Recommended Two Kayak Lift-Assisted Roof Rack System for 2017 Mercedes GLS450 with Side Rails

Question:

I would like to mount two lift assist kayak racks on a 2017 Mercedes GLS450 SUV with factory side rails. Either Yakima or Thule What do you recommend, and which items would I need? Thanks

asked by: Ben L

Expert Reply:

I recommend the Thule AeroBlade Edge Roof Rack - Aluminum # TH7503-TH7503 as a roof rack system for your kayaks. It's a great sturdy system, and the main perks of this roof rack is how low-profile and quiet it is so you can leave it and go about your normal daily routine. You won't have to worry about wind noise which can be a common issue with other roof racks. This also comes in Black # TH7503B-TH7503B and I attached a video so you can see the install process.

For kayak racks, while there are "load-assist" 2-kayak racks where there's a little ramp on the rack to help you slide it into the mount, there aren't any single "lift-assist" options for two kayaks. The Yakima ShowDown # Y04081 only lifts one kayak and would not fit double on your crossbars. The good news is that we've already gotten creative and found parts that work together to fit your needs.

The first option is to use the Telos XL Load Assist for Malone J-Style Kayak Carriers # MPG351XL with two of the Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier with Tie-Downs # MPG114MD along with the Truck Rack Crossbar T-Slot Fit Kit # MPG8287. This has a LOT easier loading experience since it has ratcheting cradles that alternate and lift your kayak up and onto the carrier, which is why I prefer this set up over the second option.

The second option is to use the Rhino-Rack Universal Load Assist # RR-RUSL with the Yakima JayLow Kayak Carrier # Y04073 with an extra Tie-Down kit for your second kayak. You can attach two kayaks to the JayLow in the upright position, you'd just need to move your Load Assist to the other side. You can also use two J-style cradles if you're not interested in the process of reaching up too far onto your roof to turn your kayak around and strap it in.

The Rhino-Rack Load Assist simply creates a ledge you can rest your kayak's weight on as you lift the other end onto the roof. While it still requires some lifting, it's surprisingly efficient and popular among our older kayakers. I attached a picture of how two kayak in J-style carriers look when loaded up with the Rhino-Rack Load Assist.

In conclusion, my recommended two-kayak carrying roof rack system is the Thule AeroBlade Edge # TH7503-TH7503 paired with the Telos XL Load Assist # MPG351XL and two Malone DownLoader carriers # MPG114MD with a T-Slot Fit Kit # MPG8287. I attached videos below of the different carriers and load assist products if you want to see them in action.