Re: [Paddlewise] Bow Tie-Downs Revisited

Chuck Holst wrote:

> I don't always use bow tie-downs when traveling short distances. I did this
> time because of the discussions on Paddlewise, and I'm glad. Now I'm
> starting to think more seriously about using stern tie-downs, too.
>
> Chuck Holst
>

A good lesson for all of us on the reason why you need both bow and stern
lines.  Think of what might have happened if someone had hit them from the
front, without a stern line!  Thank God no one was hurt.  It's always the other
guy you have to be prepared for, it seems.  I hope the Romanys came through
without damage.

Given the description of the damage to his wagon, it seems that Chuck is, or
maybe soon will be, in the market for a new kayak "carrier".  Maybe something
that'll hold its own with a Cherokee?  ;-)

It's making my rethink the way I tie down.  Our kayaks over hang the rear of
our car, so both bow and stern lines slope backwards.  Nothing other than the
webbing straps at the saddles, on either side of the cockpit, to keep the boats
from moving forward.  From Chucks description of the accident it seems that the
tower/car connection is the weak link, since three of the four towers separated
from the car.  The only restraint I have on forward movement is connected to
the cross bar.  This does not give me a warm and fuzzy feeling.  My existing
bow and stern lines would limit the distance the kayak could move forward, but
I'm thinking in terms of adding something like a line running from the bow to
the rear fender.  Am I being too paranoid?

John Blackburn


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