(Part 3) Best vehicle sports racks & carriers according to redditors

check into something like this.

https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Summit-Solution-Traveller-Racks/dp/B005OTL11E?th=1&psc=1

I ran those on my BRZ. The large fit all the way across the roof and distributed the weight a little better than foam or noodles seemed to.

https://imgur.com/F15yYzj

You should be able to get going for $150 total.

I bought the $25 propel paddle from academy, works just fine. My kayak came with one but It seemed too short so I bought this one because it was about a foot longer.
http://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/no-limits-propel-94-kayak-paddle?repChildCatid=824204

PFD $25 walmart.

Milk crate from dicks sporting goods $10

Anchor $10

Rope $5

DIY rod holders - $4 for 10' of 2" pvc

Bungies assorted $5

You can get a kayak roof kit for $30 which is just some straps and a block of foam to protect your roof.

http://www.amazon.com/SportRack-Replacement-14-Inch-Kayak-Block/dp/B00BCLL4LA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451264836&sr=8-1&keywords=kayak+roof+foam

http://www.amazon.com/Roof-Kayak-Carrier-Foam-Blocks/dp/B00PCNIPBG/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1451264836&sr=8-4&keywords=kayak+roof+foam

I bought my kayak used and it came with a trailer - so I put a hitch on my car for $105 self installed. Euroball mount was $20. Registering the trailer was $28.

I wish we only had 5 to fit into our tiny apartment. Not pictured: 1 commuter bike...

https://i.imgur.com/5Z8Ybpn.jpg

Racks: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009ZN0OTK/

With just one kayak you can get away with some foam pads and straps. You don't necessarily need the foam pads, but they'll help you cinch the kayaks down properly to the car. You should be able to grab the edge of the kayak and rock the whole car if cinched down good.


Something like either of these:

https://amzn.com/B00PCNIPBG

or

https://amzn.com/B001OPO7O0


If you are going to be transporting two kayaks, then you'll want a kayak rack system of some sort to do without as much hassle.

This company makes some good affordable products:

http://www.packemracks.com/sportsmans.html

I this hitch and this rack for our CX-5

Yeah is a class III and overkill but you never know if you need to tow something.

This is a decent rack for the money, although in my case I had it for a month and ended up returning it for this one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01BMTTIPU/ref=sspa_mw_detail_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It’s been 100% worth the extra cost for me. Tilting the rack to open the trunk, built in locks, the way it folds up low and tight without blocking your backup camera, much sturdier construction, built in wheel straps all make a huge difference in day to day use.

I second the advice about not going too cheap on a rack as there are some features that make the whole loading/unloading routine so much quicker and easier.

You are looking for something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Rage-Powersports-Vehicle-Carrier-Blocks/dp/B00UCD9G8M/

Basically four foam blocks that go directly between the canoe's gunwales and the roof, and a couple of straps. Really you just need a strap (or rope) to connect the front of the canoe to the front two corners of the car, and a second strap (or rope) to connect from the rear of the canoe to the rear corners of your car.

I've carried canoes that way on lots of different cars, no roof racks required. With the Fit, just be careful when putting the canoe on and off that you don't hit your antenna.

Also, installing roof racks won't invalidate your warranty. By law, aftermarket components do not cancel warrenties; they can deny repairing problems caused directly by the component, but that's it. So like, if your roof racks scratch the paint, they won't repair the paint, but they can't claim the roof racks caused your engine to fail or something like that.

It's the sea to summit soft roof rack in size large. I can't say enough good things about it. It attaches in less that 3 minutes and I can have my kayak on and strapped down in less than 10. It can also then be strapped down to anyone elses car in the same amout of time so if a buddy wants to take their car we can put both kayaks on top and be out the door in the same amout of time.

Edit: Forgot to say that the ratching straps do not come with it so you will have to pick those up some where else.

