Roof Rack For Carrying Thule Hullavator On A 2023 Subaru Outback With Factory Fold-Away Crossbars

Updated 06/01/2026 | Published 05/25/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 53" Long - Qty 2

(1278)

$279.95

Fit Kit for Thule Evo Flush Rail and Edge Flush Rail Roof Rack Feet - 6157

(363)

$159.95

Evo Flush Rail Feet for Thule Crossbars - Flush Side Rails - Qty 4

(240)

$264.95

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

(121)

$899.95

Question:

I have a 2023 subaru outback limited with factory fold away crossbars. Can I take these off and add a Thule crossbar to accommodate the hullivator lift system for kayaks?

asked by: Mark W

Expert Reply:

Hey Mark, thanks for reaching out. Yep, you can remove the factory folding crossbars on your 2023 Subaru Outback, but you can't just bolt Thule bars directly in their place. The factory bars are integrated into the raised side rails, so to run a Hullavator you'll need a complete aftermarket roof rack system that attaches to those raised rails.

That said, we do have a roof rack setup that will work great for carrying a Hullavator # TH898 on your Subaru. Here are the exact part numbers:

- Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 53" Long - Qty 2 # TH711420

- Evo Flush Rail Feet for Thule Crossbars - Flush Side Rails - Qty 4 # TH710601

- Fit Kit for Thule Evo Flush Rail and Edge Flush Rail Roof Rack Feet - 6157 # TH37CE

Those 3 parts combined make up the full roof rack system. The 53" crossbars will extend far enough past the towers to safely use the lift assist without contacting the side of the car.

What kind of kayak are you carrying?