GFC SuperLite

That is a nice solution to the problem. I was looking at what options I had as well. I have my superlite mounted to a Rola ladder rack with 62" load bars. If I mount the tent to one side I would have 12" free to mount a set of J hooks. Not sure if that is a workable solution yet or not. Loading and unloading would sure be a PITA compared to my previous saddle set up, so I may adopt something similar to yours.

 

What kind of kayak do you have? Also, if you’re camping, most likely there will be someone to assist with the loading/unloading of the kayak.

 

I have an Old Town Sorrento 126. And you are right about getting help loading when camping. I guess it's the local day trips by myself that would a pain, at least for areas I can't bring my trailer.

 

This video might give you some ideas for loading the kayak onto your J mounts. If you are interested in using your saddles, instead of the J mounts, read on.

The inspiration for my design came from a scull rack, similar to the one below. The key feature that should interest you is the use of the tubular frame. By connecting a 5 to 6 foot tube to your two crossbars, you will have more options in how you mount your kayak.

The advantages I see are twofold: 1) it will allow you to use your preferred saddle mounts and 2) their placement can be anywhere along the tube, no longer predetermined by the crossbar locations. Placing one near the tailgate will allow you to prop one end of the kayak on the rear mount when loading, so you won't have to lift the entire weight of the kayak to get it onto the saddles.

You will have to make some adapters that will raise your old saddle mounts high enough that the side of your kayak clears the SuperLite. If you don't have the means to make the mount risers/adapters, you could buy four heavy duty, 90 degree L brackets, similar to

$39 1/4" Thick Heavy Duty Shelf Brackets, 8.25"X6.25", 4 Pack - Max. 90lb, 0.25" Thk Metal Rustic Farmhouse Cottage Wooden Floating Shelves Bracket, Industrial Wall Corner Mount, w/Screws and Wall Anchors

these.

 

Thanks, some really good info there. Once the weather warms up I will have to pull the kayak out of storage and play around to see what works for me. It definitely wouldn't be had to add a tube on top of my crossbars much like you did. Thankfully I work in manufacturing and have access to make whatever I need for custom brackets.

Thanks again for the good ideas!

 

Up on the interior pocket is that number the serial number?

 

Some recent shots of my Superlite offset to allow J hooks for the kayak.