Re: [Paddlewise] Car Topping Question

I carry my glass boat upright.  I carry my plastic
boat in the same rack, but I turn it over before tying
it down, to prevent hull distortion.

A side rack will eliminate this problem.  The only
down side I've seen to side mounts is they are hard to
load in the wind.  You need someone to hold the boat
in place so you can tie it down.  Of course, if it's
really windy both types require a little help.

On the plus side, you can haul three boats on their
side in the room two boats would use carried upright.

Were you hoping for some clear cut advise?  No way. 
Kayaking in the most variable pondering and counter
intuitive sport I've ever done.  It's also the most
enjoyable.

Here's hopeing you have a great trip.  If your coming
to So Cal let us know. CKF (California Kayak Friends)
would be happy to take you on a paddle or two.

Mike



--- Stephen Bird <StephenBird_at_superaje.com> wrote:
> Greetings....
> 
> I'll soon be starting a car trip of approximately
> 2000+ miles with kayak on
> my vehicle's roof racks. I have a set of Thule
> Hull-A-Port racks which
> place the kayak on its side and I also have a set of
> foam forms which fit
> the Thule bar and keep the kayak sitting upright. 
> 
> My question: what is the best way of transporting
> the kayak - on its side
> or upright? I see some (hull) strength advantages of
> transporting on the
> side, especially with a fairly long overhang front
> and back with tie-downs
> adding to the stress on the kayak. Thoughts? Many
> thanks...
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************