Can Thule Stacker Be Used With 3 Kayaks Weighing 40lbs Each?

Updated 08/17/2021 | Published 08/16/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(66)

$219.95

etrailer Cam Buckle Cinch Straps w/ Buckle Protectors - 1" x 13' - 293 lbs - Qty 4

(139)

$23.76

CargoBuckle Cam Buckle Tie-Down Straps w/ S-Hooks - 1" x 6' - 267 lbs - Qty 4

(20)

$35.39

Rhino-Rack SX Series Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars - Flush Factory Side Rails - Qty 4

(494)

$299.99

Thule Quick Draw Tie-Down Ropes w/ Ratchets and Strap Loops - 13' - Qty 2

(39)

$59.95

Question:

We have three 40 lb kayaks and I see that the Thule Stacker can carry up to four kayaks, but according to Thule.com the load capacity for the Thule Stacker is only 75 lbs. Our kayaks each weigh about 40 lbs. Do you have a different recommended roof rack for a 2016 BMW X5?

asked by: Joe S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Thule The Stacker - Rooftop Multi-Kayak Carrier # TH830 actually would work well for you because the weight of your kayaks will be on the crossbars, not directly on the Stacker. The Stacker will only be taking a fraction of the weight when the kayaks are leaning against it. Just make your your roof and roof rack can handle the 120-130lbs you are adding. If you don't already have a roof rack setup then I would go with Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars # RRVA126B-2 and Legs # RRSX026 which has a weight capacity of 220lbs and attaches to flush roof rails.

The stacker comes with one set of bow tie downs so you will need two more Thule Quick Draw Tie-Down Ropes w/ Ratchets and Strap Loops - 13' # TH855XT. You will also need two more straps to secure the kayak to the roof such as CargoBuckle Cam Buckle Tie-Down Straps w/ S-Hooks - 1" x 6' # IMF12637 or etrailer Cam Buckle Cinch Straps w/ Buckle Protectors - 1" x 13' # E98876-4.

expert reply by: Andrew N