How to Carry 2 100 lb Kayaks on 2017 Toyota RAV4

Updated 06/12/2020 | Published 06/10/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Expansion Arm for Rhino-Rack J-Style Kayak Carrier

(11)

$130.62

etrailer Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(219)

$129.99

Malone LowBed MicroSport Trailer - 78" Crossbars - 800 lbs

(28)

$2195.10

Question:

I have a 2017 RAV4 with factory roof racks. How do I upgrade to something that will haul two kayaks that weigh around 200 lbs combined? Can I just replace the crossbars?

asked by: Michael B

Expert Reply:

None of the roof rack options we offer for the 2017 RAV4 offer a capacity greater than 165 lbs, so although I don't have a solution for carrying the kayaks on the roof of your vehicle, we do have a solution.

Your best bet would be a small kayak trailer like the Malone MicroSport, part # MPG464-LB. The trailer's crossbars are rated up to 500 lbs, so they'll handle your kayaks without breaking a sweat. For a properly rated carrier (if you don't already have them), I'd recommend the etrailer brand # e98878 which has a 150 lb capacity. They're sold individually, so you'd need two of them. Each carrier includes 2 load straps, two bow/stern tie downs and two anchors.

I've linked to demonstration videos for the kayak trailer and the carrier I recommended above.

expert reply by: Mike L