Can Two Hullavators be Used if Roof Rack Weight Rating is Exceeded

Updated 10/11/2021 | Published 10/09/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Hull-A-Port Aero Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Channel Mount

(31)

$379.95

Thule DockGlide Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount

(25)

$299.95

Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount

(114)

$899.95

Question:

I want to put two hullavators on my 2021 Telluride. I have the 60 inch Yakima Ridgeline roof rack. Each kayak weights 49 lbs. I will be a little over the dynamic weight guidelines, but not by much. Will this be a problem when driving?

asked by: Dick S

Expert Reply:

I can't recommend you exceed the 165 weight limit of your roof rack, which you would go over by 15 lbs with the combined weight of 100 lbs for your kayaks and two of the 40 lb Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier and Lift Assist # TH898.

It wouldn't instantly disintegrate or anything quite that dramatic, but the bars will become damaged, crack, and you could have a situation where the contents on top are flying off the car if the bars give. So the best option is two use one Hullavator # TH898 with a lighter carrier, the saddle-style Thule DockGlide Kayak Carrier # TH896, or J-style Thule Hull-A-Port Aero Kayak Carrier # TH849000.

The DockGlide Kayak Carrier # TH896 weights just 7 lbs, and the Hull-A-Port # TH849000 weighs just 13 lbs so even with your kayaks and the Hullavator you will be under the 165 lb weight limit.