Roof Rack Recommendations for Kayak

MikeOis · 19-05-2011 12:18PM #1

Hi, I have bought an Ocean Malibu Kayak and I have roof bars on my car. Could anybody please offer some advice as to which is best how to mount the kayak to the roof bars i.e. using J support, foam pads. I have tried many websites and Thule are offering expensive solutions, I was more on the line of using a bracket (Fasty Winch, which I can't find here in Ireland) attached to the roof bar and running a strap off that, with some foam on the bottom. Any advice much appreciated, thank you!!!

rgfuller · 19-05-2011 01:35PM

If you are just transporting one Kayak why not just place it upside down on the bars and strap down well - maybe get some foam wraparounds for the bars to cushion a bit.

Some good advice here - http://paddling.about.com/od/paddling101/ss/kayak_roof_rack_3.htm

copperhead · 19-05-2011 08:59PM

hi mike i just turn the kayak upside down and use 2 lockable straps to secure
also a handy tip, is the lagging foam used on pipes fits perfect around my roof rack and only costs about a euro for a meter.

wet-paint · 19-05-2011 09:32PM

Unless you're Ahnuld Schwarzenegger, you're not going to do any damage to the boat by tying it straight to the bars. Couple of cam straps and Bob's your uncle.
J Bars are more suited to composite boats and sea kayaks.

MikeOis · 20-05-2011 07:06AM

Many thanks for your suggestions!!
Cheers!!!

mawk · 21-05-2011 10:36PM

be very careful with ratchet straps. they are easy to over tighten and damage your boat.

something like rhino straps are a better option, and dispite the look of them theyre plenty strong enough, just tie a knot after the clamp to be safe and youre away. much faster than ratchet straps too.

something like;
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Roofrack-Accessories-Palm-Roofrack-Straps-Kayak-Canoe-/320613697482?pt=UK_Sporting_Goods_Canoeing_Kayaking_ET&var=&hash=item76bf8502c4

wet-paint · 21-05-2011 11:17PM

They're called cam straps.

Zuppy · 22-05-2011 05:17PM

Just be sure the boat is secured. As the driver your responsible for your load. And losing the boat at 100km/h on the road can be very messy.

I always buy a decent roof rack and straps. Peace of mind.

Roof Rack Recommendations for Kayak

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