I have just fitted a set of the Thule roofbars and im not so sure that they will do the job that I
bought them for.

My intention is to carry a 5m canoe but the instructions for the bars show a distance of 700mm between them. It just doesnt seem to be a big enough gap to support such a big canoe. The only alternative to me seems to be to buy the LR rails but I dont want them on all the time.
Also, the roofbars seem to be fitted correctly BUT they are touching the paintwork at the top of the metal clamp. Surely, this is not correct?

Is anyyone with these bars able to offer any advice, especially if they carry large items. Discovery Sport Hse Lux, Santorini Black, Ivory Leather Interior, Factory Privacy Glass, removable tow bar.

Hi Tonyrec

I regularly carry 4 kayaks on Jaguar/thule aerobars attached to my LR roof rails. I space the bars as wide as possible to support my kayaks.

The LR roof rails specify 700mm minimum but no maximum spacing.

Not sure about foot pack spacings and unable to access Thule site at moment

Hi Muddywheels,
Your set up is perfect.
The trouble with the Thule bars that I have is that they 'appear' to be too close together.........with your set up you have the extra length over towards the back of the roof. Discovery Sport Hse Lux, Santorini Black, Ivory Leather Interior, Factory Privacy Glass, removable tow bar.

I have Thule gear, and there is NO metal to paint contact - PM me if you want more info or photos of the set up. 2007 Freelander 2 HSE TD4 Manual with Premium Pack & Moonroof.
Stornoway Grey with Ebony Black Pleather, Clear Indicators, Body Side Mouldings etc.

I have now seen the instructions for the foot system and it does appear to specify 700mm centres but it shows long loads, ie canoe strapped to front and rear of car. I have seen sea kayaks transported in this way.

If you went for the roof rails as I have you can space the bars up to 1200mm apart.

AndyC,
You have a PM Discovery Sport Hse Lux, Santorini Black, Ivory Leather Interior, Factory Privacy Glass, removable tow bar.

Muddywheels,
Thanks for the reply. I suppose that if its secured front and back as well that it might work. Must try it on the roof tomorrow. Discovery Sport Hse Lux, Santorini Black, Ivory Leather Interior, Factory Privacy Glass, removable tow bar.