Roof Rack and Kayak cart/wheel recommendation?
 

Hi Guys,

I'm looking for a roof rack and a kayak wheel/cart. Can i get some suggestion on which one to get?

Can't help with the roof rack, don't have one. As for wheels. Get some with balloon type wheels. Much easier in the sand. Also stay away from the kind that goes thru your scuppers. They are the weakest part of your yak and may crack the scuppers. My 2 cents worth.

Rack depends on your vehicle. Transporting your yak upside down is the most stable and efficient method. Straight bars w/pads works best as long as vehicle is wide enough for the number of yaks you intend to put on it. Avoid cradles, rollers and such if possible for your situation.

Its a Rav4

If you have the side rails on the rav 4 already, Thule makes a system that just clamps the cross bars right onto your existing side rails. Super easy. OEX has all the Thule stuff in stock, plus three different wheel carts, including the big inflatable sand tires.

Anybody tried the Thule Slipstream rack?

I have the slipstream xt and it works great. I have a very heavy yak, hobie outfitter, and it handles it perfectly. Its on a toyota sienna minivan on the factory crossbars. I'm happy with it.

I have the factory cross rails, so which one do you recommend?

How about the

Malone SeaWing and the Stinger Loading Module

And the kayak wheels? i'm thinking the wheelz, seems like most people get that one.

I got a set of used yakima rack that would work with your factory rails. PM if your interested.

Yeah I was also thinking about the slip stream 887xt
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRSzd...eature=related

Does any one have any other opinions on this rack?

Roof rack
 

Just got a VW Routan...wonder it this system will work? GREAT IDEA~

Do you want this so your kayak looks cool on it or are you hoping someone might 'borrow' your rack system while your paddling? That thing is way overkill like a 5 finger-hole bowling ball, not to mention you shouldn't drive fast or far. Still didn't consider the straight bar set-up? Do the right thing bro.

I think most would agree both Thule and Yakima make great rack systems that will do the job to transport your kayak and any other adventure activity you need a rack for. Talk to a dealer and find out which racks by these brands will work on your vehicle, cost, quality and make your decision.

Same with wheels. Go to one of the OEX shops and look at what they have, any questions the shop owner will be able to answer to help you make a decision you are comfortable with.

my 2 cents :)

Racks
 

I need something eazy to remove the Yak from the side or the back of the van...you don't think that this system is good for long or fast driving?

Just spent a a chunk of cash on the van...don't want to scratch it all up the first slip:eek: Besides wifey will use my sack for coins if I do.

So no on speed and no on long trips?

So no on speed and no on long trips?

If so they are putting their product name at risk with a bad design and also their customers and others on the road at risk. Unless these racks are made for only driving on side roads a few blocks from where you are unloading it. I'm not buying it. They are designed to withstand freeway use and travel. Why would you release a product that has been tested if it was not suitable for freeway travel? Unless I guess the company does not know that Americans drive on freeways. They do state no off road use and obey speed limits.

Slipstream XT
• For quality fits and safety, use only the recommended
rack or accessory as stated in Thule’s current Fit Guide.
Do not assume a rack will fit, always check the current
Fit Guide when obtaining a new vehicle.
• Unless stated otherwise in these instructions, do not
carry more than 75 kg (165 lbs.) on Thule Load Carriers.
Thule Load Carriers do not increase gutter or roof
strength. Thule can not warranty loads that exceed this
limit. Total load = cargo weight plus weight of
accessories used to carry cargo.
• Always make sure all doors are open when mounting a
roof rack system. Make sure all knobs, bolts, screws,
straps, and locks are firmly attached, tightened and
locked before every trip. Knobs, bolts, screws straps and
locks must be periodically inspected for signs of wear,
corrosion, and fatigue. Check your load at stops during
the trip to ensure continued fastening security.
• Check local and state laws governing projection of
objects beyond the perimeter of a vehicle. Be aware of
the width and height of your cargo since low clearance
branches, bridges, and parking garages can affect the
load. All cargo will affect the vehicle’s driving behavior.
Never drive with any lock, knob or rack in an open or
unlocked position. All long loads such as, but not limited
to, sailboards, surfboards, kayaks, canoes, and lumber
must be tied down front and rear to the bumpers or tow
hooks of the vehicle.
• Remove your Thule rack and accessories when they are
not in use and before entering automatic car washes.
• All locks must be turned and moved periodically to
ensure smooth operation. Use graphite or dry lubricant
to help this. Thule locks are designed to deter vandalism
and theft but should not be considered theft proof.
Remove valuable gear if your vehicle is unattended for
an extended period. Place at least one key in the
glove compartment.
• For safety to your vehicle and rack system, obey all
posted speed limits and traffic cautions. Adapt your
speed to the conditions of the road and the load being
carried.
• Do not use Thule load carriers and accessories for
purposes other than those for which they were designed.
Do not exceed their carrying capacity. Failure to follow
these guidelines or the product’s instructions will void
the warranty.
• Consult with your Thule dealer if you have any questions
regarding the operations and limits of Thule products.
Review all instructions and warranty information
carefully.
• Not for use on trailers or towed vehicles.
• Not for offroad use.
• Keep bicycle tires away from hot exhaust.

The slipstream works
 

I routinely go over 70 while carrying my heavy hobie outfitter (real weight around 90 lbs.) between Carlsbad and LJ or SD bay. Haven't lost it yet and not worried about losing it.

Really concerned? Use a bow line.

The rack isn't cheap but I like it because I have a super heavy kayak and a minivan and this thing is a breeze to load and unload and eliminates any direct kayak to car contact.

Roof rack
 

Stopped in at REI...read all the do's and don'ts on this system...My X Factor should not be an issues for the racks avilable for the VAN... on the other hand...my new ride (wifes old one) G6 GTP will not work fast or slow~ so...looks like the van gets the rack :)

I miss my truck :(


Joe, Thanks for the INFO

I'm sorry for you choking on my 2 cents, go talk to your friendly sales-person. They will treat you like a friend. Who knows, you'll probably buy something and never know the difference anyway. Own it Solo.

Any comments on the Malone Seawing and the Stinger loading assist?