What Ladder Rack do You Recommend for Transporting a Canoe on My 2020 Toyota Tacoma 6-Foot Bed?

Updated 03/21/2022 | Published 03/19/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima KeelOver Canoe Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Gunwale Brackets - Clamp On

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$198.95

Question:

I want to carry a 14 canoe on my 2020 Toyota Tacoma with 6 bed and bed rails. I like the Yakima model but the Tacoma adapters are out of stock. Thule is another option, but I dont think the Thule system is as easy to uninstall e.g., when not hauling a boat. Is it hard to remove the Thule system? Do you have other recommendations?

asked by: James W

Expert Reply:

When you say that your 2020 Toyota Tacoma has bed rails, I am assuming you mean that your Tacoma has the Deck Rail system installed. Unfortunately, Yakima does not make a ladder rack that is compatible with your 6-foot bed with the Deck Rail system.

However, if you plan to install the ladder rack only when you transport a kayak on your truck, the Thule Thule Xsporter Pro Adjustable Height Truck Bed Ladder Rack - Aluminum - 450 lbs # TH500XTB-THXK4B is an amazing choice. The reason why its a great choice is because you have the ability to simply slide out the uprights from the feet for easy installation and removal. This way, you do not have to go through the headache of having to tighten and loosen t-clamps each and every time you go on your adventure. It is important to note that you have to remove the end caps at the bottom of the uprights to completely remove them. This is definitely the rack I recommend. I went ahead and attached a photo of the removable uprights in order to provide you with perspective.

For a canoe carrier that attaches to the crossbars of the Xsporter, I recommend the Yakima KeelOver # Y04069. The KeelOver fits perfectly to the Xsporter crossbars. You also receive the benefit of leaving the carrier installed on the crossbars when you remove the Xsporter uprights from the truck. As an added bonus, the KeelOver comes with all straps required to transport 1 Canoe.

expert reply by: Bob C