Securing Canoe To Roof Rack

How to tie down a canoe to a roof rack.

Securing canoe to roof rack.

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. Straps spread the load out a bit and are easy to use but tie the strap ends down after cinching them just in. 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. You can use cam buckle straps or ropes.

Run 2 boat straps over the top of the kayak and them under the roof rack bars then bring the straps to the other side of the kayak and loop them under the roof rack bars on that side. Be careful when loading the canoe onto your roof you don t want to dent your vehicle. Note that some types of larger kayaks should not be used with roof racks. 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. A roof rack is ideal as it provides the most secure tie down. If you don t have a secure point such as a tow hook you can install a hood loop strap to create one. This step by step guide will describe how to secure a canoe or kayak to a factory installed or aftermarket roof rack.

Never attach the tie down straps to plastic parts on your car. To tie down a kayak place it right side up on your roof rack and center it. 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 your vehicle has a roof rack you have one of the best situations for tying down a canoe.

Hook the end of the line with the ratchet to a secure point on the front of the kayak such as the grab handle. Tie your canoe across the centre where it is supported by the rack or foam blocks. If you don t have a roof rack there are still other options out there for you. The two remaining straps will secure the two ends of the canoe to the frame or to the bumpers of the vehicle.

Attach the other end of the line to a secure point on your vehicle. It also reduces the risk of damaging your vehicle. Two of the straps will go across the hull of the canoe and secure the canoe to the roof rack. Check your manufacturer s instructions for details on your kayak.

To tie the canoe to the vehicle you ll want to use four 12 foot straps with cam buckels.