What are you doing for a kayak rack?

This is a great thread ... learning a lot ... Looking to carry a canoe.

I am thinking OEM roof rack and this goalpost from Thule:
https://www.thule.com/en-us/winter-and-water-sports-carriers/kayak-roof-racks/thule-goalpost-_-9644

Seems to keep the bed free and doesn't mess with the tonneau, etc. Thule quality is good, too.

Food for thought ...

 

Just keep in mind the weight and side of the kayak. 65lbs is about the limit for anything I'd put in a kayak carrier on the roof.

 

Good point. The Thule goalpost can hold a weight of 165 pounds (which should be fine) and the OEM roof rack will hold up to 100 pounds. So I might need to pair the Thule with a stronger roof rack. Should be fine for kayaks but I have a heavier Old Time canoe and so might need greater weight capacity.

 

It's not so much what the rack can handle, it's more so getting it up there and how the carriers flex. I'll take pictures in a bit. Some have the weight distributed in a way that the carrier acts as a lever and it really puts a lot of force.


The other consideration is in the rare case of if you pull a lat or a neck muscle out on the water. Will you still be able to get it in a carrier.

I prefer anything that can lay the yak flat for my bulkier kayaks.

 

To extend the mounting slots in the rack I just used a couple of hand files. It took a bit but the aluminum is soft so it wasn’t bad. I carefully measured for where the tonneau mounting pins needed to pass through and drilled those.
As for the slot needed to pass through the mounting bolt bracket I drill 2 holes and filed a slot between them.

full disclosure that slot looked like hell when I was done so yes, I did take it to work and cleaned it up on the proper milling machine.

 

Also new england and kayak fish. Fish_NE_Where on IG. If you hit the ocean and are around boston hit me up.

 

I've not read further in but I recently bought a kayak that came on a trailer but the damn thing was far, f we too light. 4 yaks would most likely negate this issue but beware.
Edit: I've read until end. Bought trailer with single yak from an old couple who couldn't put it up topon their SUV. My point here is too light on a trailer: bounces everywhere.

 

That is the advantage of a dedicated kayak trailer. It’s not overly sprung like most utility trailers.
Plus super easy loading since it’s not up high. Downside is you need to be going somewhere you can park with a trailer.
I bought a Right On Ruffsport a few years back that was perfect for towing behind my Fiat.

 

You had me all the way until Fiat ;D
Sad it was the last word haha.
Yes, mine is definitely a jet skit trailer. Fill it with full cooler and firewood it's solid!
But luckily I think I'm selling trailer to neighbor.

 

Just go all out and get a camper shell with a prinsu cab rack and top rack! J/k, I do have a shell though and use the factory bars with J cradles on them.

 

Well.. am going all out.. UpTop over softop racks. But I keep trying to forget about it until I trip over it one unexpected morning

 

I regret I didnt add: fantastic looking match job

 

I like this, but what advantage does it have over Yak laying in the bed with the tailgate down? (Strapped, of course -- we're always strapped.)

 

Got 2 Kuat they work great and I can fit one in the middle of needed. https://www.rei.com/b/kuat/c/watercraft-racks

 

I was testing this for carrying two. My friend had a 12ft Hobie and I am trying to get him to do a river float.

 

My setup, Malone Versa rack on the roof, and one or two boats in the bed. I have since gotten the Harbor Freight bed extender for the back $50 after applying the ubiquitous 20% off coupon.

 

I assume it's so that you have room for gear underneath.

 

@Cameraandcoffee - sorry to be so slow to respond, I'm new to this type of forum.... But thanks a ton for your response and pictures, I really appreciate it!

 

Utility trailer advantages:
Virtually no weight limit as kayaks and canoes are very light
No lifting overhead.
Easy tie down
Bed stays free for luggage, coolers, gear, etc...
No need to load and unload at home. Park it and done.
Trailer can easily be used for other things without additional expense. Kayak rack, bike rack attachments are expensive. Kayaks, bikes, lumber, ATV's, furniture....