Yakima Permanent Rack System

Looks great. I'm starting to look at racks, but probably won't need one until next summer. Thanks to you and darelldd, the landing pads might become my top choice now. Good idea having the bike shop do the install. I'll have to keep that in mind.

 

Looks pretty sexy... how easy is it to put the rack on the landing pads?

Also, i can say for sure that my Saris rack can hold more than 100 lbs. i don't know what it's rated at, but it's had two kayaks on it at once, each weighing somewhere around 70 lbs.

 

Looks good. I talked to Darrelldd about the landing pads too and did buy a set of #7's .. when I went to the local shop for the install I changed my mind though and had them put on Yakima tracks which I feel are stronger .. so if anyone is interested in my landing pads send me a note ($40 or BO for 2 sets (4)).

 

It's not the bars that determine the weight that is safe to load, but the roof of the vehicle. I'd have to check our fit book at work (I've worked for REI for 13 years and we sell *tons* of racks) to see, but I would guess the Q-Clips *might* hold more because they are mounted at the exact corners of the roof which would be a stronger location than where the pads go. Basically, when they talk about the weight the system will hold, it's a question of Yakima and the manufacturer agreeing at a maximum amount that you can put up there and not dent your roof. You *could* load up more, but then you've voided any warrantees. The max recommended weight for any system is 165#.

I don't know what I'm going to do to carry my bikes now as only one will (barely) fit into the hatch. I really thought I'd be able to put a hitch on the rear until I read the owner's manual.

 

Looks great Tadashi! Warty Prii rule!

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(eagle33199 @ Sep 14 2006, 12:29 PM) [snapback]319657[/snapback]</div>

What the racks can hold and what they're rated for are totally different animals. I've had 300 pounds on my cross-bars for 1500 miles. No problem. I've carried a 70lb kayak and 250 pounds of cargo for 400 miles. NO problem. But the thing is rated for 100, so you take your own risks...

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(LMA @ Sep 15 2006, 07:07 PM) [snapback]320341[/snapback]</div>

Yes, the clip-on racks put the feet in a stronger spot, but I sure trust the bolt-on pads more than the clips. Call me crazy.

Huh? The owner's manual cautions you against using somebody else's motor oil too. Oh... and it clearly states not to ever exceed the posted speed limits. Really now, this is is NOT a reason to avoid using a rack on the back of the car. I (and many others) do, and it works great.

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(eagle33199 @ Sep 14 2006, 12:29 PM) [snapback]319657[/snapback]</div>

There is nothing - NOTHING easier than putting the cross bars on the pads. That's the whole point, and one of the biggest selling points of going this way. It is about as easy as buckling your seat belt. You literally plop the cross bar into the pads, and snap the lever up. Done. It takes longer to walk around the car snapping all four levers, than doing anything else. It is THAT easy.

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(rlh @ Sep 15 2006, 06:49 PM) [snapback]320335[/snapback]</div>

Have any pictures? I was really close to going with the tracks, but backed off at the last minute. Like you, but in reverse.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(darelldd @ Sep 15 2006, 11:14 PM) [snapback]320386[/snapback]</div>

Yes, but be careful of exhaust melting the bumper if you install a hitch. I looked back to stuff posted in July, and used it as a guide to make my own little exhaust deflector, and all has been smooth since. And towing a trailer with a sunfish aboard works very well, and the electric motor and traction control make the boat ramp a total breeze.

-Tony R (soccerdad)

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(soccerdad @ Sep 18 2006, 07:50 PM) [snapback]321484[/snapback]</div>

True for the U-Haul/Curt hitch... which should be redesigned shortly.