Will 12 Hobie Pro Kayak Fit on Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier

Question:

Can use this for a Hobie pro fisher. I have Thule racks built in on my P/U truck cap? LENGTH: 12foot / 3.66 M WIDTH: 36inch / 0.91 M HEIGHT: 20inch / 0.51 M CAPACITY: 500 LBS / 227 KG VANTAGE SEAT CAPACITY: 350 LBS / 159 KG FITTED HULL WEIGHT: 105 LBS / 48 KG FULLY RIGGED WEIGHT: 128.5 LBS / 58.29 KG HULL CONSTRUCTION: ROTOMOLDED POLYETHYLENE HEIGHT FROM FLOOR TO MIDDLE OF THE KAYAK: 16.25inch TO BAR / 41.27 CM TO BAR Also how much room does each take on the rack. If possible I would use them side by side. Thanks!

asked by: JEFF S

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you are wanting to take 2 kayaks with you if you're wanting to put them side by side. The Thule Hullavator you referenced requires roughly 29-1/2" of load bar space and the cross bars must extend 4-8" past the mounting feet so there is sufficient clearance between the Hullavator and your truck.

Most roof mounted carriers are not going to be rated to carry such a heavy kayak like your Hobie, The Hullivator is only rated for 75 lbs, so I can't recommend that you use your Hobie with it.

However I do have another way to transport your kayaks. Using a trailer like the Malone MicroSport Trailer for 2 Extra Heavy Boats # MPG461B2 would allow you to tow both the kayaks behind your truck and prevent having to lift the kayak up over your head. It has a 800 lb weight capacity and is designed to carry boats up to 20' long. It has 78" Square crossbars and 7' padded bunks so its perfect for larger heavier fishing kayaks and canoes like yours. It's made from a galvanized steel construction, so it will resist rust and corrosion. You can check it out with the picture I attached of a customer's trailer loaded up.

A few things to keep in mind is that the trailer uses a 4 flat trailer connector for the lights, and has a 2" coupler, so you may need additional equipment for you truck. If you let me know the year, make and model I can provide a recommendation for a trailer hitch, ball mount and wiring.

I linked the trailer and attached a review video for you to check out.

expert reply by: Robert C