TLDR: Awesome rack here is a link.
https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Summit-Solution-Traveller-Large/dp/B005OTL11E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466260614&sr=8-1&keywords=sea+to+summit+roof+rack

We have a couple [Delta Michelangelo 2 Rugged] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009ZN0OTK) stands and they work really well. The Michelangelo Canaletto looks to be about the same but quite a bit cheaper.

They're neat in that they lean against your wall; the weight of the bikes keeps them stable. You can tack them to the wall with an included nylon strap if need be, but we've never bothered to.

Look into these, they work well

Also now considering just slapping one of these rear tire mount ones on, locking the bike to the spare tire rack, and calling it a day.

https://www.amazon.com/Allen-Sports-Deluxe-2-Bike-Mounted/dp/B00XLKVLYU/


Edit: added forgotten link.

I have this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0171A6MSU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It opens with the door. Holds my bike fine, and has a cable lock. Leaves my receiver hitch for whatever, basket or trailer.

Here's a link to amazon where I ordered them:

RockyMounts LoBall Track quick release bike rack pick up truck https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019709IBU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2TYaBbVCRKBA4

I'm not entirely sure about your question, to be honest. I am new to bikes. Based on some of the "questions answered" on Amazon, it sounds like it might not work for a thru axel bike, but they may sell an adapter or different mount for that.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009QRWLNC/ref=cm_sw_r_taa_8RwtybF9RRQ7X


I use this on my 14. Has been really solid. Use it to haul skis and bikes mostly but have also used it to buy a Christmas tree, a 8ft step ladder, and sheet of plywood (separate occasions). It doesn't make any noise at speed and I can remove/install it in a few minutes by myself.

I bought an Inno IN-FR rack about 2 years ago to use on my Vibe. I've had my Crosstrek for 2 months now and it works just as well as it did on my Vibe. Much cheaper option than Thule or Yakima and still durable, strong, and easy to put on/take off. I also really like that it comes with locks built in. I'm honestly not sure what size my rails are. I ordered from ORS Racks Direct and just chose the "Choose bars for me" option and they picked out the right size based on the make/model/year of my car. I had a coupon at the time so they came to $185

http://www.orsracksdirect.com/inno-in-fr-car-rack-system.html

Not sure what you're planning on carrying, but I also purchased these foldable kayak carriers that have worked great (although I only paid $75 for them)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00710CR6W/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I drive a Subaru Impreza and am able to fit my Transition Scout (Large, 27.5) in the back with the seats folded down, but just barely.

I ended up getting a Thule T2 Pro XT 2 rack, though, and absolutely love it.

I bought a Capstone which in made of steel and requires a 2" hitch so it is a bit heavy. I've put around a 1000 miles on with not a hint of trouble carrying 2 ebikes. They have fixed the swing down lock so it no longer self releases. My only minor issue is that you have to carry a ratchet wrench to remove the hitch, but it sure doesn't wobble.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1304WW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

There a few brands that sell similar styled racks. It looks most like this Capstone branded rack.
https://www.amazon.com/Capstone-Hitch-Mount-Bike-Carrier/dp/B01N1304WW?ref_=bl_dp_s_web_2586780011

I use this.

Apex Vehicle Roof Canoe Carrier Foam Blocks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UCD9G8M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FDVmDbCE6HTK0

Lol, I wish they had the Uganda Style rack at the store when I went today. Unfortunately they were out of stock. I currently lease so damage to the top would not be ideal for the return, but I just struggle to have to shell out over $200 per bar. Any experiences with these...

https://www.amazon.com/MALONE-50-INCH-VERSARAIL-BARE-ROOF-CROSS-RAIL/dp/B01KH46TDU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498521287&sr=8-1&keywords=bare+roof+racks

I use the Malone versarails, they work extremely well. I have the 58 inch ones but they also sell a smaller and cheaper 50 inch.
Malone VersaRail Bare Roof Cross Rail System (50") https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KH46TDU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.frrDbYZ5KA1Z

This is going to depend on the rack. I suggest using a rack that doesn't put a strut on the centerline of your vehicle; usually this results in a big heavy bar blocking the view through the camera.

