Outback on a Rav4
 

Hello, I just have a quick question. I just bought my wife an Hobie outback and she has a Toyota Rav4 with factory rack and crossbars. Do I need to buy one of those kayak holders that was suggested to me by the dealer? Or can I put it right on top of the factory roof rack without any issues? Thanks in advance.

Usually the factory rack weight isnt very good, you may want to check the factory specs on the crossbars, if you have the money I would recommend getting the aftermarket racks it made my life so much easier after I got my aftermarket racks.

Minimum I would do is a kayak pad.

I've got a Thule Slipstream on my RAV4 and it works pretty well for my xFactor.

I've also attached Thule hullaport J-bars directly to the factory racks with no issues. I always tie the front down securly.

If you don't want to spend loads on pads and such. You can go to your local Walmart store, and buy the jumbo pool noodle. Then slice the noodle in half (so the pool noodle wraps around the factory cross bars) and you're good to go.

What he said.I don't have a Rav4 or Outback.I have a 4Runner and a ride135.
Large pool noodle from Walmart I didn't have to cut in half though.I slit it on one side and
it slides on the cross bar and fits like a glove.Bow and stern tie down and I'm good to go.Several trips to Mammoth,and all the way to Oregon w/o issue!!!
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j2...IMG_0712-2.jpg

Thanks, I appreciate all of the input