R - 09/30/2022
148351
by: Marcus 07/19/2022
This is holding up really well and it comes with every strap you need to hold your kayaks down. No additional straps and hood tie downs requires. Everything you need is included. Highly recommend! No complaints and it is a much cheaper price tag than your Thule or similar racks.1332641
by: Ryan03/27/2022
Excellent system for transporting kayaks safely. First time user mounting/transporting two kayaks on the freeway. Everything was self explanatory, secure and easy to use.1278242
by: Amy N07/03/2022
I can be a bit mechanically challenged at times, and I managed to assemble and install! I’m excited to get my kayak rack on and head out!1320490
I have not had my kayak on this rack yet but I looks good. I had some struggle with the bolts getting them though the holes properly but it seems fine otherwise. The tale will be told after I mount the kayak.1361105
by: Thomas07/30/2022
The racks provided are a perfect fit for my Subaru sedan, had trouble finding one on other sites. Rack are rock solid, rattle free and look good, and priced right. Installation instructions are lengthy but spot on.1342407
by: Joshua12/30/2021
I am well under the weight limit on these things - my heaviest kayak is around 80lbs and they're falling apart, writing 6 months the front straps are frayed badly and one of ten has torn almost all the way through. The foam on the rear has torn up from sliding the kayak up and I had to duct tape it. Also, the mounting bolts are pretty small. They seem to be about 1/4" too short for my adarac square bars which made it very difficult to install.1234354
Comments
The etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier - Part # e98878 has a 1-year warranty. I will have Customer Service reach out to you.
-- Thomas M - 01/26/2022
131890
by: Michael 11/28/2021
Alex was very helpful and the tutorial video was spot on!! we purchased the complete Thule Evo Wingbar roof rack system along with these kayak carriers! I highly recommend everyone watch the video!1213313
by: Michael01/19/2022
So far, I do like the carrier, but some things became evident shortly after I started using them:The mounts on the bottom that fix to the factory carrier bar on my Nissan Frontier do not clamp fully on the bar. I had to make some rubber spacers to fit in between to keep the carrier from sliding.
The cam lock adjustment has a plastic handle and it seems at times I might break the handle when adjusting it. When I have the upper rail in position and have the cam locked in place, the teeth on the cam don’t make full contact all the way around. That has me worried (see pics)1246477
Comments
These are supposed to clamp on to very thin bars but if you want to fill in the space that would be ok. Our tech said as far as the teeth engagement, adjusting the angle of the upright slightly should engage the teeth to ensure a solid lock.
-- Sierra K - 01/27/2022
131997
by: Billy05/07/2022
Rack was as described and works great. etrailer customer service is the best. Was missing end cap on cross bars and they sent a set out with in 3 days. Nice when a company makes things right in a timely manner.1295092
by: BillyBob07/18/2022
Easy to mount, easy to use. Works perfect for 2 side by side kayaks on roof of Outback.1332438
by: Dan06/30/2020
I was about to spend over $500 on Thule roof carriers for two kayaks, and I wasn't even going to have all the necessary straps or a way to attach them to our Subaru Crosstrek. Then I saw this etrailer alternative, and I'm so happy I did. Each set comes with everything you need to secure a kayak to existing roof rack bars, and installation is super easy. I bought two and saved at least $300 and a lot of hassle. We were able to transport the two kayaks from Seattle to our cabin no problem, driving upwards of 60-70 mph through a bit of rain and wind.825216
I have a Mazda CX-5 with the factory aero-crossbars and they are too thin for the bracket. I was able to make it work by moving it all the way to the outside and have it clamp-onto the plastic bracket that holds the crossbar on the rail. I may try straightening the supplied bracket that goes under the crossbar.
But, to their credit, it does list a minimum crossbar thickness. Other than this, I really like the mounts.871662
Comments
I was able to make the brackets work with the aero crossbars and have had absolutely no problems with them. Very happy with the carriers. Highly recommend.
