Roof Rack and Kayak Carrier for 2008 Mini Cooper

Published 01/15/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 46" Long - Qty 2

(2754)

$239.98

Replacement Tie-Down Strap with Buckle for Thule Roof Mounted Watersport Carriers

(32)

$17.46

Replacement Rope for Thule Roof Mounted Watersport Carriers - 1/4" Diameter

(19)

$16.33

Replacement Buckle Protector for Thule Roof Mounted Watersport Carriers or Load Straps

(128)

$11.42

Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars - Naked Roofs or Fixed Mounting Points - Qty 4

(8964)

$234.99

Thule Stacker Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Post Style - Folding - Clamp On

(66)

$229.95

Question:

I was looking at the Thule rack for a 2008 Mini Cooper the one with the short roof kit. I want to carry two kayaks. They weigh 96 lbs total so the weight should be OK. Is the rack wide enough to carry two kayaks on their sides?

asked by: Mark G

Expert Reply:

The Rhino-Rack Load Bars, 46 Inches # RRVA118B-2 with the Legs # RRRLKVA, and the Fit Kit # DK472 will work well to carry your kayaks on the roof of your 2008 Mini Cooper hatchback.

At 96 pounds, your kayaks are within the weight capacity of the rack, however you will want to check your owner's manual to confirm the weight capacity of your Mini Cooper's roof.

With the load bars being 46 inches long, you should not have any problem carrying the kayaks on their sides.

The kayak carrier I recommend to secure the two kayaks to your roof rack is Thule's The Stacker # TH830. This carrier will support your kayaks as they rest on their sides on the roof rack. Included with the carrier are the tie down and ratcheting bow/stern straps for 1 kayak. I have attached a review video of this carrier for you.

To secure your second kayak I recommend 2 of the tie-down straps # 753-2030-02, with 2 buckle protectors # 853-5593. To secure the bow/stern of the second kayak, you can use 2 hook and strap # 853-5466 with 2 ratchets # 853-5464.