Kayak Loader/Carrier

Hey mate,

There is a Thule system called "Hullavator" which although appears excellent, I have heard many mixed reviews from people in the roof rack trade (in two states, ACT and TAS). Looks like an AWESOME system though, and I seriously considered it for my sea kayak.

Thule make an "outrigger" which you should lookup. (Google "thule outrigger").

The outrigger system means you only have to lift half the weight at any time, and you don't have the "reach" over the roof of the car to place your boat on the racks, which none of us who paddle truly enjoy :-)

Anyway, I know you don't have Thule racks - but there is another solution. I don't know who makes it, and I don't know what it's called - but it's an Aussie version of the Thule outrigger, and it's designed to be used with any brand of roof rack.

If you are interested in one, give Ian a call at Roof Rack City in Belconnen ACT. I know they have them in stock. They might be able to tell you the brand etc, and either you will be able to get one locally, or Ian will be able to do one mail-order for you.

I hope the info helps you out. It's tough being off the water when you enjoy paddling so much. I am suffering a recurring shoulder injury (though likely nowhere near as serious as yours which required a reconstruction) and can't get out on the water as much as I would like.

Hi Don,

I've got the Rhino Racks "Rear Loading Kayak carrier".

The rear holders are smooth, so you can lift the front of the kayak in and then you can slide it forward.

It's much easier than trying to lift the whole kayak across at once.

The Thule Hullavator looks good, but at over $600 at bit expensive for me.

Graeme

Don
On my 100 series I have rhino racks and I just bought a 1 metre piece of U channel aluminium from bunnings thats fits into the ends of the racks reasonably snuggly, I just slide it in about 200mm and then lift the front of the kayak onto the channel then go around the back of the kayak and lift the rear up and onto the rhino racks, then slide the front over and tie it down.
Cost about $10
Mal

Guys,

Thanks for your helpful responses.

The 'hullivator' according to the website can't be used with Rhino apparently. The 'hydraglide' can.

I did try the Rhino easy glide but still have to lift the front over that stupid wing on the back of the 200. I like the sound of the outrigger in both commercial and "Bunnings" options and may try the latter first.

Again, thanks for your help.