ARKSEN 2 Pack Universal Folding Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This arksen 2 pack universal folding review focuses on a roof rack system designed for kayaks and similar long gear. The product consists of two black steel racks that mount to your vehicle’s crossbars. Two key specs define this setup: a 160 lbs load capacity and a folding design that collapses for compact storage. The racks measure 19.7 inches in height and weigh 24.9 pounds for the pair. This guide explains how these specifications affect your daily use and transport needs.
What stands out
- Alloy steel tubing with 1.5mm thickness supports up to 160 lbs of gear
- Folds flat into a rectangle for easy trunk or back seat storage
- Foam padding and 3.0mm PVC base coating protect vehicles from scratches and rust
- Compatible with square, original, and aerodynamic crossbars, excluding round beams
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this rack if you own a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and need a durable, high-capacity solution. The 160 lbs limit handles heavy gear securely. The folding feature is ideal if you frequently store your vehicle in tight garages or want to save trunk space when not in use. It fits well with most modern crossbar styles, making it a versatile choice for families who transport water sports equipment regularly.
Who should skip it
Skip this option if your vehicle uses round crossbars, as the product data explicitly excludes them. You might also look elsewhere if you need included straps or anchors, as the base listing is for racks only. While the steel is thick, the folding mechanism adds complexity. If you prefer a simpler, single-piece rigid rack that mounts directly without hinges, this two-part system may not suit your preference for minimal assembly.
Verdict: This rack offers strong load capacity and convenient folding for specific crossbar types. It suits those who prioritize space-saving storage and heavy-duty steel construction for their water sports gear.
Key specs explained for this rack
Load Capacity: 160 lbs
This rack supports up to 160 lbs of gear. The thick alloy steel tubing allows for heavier loads than standard racks. You can transport larger kayaks or multiple boards safely. Check your vehicle’s roof limit to ensure you stay under both limits. This capacity suits most recreational kayakers carrying one or two vessels.
Mount Type: roof
This system attaches directly to your vehicle’s existing roof crossbars. It requires no drilling or permanent modification to your car. You simply clamp the bases onto the bars. This makes it easy to remove when not in use. It is ideal for renters or those who frequently switch vehicles.
Vehicle Compatibility: most crossbars except round beams
The bases fit square, oval, and aerodynamic crossbars. They do not work with round bars. Verify your bar shape before purchasing. If you have round bars, you may need adapters or a different rack. This compatibility covers most modern SUVs and crossovers with factory or aftermarket square bars.
Weight: 24.9 pounds
The two-pack rack set weighs 24.9 lbs total. This is moderate for a steel rack. It is sturdy enough to hold gear but light enough for one person to handle. The folding design allows you to store it flat in your trunk. This saves space when you are not transporting gear.
Design and build details
According to the listing, the racks are constructed from alloy steel tubing with a 22mm diameter and 1.5mm wall thickness. This is thicker than the standard 1mm found on many competitors. The increased material density supports the stated 160 lbs load capacity. The finish uses a painting technology designed to resist fading from summer sun and damage from winter snow. It is also described as corrosion and rust-resistant, which helps maintain structural integrity in wet conditions.
The system weighs 24.9 pounds and measures 17.7 inches in length, 19.7 inches in height, and 10.2 inches in width. The design allows the entire set to fold into a flat rectangle for storage. This feature lets you tuck the racks into a trunk or back seat when not in use. It also helps clear height restrictions when driving through garages without requiring disassembly. The layout is simple, consisting of two main parts that require only a screwdriver for assembly.
Foam padding covers the contact points to protect your kayak from scratches. The base includes a 3.0mm thick PVC coating on small iron sheets to prevent rust from contacting your vehicle’s paint. These racks fit most square, original, and aerodynamic crossbars. They do not fit round beams. You must verify your roof bar shape before purchasing to ensure compatibility.
Setup and everyday use guide
Installing this rack is straightforward. The listing states assembly requires only a screwdriver. You attach the two black steel units to your vehicle’s crossbars. This system fits most square, original, and aerodynamic beams. It does not fit round beams. You must verify your roof bar shape before mounting.
Once installed, the racks provide a stable base for long gear. The foam padding protects your kayak or paddleboard from the metal pipes. This padding has undergone 5,000 fatigue tests, suggesting durability during transport. The PVC-coated base prevents rust on your car’s roof. This protects your vehicle’s finish during daily use.
When you are not transporting gear, the racks fold flat. They collapse into a rectangle for easy storage. You can place the folded units in your trunk or back seat. This saves space when the racks are not in use. You can also keep them mounted if your garage has low clearance. The design maximizes upward space without requiring disassembly.
Everyday use involves securing your kayak, canoe, or surfboard to the padded arms. The 160 lbs capacity allows for heavier loads than standard racks. The alloy steel construction withstands summer sun and winter snow. The surface paint resists corrosion and rust. This makes the rack suitable for all weather conditions. The 24.9-pound weight of the two-pack is manageable for most users. You handle the setup once, then secure your gear for each trip.
