Can A Yakima BaseLine Roof Rack Carry A Kayak At Highway Speeds?
Updated 08/11/2026 | Published 08/07/2026
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Question:
I saw the Yakima car racks for Avalon and I had a question regarding if they are strong enough for a kayak? Traveling at 70 miles plus with all the wind drag, I imagine the racks would have to be very secure. Too what point might there be an issue regarding a kayak? I have an ocean kayak that is about 11 feet less than 50 pounds. thank you
asked by: David F
Expert Reply:
Hey David, thanks for reaching out. Yes, the Yakima BaseLine roof rack # Y75CB is absolutely strong enough to carry your 11-foot, sub-50 lb Ocean Kayak on your 2020 Toyota Avalon at normal highway speeds. That's exactly the kind of load the system is designed for. As long as the rack is installed correctly, the kayak is secured with quality straps and bow/stern tie-downs, and you stay within the roof load rating for your Avalon, traveling at 70+ mph isn't a problem.
A 50 lb kayak is well within the capabilities of the rack. Yakima's BaseLine system has a maximum dynamic load rating of 165 lbs, although your vehicle's roof rating may be lower, so you always go by the lower of the two. Your 11-foot Ocean Kayak is a great match for this setup, and I don't have any concerns carrying it with the proper kayak carrier and bow/stern tie-downs.
For a kayak carrier with tie-downs, here is what I recommend:
- Thule Hull-A-Port XTR Kayak Roof Rack - J-Style - Folding # TH34FR39AB
Whereabouts do you usually kayak?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Yakima BaseLine Roof Rack for Naked Roofs - JetStream Crossbars - Aluminum - Silver - Qty 2
- Roof Rack
- Crossbar Rack
- Aero Bars
- 50 Inch Bar
- 2 Bars
- Overhang
- Silver
- Yakima
more information >
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