Kayak rack

I'm considering picking up a Diamondback SE, Front runner rack, and 2 kayak holders. Is anybody running this setup or something similar? I need ideas for a kayak carrying system. I have 2 12 footers. I can't really do a bed extender, because I will also be hauling a tiny camper.

 

Thule XSporter is what I have been running on my last 2 Tacos
Its versatile; lumber, Thule Cargo Box, Canoe, etc, and the adjustable height make it a no-brainer IMHO.
The only downside is with the 2nd and 3rd Gen Taco you can't adjust to the lowest setting, but it still goes low enough to have the crossbars at cab height.

 

I use one of these for my jackson kilroy. Skips the bed entirely. Ive been using it foe years with my xterra. Works well w the tacoma.

 

I can't use something like that that goes into the hitch receiver, I'll be towing a camper.

 

I wonder if there's a way to have this and a bed cover. I'll almost certainly need a bed cover. I don't know of any covers that leave the holes uncovered.

 

Doubtful, the Xsporter uses the OEM bed rail system that a typical tonneau cover also would need to attach to.
Maybe a Diamondback https://diamondbackcovers.com/produ...xKoHsjo8Lx5pW5lJdsQnbaQZEoIN_zexoCd3sQAvD_BwE in combination with bead rack.

 

That's what I've been thinking. I've been looking at the Diamondbacks, might have to just bite the bullet.

 

You might be able to post up and see if someone in your area has the setup or similar you're looking at. Always good to see in person prior to forking over large sums of cash.
Welcome to TW by the way, this forum is an excellent resource.

 

Might check that out!

 

I have the Yakima Overhaul system with the Retrax Pro XR cover. Great set up for me, I just remove my basket and raise the crossbars when I transport my canoes

 

I looked into this setup too. The main turn off is the Diamondback having the ability to add a toolbox. I also saw that the Yakima crossbars are hard to get right now.

 

yes there is. Yakima

I am looking at those too for my Pace Edwards ultra groove. What are the plastic feet/adaptors like. the reviews I read said they were lame.

 

I've had for a year & have had zero problems with.

 

I plan on getting this Thule rack for Kayaks

$1,150 Thule Xsporter PRO, Black, One Size

https://www.amazon.com/Thule-Xsporter-Pro-Truck-Rack/dp/B074ZZHT2F?th=1 I have crossbars on my pilot and had Thule Stackers and they've worked great for years able to carry 3 large kayaks easily, 4 is a stretch.

A bed extender also works great if you go that route.

 

This is how i do it.

 

Or you could just put them on the camper top. Rearward mounted they would reside in the low-pressure wind eddy caused by the massive inefficiency of the camper aerodynamics, producing less drag than if located on the truck, thereby reducing total wind resistance. They don't produce laminar flow located on the truck, rather increase it before the wind impacts the camper. Just thinking outside the box here.

Then, you have all that room on the truck conserved for other purposes.

 

Pace Edwards rolling/canister tonneau and "home made" or custom made rack

 

Very nice!

 

Thanks, If I was a welder or had at least welded since 1979, it would be nicer.....first time ever using a MIG welder versus the stick welder I used in college (Ag Eng 5 was the class).

 

Welding is on my list of things to learn.