This style tends to work better:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N1GURYY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T2_Tt4Ezb3QS677A

Also, consider getting roof-rails instead. You can easily find cross-rail adapters to carry your bikes. This approach is secure, and will not obstruct the view through the backup camera or access to your trunk. Just be sure to remove the bikes before parking in a garage.

i ordered it today! I just have to figure out if i want a flush hitch for $200 more or just one that sits right under the fender.

i went with this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1GURYY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought this hitch Curt
And this Rack

They are working out great. There is an add on for the Thule racks to support up to 4 bikes just look at their site for more info. YouTube has plenty of videos for installing the hitch if you plan to do it yourself. That’s what I did and it was really very easy to do.

I'd recommend a hitch bike rack. Kind of something like this

Thule 9035XTB T2 Pro XT 2 Bike (1.25") Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N53XNOK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_yhG9BbGY0D796

It just comes down to what you drive to be honest and on how conveniente you want it to be. I personally have no experience with trunk racks. At times a hitch rack can get in the way if you're trying to get to the trunk but also depends on what you drive. I also have a "sea sucker" roof rack that works well but I'm not sure if they have adapters for fat bikes. Hope this helps!

I picked up a thule t2 pro xt for a heck of a deal. It's been perfect so far. Doesn't touch the frame, and holds my heavy bike over some severely rough roads.

If you're not in a hurry and have a REI store within reasonable distance, check out their garage sale dates. There were several at mine with 'missing hardware' or scratches. $500 rack for $49. Couldn't believe it.

https://www.amazon.com/Thule-T2-Pro-Bike-Rack/dp/B01N5QGW20

SportRack 2-Bike Lock and Tilt Platform Hitch Rack - Granite Gray by SportRack http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B1SI03Y/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_r7Petb1WZ8TBT

Looks like they have raised the price since I bought it but there are other similar models to choose from for a good price. Only thing is recommend with getting the hitch is to have it professionally installed since it requires drilling into the frame of the car and you will get a warranty for the work so your not screwed if you make any mistakes installing yourself.

I have a Saris Bones 3 and it gets the job done just fine. Saris has a trunk rack made for just one bike or two, I'd recommend the 2 since you're never going to need all three, but apparently the solo is not compatible with the miata, I haven't tried however. I believe it has a lifetime warranty and is made in the USA however you can often find them on Craigslist... I've be wary though, they're often stolen.

Just make sure you wrap the footies (contact points) in socks, they will rub and scratch the paint after a while, especially on the bumpers. I also recommend positioning the pedal closest to the car to not rub on the paint, because it will. I position it to be where the license plate is and its fine.

I prefer to take the front wheel off as well, as it hangs right behind the exhaust.

roof rack. the roof rack (or rails) runs front to back, cross bars run across. neither Yakima or Thule make a roof rack for your car, so you're going to be stuck with a generic rack. Maybe something like this or this.

Ideally, you get a roof rack and cross bars. Canoes don't use J-racks. You could just use foam blocks and ratchet straps, but it's sketchy if you're going too fast or far. I've made 400 mile trips using foam blocks, but you got to be sure and tie it down well and use bow and stern lines.

Here's a great expanation of how to tie it down. It's worth buying the hood tie down things, $7 on Amazon.

17' canoe is heavy unless it's composite. there's some videos of best ways to load them solo.

I've owned two Blackburn EX-1s. I foolishly sold one with the matching kid's seat, but the other has seen near daily commuting use for five years. I love everything about it, with one exception: it has no place to mount a rear tail light. It's light, made from bar stock rather than tubes, and despite constant heavy use, it has held up great. I've used it for a bit of bike-packing as well and have probably exceeded the 40lb max many times without issue.

