Rhino-Rack Roof Rack, Bike Rack, and Kayak Carrier Recommendations for 2016 Toyota Highlander

Updated 08/09/2016 | Published 08/08/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 49" Long - Qty 2

(2759)

$203.66

Custom RCP Fit Kit for 4 Rhino-Rack RC and RV Series Roof Rack Legs - Fixed Mounting Points

(304)

$139.99

Question:

I have 2016 Toyota Highlander LE+ No rails, just a groove on each side with a 2 plastic plugs covering what I believe is a mounting point. Will this rack fit? Will it mount a bike rack or a kayak carrier? And are these attachments universal , or proprietary to Rhino? Thanks Geve me the right answers or an alternative and Ill order one posthaste.

asked by: Glenn L

Expert Reply:

The Rhino-Rack roof rack that will fit your 2016 Toyota Highlander with naked roof is made up of bars # RRVA126B-2, legs # RRRCH4, and fit kit # RRRCP37-BK. It uses the fixed mounting points you mentioned. Rhino-Rack RSP Series Roof Rack # RRRSP31 fits models with flush side rails so it will not work for you.

You can indeed use the roof rack to mount a bike rack or kayak carrier. For a bike rack I recommend the Mountain Trail # RBC035 for a fork mount or the Hybrid # RRRBC050 for a wheel mount. I have linked videos of both bike racks for you.

For a kayak carrier I recommend the popular J-Style carrier # S512. I have linked a video of this carrier as well. The mounting hardware that all of the above carriers use is pretty much universal meaning that it will fit on most round, square, and aero roof rack bars and even most factory roof racks. There are very few exceptions.

expert reply by: Michael H