Best Malone Kayak Trailer That Keeps Bunks As Low As Possible

Updated 07/02/2026 | Published 06/25/2026

Question:

I’m interested in the Malone kayak trailer. I’d like to install the bunks directly on the trailer frame so that the kayak is as low as possible. My kayak weighs about 55 lbs. would this be ok? Thank you

asked by: Michael B

Expert Reply:

Hi Michael, thanks for reaching out! If you're looking to keep your kayak as low as possible, the Malone LowBed MicroSport Trailer # MAL25FR will be the best option. It features a low-profile design with crossbars that sit only about 22" off the ground, making loading and unloading much easier.

The bunk brackets are designed to mount to the trailer's 1-1/4" square crossbars, not directly to the trailer frame. While they can't be mounted directly to the frame, the LowBed design keeps the kayak very low without needing to modify the trailer.

With your kayak weighing only about 55 lbs, you're well within the trailer's 225-lb kayak capacity, so the trailer and bunk system will support it without any issues.

If you're using standard carpeted bunks, they'll provide excellent support for the hull and won't damage your kayak when they're adjusted properly.

What type and length of kayak do you have, and do you typically launch by yourself?

expert reply by: Jesse M

Michael B.

6/30/2026

Hi Jesse, Thank you for the reply. The LowBed MicroSport a good configuration - I'd like to set up a similar bunk height on the EcoLight because it's 6 feet shorter, 20" narrower, 50 lbs lighter, and less expensive. It would be for a single Hobie Lynx, which is 11' long, 3' wide and weighs 75 lbs fully rigged. So this would be like a "LowBed EcoLight", which I can DIY if needed. Thanks - Mike

Jesse M.

6/30/2026

@MichaelB Ok gotcha that makes sense. While I can't "officially" recommend modifying the trailer, I bet you could turn the EcoLight # MAL53FR into a low bed version by simply drilling a few new holes into the uprights that connect the square crossbars to the trailer frame. They are just held on by U-bolts, so as long as you get the hole spacing right you should be able to make that happen.

Michael B.

6/30/2026

@JesseM That's what I was thinking. I've also emailed Malone to see what they might say. BTW, etrailer's assembly video for the EcoLight is really well done - very detailed. Thanks again.