What J-Style Kayak Carrier do You Recommend for My 34-Inch Wide Hobie Passport?

Updated 02/23/2022 | Published 02/21/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Kuat Class 2 Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Fixed Arms - Clamp On

(13)

$198.00

Malone SaddleUp Pro Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Clamp On

(36)

$215.95

Malone DownLoader Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(141)

$179.95

Question:

Can you suggest a J style folding rack that can accept my Hobie Passport, which is wider than most kayaks? I bought a Downloader, but its just a bit too narrow in the rear cradle.

asked by: Scott A

Expert Reply:

Sorry to hear about your DownLoader # MPG114MD. From my research on your Hobie Passport, it is a 34-inch wide hull at its widest point. For a J-style carrier for that width, the best option is the Kuat Class 2 Kayak Carrier # C2R1B. I confirmed with my tech at Yakima that this carrier can accommodate a 34-inch wide hull.

If you are concerned about the height of your kayak (from the bottom of the boat to the top surface of the boat), the cradles on the BowDown are 5-1/2 inches wide. As long as the height of your boat is less than 5-2/3 inches, the Kuat Class 2 will work great for you. I recommend measuring the height of your Hobie to make sure it can fit into the 10 inch long cradles. I went ahead and attached a diagram of the length to give you perspective and to help you determining the fitment.

If you find that your kayak exceeds the length of the cradles, I recommend a saddle carrier like the Malone SaddleUp Pro Kayak Carrier with Tie-Downs - Saddle Style # MPG110MD. The SaddleUp comes with a 90-pound weight capacity and does not limit the kayak's fitment to j-style mounts. It is a rear-loading system so you do not need to worry about awkward maneuvering for a side-loading option.

expert reply by: Bob C