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Most affordable J-bar kayak carrier on the market
Last reviewed: April 2026
At a glance
Why this product
The single TMS J-bar is the cheapest way to J-cradle a kayak on your roof. 75 lb capacity, padded arms, 8 lbs. Build quality is basic and the padding wears faster than premium brands. Good enough for a first kayak rack or occasional use — when you outgrow it, you will know what features you actually want in the upgrade.
Detailed specs
| Carrying Style | J Cradle |
| Max Kayaks | 1 |
| Max Canoes | 0 |
| Max Boat Weight | 34 kg |
| Load Assist | No |
| Padding Included | Yes |
| Straps Included | Yes |
| Bow/Stern Lines Included | No |
| SUP Compatible | No |
| Surfboard Compatible | No |
| Rack Weight | 3.6 kg |
| Adjustable Angle | No |
Best prices
| Retailer | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon US | Check price | Check availability | Check Price |
Disclosure: MyCargoRacks.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Disclosure: MyCargoRacks.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Budget J-bar kayak carrier for 1 kayak. Universal crossbar fit. Simple design, great value.
Price may vary. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Performance analysis
vs. average in kayak_canoe_rack
Price vs. score for all kayak_canoe_rack
Fitment
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tahoe(5th Gen) | 2021+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escape(4th Gen) | 2020+ | good |
Community feedback
Based on 1881 reviews
Alternatives
Most relevant alternatives to TMS J-Bar Kayak Rack (1 pair)
Crossbars needed |
| Explorer(6th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| CR-V(6th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| CR-V(5th Gen) | 2017–2022 | good | Crossbars needed |
| Pilot(4th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Fe(5th Gen) | 2024+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Tucson(4th Gen (NX4)) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee(WL) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telluride(1st Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Sportage(5th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rogue(3rd Gen (T33)) | 2021+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outback(6th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Forester(5th Gen (SK)) | 2019–2024 | good | Crossbars needed |
| Crosstrek(3rd Gen) | 2024+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Forester(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Y(1st Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corolla Cross(1st Gen) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| 4Runner(5th Gen (N280)) | 2010–2024 | good | Crossbars needed |
| Highlander(4th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| RAV4(5th Gen (XA50)) | 2019–2024 | good | Crossbars needed |
| 4Runner(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| RAV4(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars needed |