Surf Racks and Surfboards

[rr-merlin]

Anybody put surfboards on the roof of their CX-5? Looking to buy the 2014 tonight and wanted some input. With boards on the roof, long boards, can you open the rear hatch at all with that spoiler?

 

[rjdee]

The spoiler will contact the boards very early when opening the hatch. An aftermarket crossbar system, Yakima, Whispbar, Thule will give you a 1-2" extra height and allow you to open the hatch further but no much. My spoiler has a bunch of scratches on it from hitting kayaks and boards. I can open it enough to grab a few items but I usually strap the board on after I put all the gear in back.

 

[snadboy]

You can't really open it that much, maybe half-way depending on the over hang of your board. It is easier just to access the back from the back seat either fold it down prior or after. I generally load the car 1st and board last and its the 1st to come off if I need access. I can also loosen the straps on my carrier and slide the board forward if needed and back before I hit the road, but the board still touches the hatch depending on the length of your board.

I use an Inno Racks SUP/Kayak/Canoe Locker with Board Pads and standard rails. It carries 2-3 surfboards in board bags, 1-2 SUP and long boards as well as a kayak or canoe. It is very versatile. I like the fact that it locks up as well so if dining out after a catching a set I don't have to worry about someone swiping the boards. I am able to carry an 11'4" SUP with no additional tie downs and a friends 14' racing SUP. I really like the easy unload and loading of boards - just release the tension slide the board(s) through from the back and ratchet it down. Rinse repeat. They are also quieter than the Thule and Yakima ones I had in the past.

 

[rimsy]

I've had an 8foot mini mal on my roof (sat naked on thule wingbar edge) and the lesson learnt was - pack boot first and board last!
I was more concerned with the board hitting the aerial fin but there was around 1cm of clearance.

 

[Jonesey]

Yes. I use my CX5 and load two boards on it frequently. My 6 ' 2" up to a 7' Fish - both fit fine and I can open the hatch completely. I have Rhino Racks

 

[vanwyk4257]

I carry a 10'6 SUP on my roof with a Yakima control tower setup. I can only open the hatch part of the way without contacting the board.