I also unfortunately own this POS. I bought it to replace the EX-1 I sold and it is not worth even half the $25 I paid for it. It's constructed from tubes instead of bar stock and has the wide, flat plate on top. As a result, it bangs and clangs with every single bump. It was on my wife's bike for a while, and she could sometimes be heard from half a block away. It also mounts using aluminum spacers, resulting in a less solid rack that can sway and jiggle (just a little) when loaded. The tubes are thick enough that some panniers aren't able to be mounted without modification. The only good thing about it is that I can mount a taillight to the little tab that hangs off the back.

For rear racks, the #1 thing I would look for is one constructed from bar stock. Tubes simply make too much noise. I would avoid the flat plate on top as well unless you're buying from a B&M store where you can bang your hand on the rack to see how much noise it makes. Mount points on the rear for a taillight would be a huge plus. If Blackburn made one like the EX-1 with a mount, I'd buy one in a heartbeat. Aluminum is obviously lighter than steel and perfectly OK for your uses; most of the steel ones are intended for long-haul touring where they can be welded if they break. Look for a rack that can mount without spacers for a more secure attachment.

I own this Nashbar front rack, which seems to be a clone of this Blackburn rack. For the price, it's worth it, but I had to modify mine to fit 35mm knobby tires. I also needed spacers to mount it, which the rack did not come with. My fork has mount points in the middle of the blades, so I can't comment on how well it mounts using the U clamps.

I've never used a front rack that holds the panniers up higher, but I'd be hesitant to buy one (unless it could be returned at no cost) without trying it first. The lower the load, the lower your center of gravity. Having a higher center of gravity can change your handling dramatically. I would also be extremely hesitant to buy a front rack that did not have a cross bar for stability (like this one). My first time out using the front rack, I put my floppier set of panniers up front, and my handling was so bad it was dangerous. I swapped them, learned my lesson, and wouldn't dare set out with any load in the front that could possibly sway.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MXQA1E/ref=wms_ohs_product_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Not currently available. I'm pretty sure they were less than 20 bucks shipped. I didn't know if I would like having panniers up front so I didn't want to spend a lot of money.

These had great reviews and I'm pretty dang impressed, especially since they were so inexpensive.

Here is the mobile version of your link

ROLA 59768 Removable Mount GTX Series Roof Rack for Ford Fiesta Hatchback https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009QRWLNC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_D8CCybV3AVA2H

Here's the one for your car.

you could use something like this. https://www.amazon.com/RockyMounts-LoBall-Track-quick-release/dp/B019709IBU/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&keywords=locking+bicycle+fork+mount&qid=1571923924&sr=8-9

i have something similar for my fat bike and wife's bike with my utilitrack but i haven't upgraded to locking ones yet.

here is what my set up looks like https://i.imgur.com/mAO5R9R.jpg

I just got this today. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00B1SI03Y/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?ref_=pe_385040_121528360_TE_dp_1

The top rack works great and I never had any issues with it. The only downsides are you can't see the bike when you're driving and you need to be careful you don't drive under something too low. I just needed a rack that could hold 2 bikes and already have a hitch on the car so I got that one.

I have this on my Fiat 500 - Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TRTS0JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_U6vyzbNMQPFSB

I have a cheap folding bike rack that I previously bought for my Honda CRV. Cost $50 and works just fine. It does take some extra time to get the bikes on the rack vs the fancier (and expensive) racks. Also, it does set off the backup camera "alerts" however I can still see just fine. The real bonus is that it folds up into almost nothing so it's very easy to store (I actually keep it in the trunk when I'm not using it-- just in case). Quoted prices in my area are about $280 for a hitch + install and the nice bike racks are easily $400. I'd rather spend that money on other things. Here's the rack I have if anyone is interested:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TRTS0JS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You can get the Saris Solo for about $65

http://www.amazon.com/Saris-Solo-Single-Bike-Rack/dp/B003COAZ7O

I got a spare-tire mounted car rack (like this except mine was used) and bolted it to the wall in the garage with masonry anchors. I keep two steel tandems on it (and I have the other wall lined with half bikes.)