Malibu_Two:
How strong are the crossbars on the Islands (not the akas that attach to the amas, but the hard-mounted crossbar that is attached to the boat)?
Can you lift the boat by them? I ask because I've found that unloading the TI by myself, the rear crossbar comes in real handy for lifting, balancing, and pulling. Am I risking any damage?
Thanks, Andrew
NowhereMan:
If I was strong enough to do so, I wouldn't hesitate to lift my AI by either crossbar. Interested to see what others have to say...
NowhereMan:
Since it looks like nobody else is going to jump in here...
If you're still in doubt, I'd suggest that you remove one of the crossbars from the kayak, just to examine how it's constructed and to see how securely it attaches to the kayak. Once you do that, I think you'll be convinced that it's as strong as anything on the boat.
Hchoy:
I feel it has to be pretty darn strong when you consider the forces the amas put on them, at end of those long levers (akas), pushing against that 16ft sail and mast.
Not to mention the 200lbs that you are supposed to be able to put on the tramps. :smt002
Fish Monkey:
I’ve lifted my TI by the crossbars several times. I agree with previous posts that these are meant to take a lot of stress, so using them to lift your yak shouldn’t be a problem. When the yak is fully loaded with gear & two adults, pounding thru the water at 8-10 mph, that’s a lot more stress than picking up the empty hull.