Securing Canoe To Roof Bars

How to tie down a canoe to a roof rack.

Securing canoe to roof bars.

Secure the stern of the canoe to the rear bumper preferable as close to the corners as possible. Attach the other end of the line to a secure point on your vehicle. They should sit across the roof without significantly protruding on either side. Secure mid point of the canoe to the back of the roof.

If your vehicle has a roof rack you have one of the best situations for tying down a canoe. The first step to securing your kayak is make sure the pool noodles are the correct shape for your vehicle. 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. The best way to make your life easier when loading kayaks onto a roof rack is to set up the kayak in an advantageous position on the ground before lifting it.

Never attach the tie down straps to plastic parts on your car. If there is a lot of noodle sticking out you ll need to trim it to fit. Bring the straps over the kayak or canoe. Do use high quality straps to secure your canoe kayak to the roof rack.

It also reduces the risk of damaging your vehicle. Tie the straps down with cam buckles to secure the kayak. Do use some pads between your kayak and bars not necessary if you have wingbars with rubber strips. If you don t have a secure point such as a tow hook you can install a hood loop strap to create one.

The proper way to load a canoe onto a vehicle with an existing roof rack using cam straps bow and stern ties and foams. Do check your roofrack is securely fitted. To tie down a kayak place it right side up on your roof rack and center it. Kayak roof rack step 3.

Do check your straps for wear and tear and replace when necessary they won t last forever. Place and secure the pool noodles on top of your car. This is a simple step that s often overlooked by new kayakers. For example those securing a kayak to crossbars should always start by flipping the kayak over so that it s face down.

Find everything you need for loading. Hook the end of the line with the ratchet to a secure point on the front of the kayak such as the grab handle. A roof rack is ideal as it provides the most secure tie down. If you don t have a roof rack there are still other options out there for you.