Re: [Paddlewise] Car Topping (Storage) Question

From: Michael Daly <mikedaly_at_magma.ca>
Date: Sun, 14 Mar 2004 11:25:44 -0500
On 14 Mar 2004 at 10:01, Stephen Bird wrote:

> I have a psychological adversion to deck down because
> I'm worried about losing hatch/cockpit covers (ie, they will just fall
> off).

Some manufacturers recommend _not_ carrying deck down - Current 
Designs for example.  Some North American kayaks have decks that are 
lighter than their hulls - hence hull down is stronger.  The famous 
British Heavies have thick deck layups and can be transported deck 
down.

All hatch and cockpit covers should have a tether.  Even if they come 
off, they shouldn't go too far.  Whether on the car or on the water, 
you don't want to lose a cover.

FWIW, I wouldn't worry about the difference between saddles, J 
carriers or stackers for how they affect the kayak.  Pick any one 
based on other considerations (like how many kayaks you want on the 
roof or ease of loading) and go with it.  All three systems are used 
by lots of folks and I'd guess that most problems are "user error".  
If you have a plastic kayak, watch out for the effects of heat or 
really long storage on a rack.  If a composite kayak deforms on a 
rack, buy a better kayak.

Mike
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Received on Mon Mar 15 2004 - 06:28:59 PST

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