Without racks, this mazda is actually 1" taller than the subaru is WITH racks. 68" with a bare roof.
Being a six-footer, it did not look that intimidating in the showroom. But I may have stepped in it. I found out later there are NO running boards made for this beast...
The optional roof rails add about 3" and the Thule 450R/Aeroblades add about 3" more. Stack saddles on top of that and I won't be able to get under many bridges now.
The $lipstream is a great $olution for many $UV's, but it looks like it would almost
double the height of my setup. (Saddles on bars, on bars, on bars, on rails!) At that point, it may not fit in my garage.
The yakima showboat is a great product too. It's lighter, fits aerobars and will not add any height to your rack.
I may be forced to go with the yakima, but prefer not to leave a big rig like this on the car as I drive around for business. They whistle and suck gas as you go. If removed, you need a safe place to store this boxy setup.
Anyone else who's considering these sliding-style loading trays should keep in mind that they can weigh a lot and that weight is subtracted from your vehicles carrying capacity. Possibly a concern with the heavier Hobies and 100 lb roof rails.