Re: [Paddlewise] "J" bars vs. saddles

I've used both with composite boats, for short haul trips on day  
paddles and to transport
from Iowa to the east coast.  We currently use a set of Malone and a  
set of Yakima J-type
bars on a Volvo XC and this allows us to also put two bikes up top,  
too.  We've used the
same set up on a Subaru Forester.

That said, my guess is that the Yakima Mako Saddles provide a  
'softer' ride...they have more
shock absorption built into their flex than do the J-Bars.  This may  
or may not be important
because the J-Bars may or may not transmit road shock in the same  
way.  The J-Bars seem
to concentrate the points of contact, so we're carefull to slip in  
some extra padding on long,
high speed trips...so we can strap down tightly but still protect the  
composite.

I've been really happy with the Malone design...keeps straps in place  
more easily and seems
to distribute the surface contact a bit better...and I find them  
easier to load when by myself.

-Will
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