I could probably go an inch shorter and it would be okay. When the kayaks are on, in the lower position I have about 2 inches to the body of the truck. I had dented my 4Runner before from cutting the bar too short and not looking to do that again. My kayaks are 98lbs each and put a good amount...
The drivers monitor is the worst thing about the GX IMO. I have tried vinyl , electrical tape to cover the camera and in 30 minutes the drivers inattention pop-up comes on, even with drivers monitor turned off. The "technology expert" at my dealer said there isn't a way to disable pop-ups...