Roof Rack for 2013 Mazda 3 Five Door to Carry a Rowing Shell

Updated 06/24/2014 | Published 06/21/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack Heavy-Duty Roof Rack Crossbars - Black - 50" Long - Qty 2

(194)

$208.98

Custom DK Fit Kit for 4 Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Roof Rack Legs - Fixed Mounting Points

(293)

$129.99

etrailer Kayak Tie-Down Kit

(62)

$39.11

Malone Canoe Carrier with Tie-Downs - Foam Block Style - 6" Long

(16)

$40.95

Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars - Naked Roofs or Fixed Mounting Points - Qty 4

(8964)

$234.99

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

(2754)

$227.98

Hood Loops for Thule Bow/Stern Tie-Downs - Qty 2

(29)

$39.95

Question:

I am looking for a reasonably quiet roof rack to carry a rowing shell which is about 24 feet long and approx 24 inches wide and weighs about 45 lbs. I am also interested in being able to take the rack off during the Winter when not being used. I am unclear as to the various choices. I want reasonably aerodynamic and reasonably quiet but strong enough to handle this long shell which will extend beyond fron and back of car and requires me to put the shell right onto the roof rack and then travel with it in residential areas.

asked by: David H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The most cost effective and aerodynamic (thus quiet) roof rack would be a Rhino Rack system, that would consist of the following:

44 inch Silver Vortex Aero Crossbars # RRVA118S-2 (also available in black as # RRVA118B-2)
Leg Kit # RRRLKVA
Vehicle Specific Fit Kit for vehicles with fixed roof mounted attachment points, # DK289

The rack would be easily removable when needed. Rather than resting your rowing shell directly on the crossbars, I'd recommend using a foam block system like the Malone # MPG156. The foam block system is designed for canoes, but would work well for your rowing shell. The carrier provides bow/stern tie downs, but I'd also recommend the Thule Hood Loops, part # TH529. The quick loops can be shut in the hood and rear hatch, and would provide a quick spot to connect the tie-downs without scratching the vehicle. You could also consider the etrailer tie-down kit # e36ZR which comes with additional straps and foam anchors that can close inside of your hood or hatch.