Securing Canoe To Roof Rack

Note that some types of larger kayaks should not be used with roof racks.

Securing canoe to roof rack.

Tie the straps down with cam buckles to secure the kayak. If your vehicle has a roof rack you have one of the best situations for tying down a canoe. The proper way to load a canoe onto a vehicle with an existing roof rack using cam straps bow and stern ties and foams. If you don t have a secure point such as a tow hook you can install a hood loop strap to create one.

To tie down a kayak place it right side up on your roof rack and center it. Straps spread the load out a bit and are easy to use but tie the strap ends down after cinching them just in. To tie the canoe to the vehicle you ll want to use four 12 foot straps with cam buckels. Check your manufacturer s instructions for details on your kayak.

This step by step guide will describe how to secure a canoe or kayak to a factory installed or aftermarket roof rack. Hook the end of the line with the ratchet to a secure point on the front of the kayak such as the grab handle. Attach the other end of the line to a secure point on your vehicle. Two of the straps will go across the hull of the canoe and secure the canoe to the roof rack.

Choose a kayak carrier the right kayak carrier for you depends on the size weight of your watercraft how many kayaks you want to transport and how convenient of a setup you prefer. Find everything you need for loading. Securing your canoe to your roof rack will look a bit different depending on what style carrier you have. While canoe and kayak roof racks can be fitted to virtually any type of car truck or suv some manufacturers make it easier than others.

Never attach the tie down straps to plastic parts on your car. Tie your canoe across the centre where it is supported by the rack or foam blocks. The two remaining straps will secure the two ends of the canoe to the frame or to the bumpers of the vehicle. A roof rack is ideal as it provides the most secure tie down.

Consider asking a helper for assistance during this step. Position your canoe so that the yoke or middle thwart is equi distant between the contact points with the car. If you don t have a roof rack there are still other options out there for you. You can use cam buckle straps or ropes.

Be careful when loading the canoe onto your roof you don t want to dent your vehicle.