J Cradles or Saddles? - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

T-Rex · 08-09-2014, 05:34 PM

I use J cradles with my 2 Malibu xFactors and they work okay. Made 4 trips to Central Oregon with no problems. That being said, on two occassions I have broken 2 of the plastic cradle bases while driving in high winds (40-50 mph), but Thule has replaced them free of charge. Always make sure to securely tie down the bows of both kayaks to two locations to minimize torque on the cradles. I think an xfactor is bigger than an outback so you shouldn't have any issues as long as everything is tied down securely.

Also, I bought my cradles in 2000. I think the new designs are stronger.

08-09-2014, 05:34 PM	#2
T-Rex Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Rancho Santa Margarita Posts: 770	I use J cradles with my 2 Malibu xFactors and they work okay. Made 4 trips to Central Oregon with no problems. That being said, on two occassions I have broken 2 of the plastic cradle bases while driving in high winds (40-50 mph), but Thule has replaced them free of charge. Always make sure to securely tie down the bows of both kayaks to two locations to minimize torque on the cradles. I think an xfactor is bigger than an outback so you shouldn't have any issues as long as everything is tied down securely. Also, I bought my cradles in 2000. I think the new designs are stronger. __________________