Kayak rack for VW Roofbars - wanted

ymfb · Jul 15, 2015

Hi,

I looking to carry two single kayaks on our 2013 Cali, we have the VW roof bars.

previously we had a double kayak and I was able to load it from the back on my own by lifting one end and parking it on the rear roof bar, then picking up the other end of the kayak and walk it towards the van until it was positioned equally.

Has anyone bought something to secure a pair of kayaks onto the VW roof bars ?

bvirc · Jul 16, 2015

I use Thule setup - a simple and effective solution Thule Rapid racks + kayak support 520-1...
You need a ladder for loading / unloading, but otherwise works great.

ymfb · Jul 16, 2015

bvirc, do the Thule racks fit the VW bars or is your set-up entirely Thule ?

bvirc · Jul 22, 2015

Sorry for my late reply... It is an all-Thule system. I've found Thule components much more flexible than original VW bars and other stuff.
However, check some of those, maybe they fit to your bars: http://www.palmequipmenteurope.com/products?f[0]=field_web_category:Transport

Best, Bostjan

MattBW · Aug 27, 2015

Just looking for some bars to carry a Bic Trinidad, looks like Thule is the better option here.

BarryC · Jul 20, 2016

I'm thinking of getting the Thule Sliding System - anyone have any experience with it? I imagine I'd only be able to slide it out on one side due to the awning..?

MattBW · Jul 20, 2016

I've just gone for a cheap RUK option for my VW roof bars, after months of looking I just couldn't justify the cost of the nicer systems for the amount of use it will get. Plan to install at the weekend and try it out.

The slide system looks very nice, mine is similar but a fraction of the price. I will let you know how we get on with it.

Archie · Jul 20, 2016

BarryC said:
I'm thinking of getting the Thule Sliding System - anyone have any experience with it? I imagine I'd only be able to slide it out on one side due to the awning..?

Barry we had the slider bars and they worked fine for us with tandem kayaks. They slide out both sides very easily. You need a foldable step ladder to fasten the kayaks on.
Sold ours to another member on here not long ago as we no longer have the kayaks. He may reply if he sees this and say how he is getting on with them.

BarryC · Jul 21, 2016

Archie said:
Barry we had the slider bars and they worked fine for us with tandem kayaks. They slide out both sides very easily. You need a foldable step ladder to fasten the kayaks on.
Sold ours to another member on here not long ago as we no longer have the kayaks. He may reply if he sees this and say how he is getting on with them.

Many thanks Archie - did you notice any rattling from the bars when they were loaded / without load? Cheers

Loz · Jul 21, 2016

Wouldn't you be better with something like this?

http://www.jerbacampervans.co.uk/campervan-feature/roof-rack-systems/

BarryC · Jul 21, 2016

Thanks Loz - I looked at that system but I think mostly I'll be using it for a roof box so it's better if it stays level when it slides out so stuff doesn't fall out of it.

ArunAlec · Jul 21, 2016

Loz said:
Wouldn't you be better with something like this?

http://www.jerbacampervans.co.uk/campervan-feature/roof-rack-systems/

I have one on my car and recently got one for the Cali. They are great but do weigh a bit, about 18kg. So it does reduce the weight of boat you can carry.

Archie · Jul 21, 2016

BarryC said:
Many thanks Archie - did you notice any rattling from the bars when they were loaded / without load? Cheers

No rattling, there is a tiny bit of lateral movement when unloaded due to the sliding movement but it's tight movement if you know what I mean.
They are an ugly lump of a thing so not the sort of thing you want to leave on when not in use, but do the job.
See attached photo.

MattBW · Apr 27, 2017

MattBW said:
I've just gone for a cheap RUK option for my VW roof bars, after months of looking I just couldn't justify the cost of the nicer systems for the amount of use it will get. Plan to install at the weekend and try it out.

The slide system looks very nice, mine is similar but a fraction of the price. I will let you know how we get on with it.

Should probably add this setup isn't really much use on a cali as it doesnt extend far enough out to be useful.