How To Carry Kayaks & Bikes At The Same Time On A Ladder Rack

Updated 07/07/2021 | Published 07/02/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima OverHaul HD Adjustable Truck Bed Ladder Rack w/ Tonneau Cover Adapters - 60" Crossbars

(122)

$1247.20

RetraxONE XR Hard Tonneau Cover - Retractable - Polycarbonate - Matte Black - Accessory T-Slots

(34)

$1699.99

Yakima BigStack Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Post Style - Folding - Clamp On

(18)

$159.20

Question:

I have a 2019 RAM 1500 with a RETRAX tonneau. Id like to carry two mountain bikes and 2 solo kayaks on this rack. This looks like a great option but Im wondering when the rack is at the max height needed for kayaks to clear the cab, whether the bikes will be up too high for stability and clearance on bridges. And will two bikes and two kayaks fit across the bar if I use J-style carriers to hold the kayaks?

asked by: Hal W

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you want to use the Yakima OverHaul HD # Y01151-5755 with your Retrax Tonneau cover # RTT-60243 on your 2019 Ram 1500, they will work together. If you want to carry two bikes and kayaks you will need to use one kayak carrier that can carry then both vertically. That way you will have enough room for two other bikes.

The best way to get the most out of your rack is to use a post style kayak carrier # Y04041. these keep the kayaks on their side so you take up the least amount of space.

I really like the Yakima HighRoad # Y75FR. This one can be mounted via T-Track or it can just wrap around the bars, whichever you prefer. There won't be much difference in height between the two types of mounting.

In regards to clearance and sturdiness. I've had this rack on the top of a car and also on top of the bed of a truck and I didn't see any excessive movement. I wouldn't worry about sturdiness. Clearance is a different story. You shouldn't have an issue but you should measure the height of your bikes when installed to see how high it is. Any road bridge should have the height posted so you will know if you will fit or not. Probably not a setup you would want to go through a drive though with but I think most if not all bridges you will clear easy. Taking the measurement will give you peace of mind.

expert reply by: Adam E