Crossbar System for 2 Kayaks on a 2022 Mazda CX-5 with a Bare Roof

Updated 04/25/2022 | Published 04/24/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 46" Long - Qty 2

(2754)

$239.98

etrailer Cable Lock - 10' Long - 5/16" Diameter - Steel - Keyed Alike

(225)

$46.02

Custom RCP Fit Kit for 4 Rhino-Rack RC and RV Series Roof Rack Legs - Fixed Mounting Points

(299)

$139.99

Question:

Purchasing a 2022 Mazda CX-5 that has nothing on top. Should I have the dealer install the rails at least and get both rack and roof rails from you or leave as is and get everything from you? Looking for the cleanest way to be able to carry two kayaks

asked by: Nelson

Helpful Expert Reply:

For transporting 2 kayaks on your 2022 Mazda CX-5, we have great roof racks that work with your naked roof to achieve your goal. It is not necessary to install aftermarket rails to the roof. Also, from my available specs on your vehicle, you have fixed mounting points on your bare roof. Fixed mounting points are small locations on the side of your roof where you can directly bolt on a roof rack system,. These points are usually covered with a small plastic tab that can be removed to access the bolt holes. I always recommend using these bolt holes over roof racks that utilize door jamb clips because they provide you with a more secure setup.

For a great setup that uses your fixed mounting points, I recommend the following roof rack:

- Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars # RRVA118B-2
- RCL Legs for Rhino-Rack Crossbars and Pioneer Platforms - Fixed Mounting Points # RRRCL4
- Custom RCP Fit Kit for 4 Rhino-Rack RC and RV Series Roof Rack Legs - Fixed Mounting Points # RRRCP48-BK

Not only do you receive a roof rack that utilizes fixed mounting points, you also receive the benefit of an extremely aerodynamic system that ultimately leads to a quieter ride and greater fuel efficiency. With the Vortex Aero crossbars, you receive 165 pounds of maximum weight capacity. As with all roof racks, I recommend consulting with your Mazda owner's manual to make sure your roof can accommodate the weight you wish to transport. I went ahead and attached a video that shows a similar Rhino-Rack setup that uses fixed mounting points on a 2016 model CX-5.

For the kayak carrier, I recommend the Rhino-Rack 2 Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding # S512-S512X. Not only does this carrier attach perfectly to the Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero crossbars, it also comes with 4 cam buckle straps and 4 bow/stern ties to completely secure your 2 kayaks. To add theft deterrence, the best way to do so is to use the etrailer cable lock # e98891 to loop through the cradles and lock around the crossbars.