Carrying 3 Kayaks on a 2010 Volvo XC60 with Factory Roof Rack Made By Thule

Updated 08/19/2014 | Published 08/17/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Hull-A-Port Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Fixed - Clamp On

(58)

$199.95

Replacement Tie-Down Strap with Buckle for Thule Roof Mounted Watersport Carriers

(33)

$17.62

Replacement Rope for Thule Roof Mounted Watersport Carriers - 1/4" Diameter

(19)

$16.38

Thule Stacker Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Post Style - Folding - Clamp On

(66)

$229.95

Question:

I have a 2010 Volvo xc60 with OEM aluminum aero bars made by Thule for Volvo. I am trying to figure out the best way to carry 3 10-12foot kayaks on the rack. Would 1 TH830 for 2 kayaks 1 on each side of the stacker and 1 TH834 for 1 kayak be the best fit. With the stacker, I am concerned about the bar caving in the side of the kayak, is that an issue? There is about 37inch of bar between the drivers side and passenger side supports. Thanks

asked by: Tim L

Expert Reply:

Three kayaks would be a tight fit on the 37 inch bars on your 2010 Volvo XC60 but I think you can do it. But you would just use the Thule Stacker # TH830 since it handles up to 4 kayaks. The kayaks fit on either side of the bars so there isn't a way that it could damage the kayaks. And the kayaks are not going to weigh enough for the crossbars to damage the kayaks.

The only issue is that you need to check the roof rack and roof weight capacity in the owners manual and/or consult Volvo.

I also recommend an additional tie down strap, # 753-2030-02, and an additional support rope, # 853-5466.

expert reply by: Michael H