Car Roof Rack for 2 Canoes?

[JohnnyMac]

Greetings,

Most car roof carriers offer products to carry multiple kayaks but not sure I know of a way to carry multiple canoes. Is there a way to carry two canoes on a car roof?

Specifically, I own a Bell Morningstar (15.5'/36 lb) and am in the market for a Hornbeck Lost Pond (10.5'/16 lb). If my canoeing partner joins me in my solo canoe quest, we would likely have two Hornbeck size boats to transport. Do you think the multiple kayak options work with two small canoes?

Thanks!

John

[Cahill]

If you currently have an aftermarket rack system (thule, yakima, etc) you can just get a longer bar. I've got 66" bars and can carry two explorers easily. The width of your bar will depend on the combined width of your canoes.

[Hakuna Matada]

Measure the widest part of both canoes and buy a bar longer than that. They have them pretty long. Be be sure to pad the part that sticks out beyond the roof and watch your head. I don't know of any other type racks like holding them on their sides.

[forevrwyld]

.....I agree just get longer bars. Until I had the cash I just duct taped a 2x4 to the front and rear bars to get the reach I needed. Then cut off the tape when I was done with the trip.

'Ev

[Kevin]

I designed my own bars for 2 kayaks. I got the bars at home depot plumming dept (cut to my specifications), bought some pipe insulation for cushioning which were attached with hose clamps, and then added rubber knobs at the end (you wouldn't want to walk into the cut ends of metal piping getting the boat off ). I attach the bars to the existing roof rack using larger hose clamps, which also allows you to take the bars on/off after use.

I then strap both kayaks down as I normally would. Strapping them down takes some planning, but once you figure out a system you're all set.

I think it cost less than $50 for this DIY.