How to Tell if 2 Thule Compass Kayak and SUP Carriers Will Fit on Crossbars

Updated 06/30/2022 | Published 06/26/2022

Question:

What is the length of the clamp section of the rack? Interested to see if I can fit two on my roof as saddles.

asked by: Robert K

Expert Reply:

The crossbar clearance requirement for the Thule Compass Kayak and SUP Carrier w/ Tie-Downs # TH890000 is 16-1/2" since 1 of the saddles and the upright arm can be hanging over the outside edge of your crossbars. As long as you have 33" of usable crossbar space on your 2013 Kia Sportage roof rack you'll be able to fit 2 of these.

Keep in mind that fitting 2 of the Compass carrier and fitting 2 of your kayaks side by side are 2 different things. The Compass may fit but if your kayaks are wider then they may not physically fit on the Compass properly if you plan on carrying them using the saddle configuration.

Attached is a review video of the Compass as well as a photo of the measurement I took to show the clearance required.

expert reply by: Jon G