Before you buy this rack
You need to verify your crossbar type before ordering. This system fits square, original, and aerodynamic beams. It does not fit round beams. Confirm your roof rack shape matches the mounting points. You should also check your vehicle’s roof weight limit. The rack supports 160 lbs, but your car may have a lower max load. Plan for securing gear. The listing offers variations with straps or anchors. You likely need tie-downs to hold the kayak firmly. Store the racks in a dry place when not in use. The powder coat resists rust, but moisture can still cause damage over time. Wipe them down after wet trips. This setup is ideal for occasional kayak transport. It is not a permanent cargo carrier. If you need daily storage space, consider a roof box instead. This rack is for specific gear, not general haulage.
Check before you buy
- Verify your crossbars are not round.
- Check your vehicle roof weight limit.
- Decide if you need straps or anchors.
- Ensure you have a screwdriver for assembly.
The product at a glance
ARKSEN 2 Pack Universal Folding Kayak Roof Rack
Best for: Kayak transport on non-round crossbars
- Mount Type
- roof
- Load Capacity
- 160 lbs
- Folding
- folds flat
- Vehicle Compatibility
- fits square, aero beams; not round
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck
- Use
- Kayak
View on Amazon: ARKSEN 2 Pack Universal Folding Kayak Roof Rack Affiliate link
This ARKSEN 2-pack roof rack set carries kayaks and paddleboards up to 160 lbs. It uses 1.5mm thick alloy steel tubing for durability and folds flat for easy storage. The 10.2-inch width fits most square, original, or aerodynamic crossbars, though it excludes round beams. Foam padding protects your gear from scratches. Weighing 24.9 pounds, it offers a sturdy solution for transporting water sports equipment.
Pros
- 160 lbs load capacity
- 1.5mm thick alloy steel tubing
- Folds flat for compact storage
- Foam padded anti-scratch design
Cons
- Does not fit round crossbars
- Straps and anchors sold separately
- Requires screwdriver for assembly
Good fit if
- You need to carry kayaks or paddleboards
- You have square or aerodynamic crossbars
- You want a rack that folds flat
Skip if
- Your car has round crossbars
- You need straps included in the box
- You want a single rack only
Verdict: ARKSEN 2 Pack Universal Folding Kayak Rack fits drivers with square or aerodynamic crossbars who need to transport heavy water sports gear. It is a solid option for those who value foldable storage and high load limits.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ARKSEN 2 Pack Universal Folding Kayak Roof Rack |
|---|---|
| Mount Type | roof |
| Load Capacity | 160 lbs |
| Folding | folds flat |
| Vehicle Compatibility | fits square, aero beams; not round |
| Vehicle Type | Car, SUV, Truck |
| Use | Kayak |
| Dimensions | 17.7 × 10.2 × 19.7 inches |
| Weight | 24.9 pounds |
| Size | Racks Only |
| Color | Black |
| Model | 005-TH-KCR2S |
Frequently asked questions
Does the ARKSEN 2 Pack fit round crossbars?
No, this system does not fit round crossbars. The design is engineered specifically for square, original, and aerodynamic beams. You must verify your roof rack shape before ordering. Attempting to mount it on round bars will result in an improper fit. Check your vehicle’s roof rack type to ensure compatibility with the mounting points provided.
What is the total weight of the two racks?
The pair of racks weighs 24.9 pounds. This weight applies to the racks only, excluding any additional accessories. The substantial weight contributes to the stability of the setup. You should consider this when calculating the total load on your vehicle. The density of the alloy steel adds to the overall mass of the units.
How wide is each individual rack?
Each rack measures 10.2 inches in width. This width provides a stable base for securing kayaks or similar long gear. The dimensions are designed to accommodate various water sports equipment. You can place your kayak across these two units for balanced support. The width ensures the gear remains centered on your vehicle’s roof.
What is the height of the ARKSEN racks?
The height of each rack is 19.7 inches. This vertical dimension allows for ample space to secure your kayak. It helps keep the gear elevated from the crossbars for better clearance. You should check your vehicle’s garage height if you plan to fold the racks up. The height is optimized for standard kayak transport needs.
Are these racks suitable for aerodynamic crossbars?
Yes, the ARKSEN racks are compatible with aerodynamic crossbars. They also work with square and original beam styles. The mounting system is designed to fit these specific shapes securely. You do not need additional adapters for these bar types. Ensure your crossbars are not round, as those are not supported by this design.
What model number is this kayak rack?
The model number for this product is 005-TH-KCR2S. This identifier helps you find the correct replacement parts or verify the exact specification. It distinguishes this 2-pack universal folding rack from other ARKSEN products. You can use this number when searching for compatibility information online. It ensures you are looking at the correct item details.