Available Rooftop Canoe Carriers for Use on Vehicle Roof Rack

Updated 04/14/2020 | Published 03/12/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount

(114)

$899.95

LockRack Adjustable XL Watersport Carrier - Canoe, Kayak, or 2 SUPs - Side Loading - Universal Mount

(48)

$362.99

Question:

How much weight will Hullavator 897 hold and how wide a beam canoe?

asked by: Gail L

Expert Reply:

The various versions of the Thule Hullavator, including the Hullavator Pro # TH898, are not meant for use with canoes, just with kayaks. This version has a 75-lb weight capacity and accepts kayaks up to 36-inches wide. This load-assist carrier does not have the lifting capacity for the typically higher weight of a canoe.

A good high-value canoe carrier option from Lockrack is their Adjustable XL rooftop carrier # LR54FR. Although this does not offer the load assist it has a 175-lb weight rating, it fits almost any shape of roof rack bar and it includes tie-down straps. All roof-mount canoe carriers are shown on the linked page and a helpful article on watersports carriers is included too.

expert reply by: Adam R

Ryan J.

4/13/2020

I’m looking at buying a 898 Hullavator Pro. The weight capacity says 75Lbs. My tandem kayak is 80Lbs. Do you think this will be a problem. I see other reviews on here that say they use with a 80Lbs kayak with no problem.

Chris R.

4/14/2020

I really can't recommend exceeding the listed capacity of the Hullavator, even if it's not by much. As you noted though, customers have been able to load up 80 pound kayaks without a problem.