Question:
2017 Mercedes GLS450 with raised side rails. 1 will 2 hullavators sets fit on 60” cross bars? 2 does thule make 60” aero bars that will fit my vehicle? 3 can you recommend best aero bar solution.
asked by: Ben L
Expert Reply:
Two sets of Hullavators # TH898 require at least 57" of bar space and a high weight capacity for roof rack weight plus kayak weight plus 80 lbs of Hullavator weight. So, yes, they will fit on 60" cross bars.
The Thule Roof Rack that fits your car consists of 53" Thule Wingbar Evo Crossbars # TH711420 and Thule Evo Raised Feet # TH710401. Unfortunately, that does not fit two sets of Hullavators and I do not recommend using larger bars since Thule specifically adapts the selected load bar width, feet and fit kit for the vehicle.
I recommend a Yakima Roof Rack system with 60" Yakima JetStream Crossbars # Y00426 and TimberLine Towers # Y33TR. This system has a weight capacity of 165 lbs. Since the roof load of your Mercedes-Benz is 220 lbs, we will follow the lesser of the two: 165 lb. The JetStream Crossbars are Yakima's Aero-style bars and are designed to be aerodynamic, low-profile, and quiet. I attached a video showing the install process on another SUV with raised side rails.
Evo Raised Rail Feet for Thule Crossbars - Factory Raised Rails - Qty 4
Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 53" Long - Qty 2
Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount
TimberLine Towers for Yakima Crossbars - Raised, Factory Side Rails - Qty 4
Yakima JetStream Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 60" Long - Qty 2