Kevin D - 08/31/2021
120100
by: Jesse08/14/2022
easy to use, love that these fold down 1358337
by: Eric06/17/2022
I would have given this a 5 star rating, however it states it will fit a 1.5" square cross bar. The bolts are not long enough to attach this to my Adarac system. I had to go buy longer M8 bolts at the hardware store. Kind of a bummer but it could have been worse.1314042
by: user06/18/2021
These could use a bit more support left to right. Two attachment points on each cradle would make these much sturdier. I would buy these again in similar circumstances.1068791
With nothing at the top of the cradle to hold the strap it is more difficult than it needs to be to get the strap over the top of the kayak. A at least 3 of the straps have ripped almost in half.1188337
Comments
Thank you for the review! Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier part # MPG114MD Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier with Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Side Loading $161.95 has a channel for the strap at the top of the carrier. In addition to the channel for the strap, this Malone carrier is close in price and in style to the etrailer J Style Kayak carrier.
-- Brooke M - 10/28/2021
123499
by: David11/25/2021
Parts are acceptable and great for the price. The tie down straps did not work for me at all. They continuously came loose and I had to stop and tighten multiple times on the initial trips. I purchased a set of 4 ratchet straps and wrapped the kayaks around the holder and under the car carrier and secured them nicely so good to go with this setup.1212058
Yes the etrailer kayak carrier part # e98878 that you referenced is a confirmed fit for you the factory Mercedes crossbars you have on your 2015 Mercedes GLA250. view full answer...
I checked with Thule but they don't show the Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Kayak Carrier as a fit for a 2017 Toyota Highlander with factory crossbars. The Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Kayak Carrier mounts using t-slots which factory crossbars don't have hence why they are not compatible. Instead, I recommend the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier part # e98878 which will work well. view full answer...
The etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier part # e98878 should work just fine on a 2018 Nissan Rogue. It fits crossbars up to 3-1/8" wide x 1-1/2" tall so there should be no issues. view full answer...
The etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier part # e98878 is a great cost effective kayak carrier options that works on most factory crossbars like those on a Subaru Outback and Honda Pilot. view full answer...
For your application I recommend getting 2 of our etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878 because this is rated for 150 lbs and will do a great job at getting your kayaks to your boating destination safely.
I have attached a review video for you to check out. view full answer...
A pair of the etrailer brand # e98878 J-Style Kayak carrier weigh in right at 10 lbs. The carrier fits round, square, aero/elliptical and most factory crossbars Maximum crossbar dimensions: 3-1/8" wide x 1-1/2" tall and has a weight capacity of 150 lbs. This is a neat setup as it includes all the tie-down straps and the anchor straps that allow you to attach the bow/stern tie downs without using a metal hook that would scratch your vehicle.
If you use the provided link, you can see a product... view full answer...
Our etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier - Folding - Universal Mount Item # e98878 will work with a 34 inch wide fishing kayak! Our carrier will fit on mostly any crossbar you may have with a maximum crossbar dimension of 3-1/8" wide x 1-1/2" tall. Be aware that you need to have the carrier at last 24" apart and you cannot load more than 150lbs on our carrier. Luckily, our carrier comes with all the tie-downs you need!
I've included a video of me using the carrier so check it out! view full answer...
I would utilize the roof rack on your 2014 Ford F-150. Adding the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878 is a great way to go and it is compatible with your Thule roof rack.
This carrier packs a lot of features normally found in higher priced options. It folds down when not in use to save some height clearance. Most kayak carriers Include a strap system but this one has a few extra features I like. The included anchors make it much easier to secure your bow and stern compared to a metal... view full answer...
We do offer kayak carriers that I guarantee will fit your 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe's aero crossbars and are a great value. I strongly recommend returning your unusable kayak carriers and instead getting the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878.
These will fit your 2-1/2" wide crossbars (they fit crossbars up to 3-1/8" wide x 1-1/2" tall) and are extremely strong, with a 150 lb capacity. This carrier also has padding to protect your kayaks, comes with tie-downs to save you an added expense,... view full answer...
To carry your Sportsman 120 PDL 85 pound kayak on your 2017 Toyota Highlander with factory roof rails. I recommend the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier - Folding - Universal Mount Item # e98878. This carrier is an aluminum construction so it's not only light weight but you don't have to worry about corrosion. Has a 150lb single kayak weight capacity. Comes with everything needed to secure your kayak. view full answer...
The etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier, part # e98878, is designed to work with factory crossbars. It fits crossbars up to 3-1/8" wide x 1-1/2" tall, so it will definitely work with your 2016 Nissan Murano.
It's a great carrier and has the straps included. I've linked to a video review of it on factory crossbars below. view full answer...
The etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier - Folding - Universal Mount # e98878 fits most factory crossbars and should fit your Hyundai Palisade, but you will want to measure just to be absolutely sure. This carrier fits bars that are up to 3-1/8" wide and up to 1-1/2" tall. As long as your crossbars are under these specs then you are all set! view full answer...
Your best option for carrying an 83lb kayak on your Adarac ladder rack is to use etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier - Folding - Universal Mount # e98878. This will fit around the square bars on your ladder rack and provide a nice J-style cradle for your kayak. The weight capacity is 150lbs for this carrier and the weight capacity for your ladder rack is 500lbs, so you will have no issue with this setup. Straps and tie-downs are included with this kit; I attached a demonstration video for you. view full answer...
My go to kayak carrier is this carrier # e98878. I've used it many many times and it's done very well. We've had the same set in the shop for years and it's still looking brand new. Even if you're in the salt water the aluminum doesn't corrode away which is nice. These take up just as much space as any other J-Style carrier but this one folds down so you don't have to remove it every time you want to park in your garage and it won't make much wind noise in the lowered position. Folding... view full answer...
If you have a 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon that has the fold-in factory crossbars, it will not effect the compatibility of the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier - Folding - Universal Mount # e98878 with the crossbars. However, it is important to note that the etrailer kayak carrier will fit crossbars with maximum dimensions of 3-1/8 inches wide x 1-1/2 inches tall. In order to make sure that your crossbars are compatible, I recommend measuring those dimensions of your crossbars. view full answer...
If you have a low-profile factory crossbar system on your 2020 Toyota 4Runner, you will be able to use the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878 as long as you have at least 1-1/4 inches of space between the bottom of your crossbar and the top of your roof. For this dimension, I recommend measuring your roof. view full answer...
Yes, you can install a set of j-style kayak carriers like the J-Style Kayak Carrier part # e98878 on your 2018 Honda Civic Hatchback. view full answer...
The etrailer.com J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878 is designed to fit on a variety of crossbar styles, including most OEM crossbars. As long as your bars are smaller than 4" wide and between 7/8"-2" thick, the etrailer.com J-Style Kayak Carrier will work on your bars. If you measure your crossbars and they're not within those measurements, let me know and I will work to find you an alternative solution. view full answer...
In order to mount two kayaks on a 2020 Subaru Outback you will need to haul them both on their side as this is the only way to be able to fit both on the factory roof rack. The best way to haul two kayaks on their side is with a j-style carrier as these are the most secure and easiest to load. I recommend the etrailer.com J-Style Kayak Carrier part # e98878. In order to haul both kayaks at the same time you will need two sets.
The etrailer.com J-Style Kayak Carrier comes with all the... view full answer...
We have a way for you to carry a pair of kayaks with a total weight of 165 lbs, but there isn't a single carrier that has the capability to haul two kayaks with that much weight, so the only option is going to be two separate carriers. There is one really good option that is also a great value relative to other carriers, and that is the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878.
This carrier is extremely sturdy, with a 150 lb per-kayak capacity, has rubber padding to protect your kayaks... view full answer...
The best kayak carrier that will fit the OEM factory roof rack on your 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe is the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier for Roof Racks # e98878.
It's a great option that includes the tie downs. I have added a link to a video review for you to check out. view full answer...
I checked with the engineers who designed the etrailer kayak carrier # e98878 who told me that as long as you can get the strap around the kayaks it's fine and that there isn't a max width for it. Your 35 inch wide kayaks would easily fit. The height of the upper part of the kayak is 15-1/2 inches. view full answer...
I have the perfect option for you to carry a kayak(s) on a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox with a j-style carrier. The etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier part # e98878 is what I recommend as it can be folded flat for storage, it has padded uprights to protect the kayaks, and it comes with all the tie-downs needed. This system will fit crossbars up to 3-1/8" wide to 1-1/2" tall so as long as your crossbars fall within this range you will be good to go. view full answer...
The J-style kayak carrier I recommend that will work on square bars for your trailer is the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878.
This will mount around your square bars that are up to up to 3-1/8 inches wide and 1-1/2 inches tall. This is a heavy-duty carrier, rated for kayaks up to 150 lbs so it is a really good option and I highly recommend it.
I have added links to a couple video reviews for you to check out as well of the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878. view full answer...
Notes: Item is missing one T-nut. Otherwise new and unused.
Our Price: $105.42
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Condition: Missing Parts
Notes: Item is missing the hardware. Otherwise new and unused.
Our Price: $116.46
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