Do I need an Aftermarket roof rack for 2 kayaks?

[Forrest_J]

Hello all,

I just picked up a 08 CX7 ST last week and I really enjoy it so far. However, even after reading all the roof rack posts I could find here I am still a little confused. Long story short...... I see that the factory roof rack is only rated to 100lbs. Well I am wanting to put two kayaks on top that "empty" weight 65-75lbs each. So my thought was that I need to find a yakima rail system or some other that will handle more weight. When I search on their site I cant tell how these mounting systems work. Do they mount in the factory holes on the roof or is it something else that's going to scratch everything all up? Also I cant even tell if their roof rails are rated higher to handle 2 yaks.

Anyway, I was just trying to find a few people who have dealt with this and might have a few suggestions.
Thanks

 

[Alpha Wolf]

Not sure. Size or weight.

I have had over 100lbs on my roof rack Mazda.

Not sure about 150lbs and the room needed for two kayaks.

 

[wstruth]

Hi

I did some research on the Thule rack system for my kayaks for the CX-7, since I have used a Thule rack on a few of my other cars. The Thule does use the factory holes with a fit kit. I ended up going with the Mazda rack mostly because I had problems finding the Fit Kit for the Thule and there is/was a recall on it as well, and the Mazda racks look better. With Thule the rails are rated for four kayaks and although I have recreational kayaks that each weigh less than yours I have had four on the rails with no problem at all.

The support posts for the Thule system do have an overall weight limit so when you research your rack check out the associated documentation. I had to look up the pdf's on the instructions to find the info. I am planning on using the Stacker by Thule to tie up the Kayaks, again since I already have it, but Yakima sells a similar product that is also made for factory racks.
Bill

 

[kayaker777]

so I also saw the Thule rack adaptor recall on the bolts..... I am going to buy, but all posts are all over the place on the flimsyness of the factory racks.
Would not the racks post recal from Thule be packaged with the correct hardware?
I would rather go with factory on the racks (for my mazda3) but 2 kayaks would be at the edge of the weight limit (48lbs each)..
but if i go with the Thule racks....i have to worry about sheer strength on bolts made out of eggshells

any advice?

 

[Alpha Wolf]

so I also saw the Thule rack adaptor recall on the bolts..... I am going to buy, but all posts are all over the place on the flimsyness of the factory racks.

(headshake


Interesting statement since I have not seen any posts anywhere regarding the flimsiness of the factory racks. (gossip)

I have had my Thule Pod 72 in loaded with well over 100lbss and had no issues.(naughty)

No squeaks, no movement, no breakage