NorCal Kayak Anglers

Kayak Zone => Gearing Up and Rigging Up => Topic started by: Hydrospider on May 03, 2018, 05:29:16 PM

Title: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hydrospider on May 03, 2018, 05:29:16 PM
 It was time to retire my truck and upgrade. I decided to lose the lumber rack/J-bar combo that had I used for the last 10 years for something with a lower profile and on the shell. I will miss the ability to move 4 boats/boards or I might not.
 I was initially going to use a yakima rack with the sliding lift assist bar, but decided to check out the hullavator vs showdown for the new truck.

 Hoping that those with experience with either or both could chime in with pros and cons while I do some research and make my decision. Also willing to see a superior loader/carrier if there is one out there.
The widest boat that I plan on transporting would be a Jackson Coosa. Everything else is skinny.
Thanks in advance.


The old and the new..
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hojoman on May 03, 2018, 06:04:36 PM
I know nothing about Yakima racks.

The obvious difference between the Hullavator and Yakima racks is the ability to load the Hullavator rack at waist level, much preferable for old guys like me. I believe the cradle of the old Hullavater 891xt can comfortably hold a kayak with a max width of 36 inches. The cradle of the newer Hullavator Pro is a few inches wider. The 891xt has pins inserted to keep the cradle from accidentally releasing and swinging down; the Pro does not. The Hullavator’s official weight limit is 75 pounds, although it can hold heavier kayaks, with care. It is very important to load the kayak evenly balanced weight-wise, or you will end up with a twisted arm frame.

What I do NOT like about the Hullavator is that, while the rack is secured firmly to my gutterless truck, sidewise, It can fall off length-wise if it encounters a low-hanging tree branch or if any one tries to steal the rack..both instances have happened to me…hitting a tree branch and one of the racks partially falling off during a drive to the coast (after an attempt to steal it. Lucky for me the rack did not fall completely off the truck).
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: WassawBound on May 03, 2018, 06:31:41 PM
I really enjoy my setup. I can handle a Hobie PA 14 on my Tacoma single handed. The rack is Prinsu Designs and will cost you about half as much as a FrontRunner. http://www.prinsudesignstudio.com/2005---2017-toyota-tacoma

I recently added 3" PVC pipe. This is really needed if you're going to have your boats up top over night. Otherwise you risk denting them.

Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Spring45 on May 03, 2018, 06:36:42 PM
Well stated, Hojo. I've been using my Hullavator to transport my Hobie Outback and it barely fits. The kayak actually is too wide but I make it work. It also exceeds the rack's recommended weight capacity as well. If you don't put the yak on correctly, yes, you can warp or twist the arm. So anything lighter and more narrow than an Outback and you shouldn't encounter any issues like I have. That Jackson Coosa may be a bit too much in my opinion..
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Herb Superb on May 03, 2018, 06:48:45 PM
I’ve been eyeing the Yakima Showdown as well. Lower profile than the Hullivator, no pneumatic assist though. I have a hullivator bought used, but one of them is not locking for some reason.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: SlackedTide on May 03, 2018, 06:57:51 PM
Nice truck 👍
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hojoman on May 03, 2018, 06:59:07 PM
I’ve been eyeing the Yakima Showdown as well. Lower profile than the Hullivator, no pneumatic assist though. I have a hullivator bought used, but one of them is not locking for some reason.
Herb, contact Thule and they may send you a new part.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Sin Coast on May 03, 2018, 07:05:44 PM
Nice truck Terry!!
Nothing to add other than I like the cheap adjustable 2-piece rack. They’re about $100 on amazon and can handle 500lbs. My last set is still going strong after 7+ years. Got the same ones for my new truck.
I load my yaks upside down. It’s tough to fit the Thule j-rack on there but I would only need them if I had to transport 4+ yaks (2 on top and 2 in the bed w/tailgate down).
BUT I also want to get a shell soon, so I’ll be paying attention to this thread. Thanks!
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Fishcomb on May 03, 2018, 07:23:09 PM
Nice 2018 DCSB TRD off road cement with pro rims!
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Tote on May 03, 2018, 08:16:20 PM
Hey Terry! That looks like a lotto winners truck.  :smt044
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Spring45 on May 03, 2018, 08:20:28 PM
I’ve been eyeing the Yakima Showdown as well. Lower profile than the Hullivator, no pneumatic assist though. I have a hullivator bought used, but one of them is not locking for some reason.

What exactly isnt locking?
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Mojo Jojo on May 03, 2018, 09:11:50 PM
Got Room?






Get a trailer...... I never look back to car topping  :smt006
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Herb Superb on May 04, 2018, 02:20:46 AM
I’ve been eyeing the Yakima Showdown as well. Lower profile than the Hullivator, no pneumatic assist though. I have a hullivator bought used, but one of them is not locking for some reason.

What exactly isnt locking?

When you pull them down and they’re suppose to lock in place. Fore some reason one of them wouldn’t latch.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hydrospider on May 04, 2018, 07:38:13 AM
Thanks for the helpful contributions shared here so far. I had sort of figured that there would be some Hullavator comments and fewer with Showdown experiences.


BUT I also want to get a shell soon, so I’ll be paying attention to this thread. Thanks!

 Its the shell that has really changed the game for me and why I am searching for something other than the lumber rack and J bar combo.  No more tents. Hope this thread helps us both out.

Hey Terry! That looks like a lotto winners truck.  :smt044

 Unfortunately this truck came from hard work and good decisions, but I am happy like a lotto winner.

Nice 2018 DCSB TRD off road cement with pro rims!

Thanks, but the photo is deceiving. The truck is a long bed.
Had to wait 3 months for Toyota to build it.

Its a very bizarre feeling to not be able to transport my boats. Ill make a decision soon.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hydrospider on May 04, 2018, 07:58:54 AM
Thule vs Yakima

Starting to edge towards the Yakima showdown
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: crazyfisher on May 04, 2018, 09:51:17 AM
I’ve been eyeing the Yakima Showdown as well. Lower profile than the Hullivator, no pneumatic assist though. I have a hullivator bought used, but one of them is not locking for some reason.

What exactly isnt locking?

When you pull them down and they’re suppose to lock in place. Fore some reason one of them wouldn’t latch.

Hey Herb. I had the same issue, what I did was wiggle the arm a little bit until I hear it click/lock. You can call thule and they should help as well. This method has worked so far...until it doesn't then I will call thule and request service.

As for the initial post.

I love the hullavator. Without it I don't think I would go kayaking that much since its a lot of work to lift up the hobie outback on top of a suv without damaging it. I could use other method but then strapping it down takes additional work. With the hullavator, you put it down, lift the kayak into the craddle, then you can strap it down before lifting it onto the car/suv. I can load the kayak in less than 5 mins.

The only downfall is that its expensive.

Oh one more thing. When you aren't using it, you can detach the hullavtor  and store it inside the garage. This was a huge plus since the footprint of the bar that remain on the car is really small. The others have to stay on the car and it would be a hassle to take off and put on each time when I park in the garage.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: yakyakyak on May 04, 2018, 10:15:19 AM

Herb, you may need to loosen up the strap to get the arm to drop in at the right place.  Once it clicks, then tighten it up.  I had the same problem with mine (new), but that trick did the job for me.  The arm's movement is very strict if the strap is tight.

By the way, I do the same thing crazy does.  When I am not using it, I take it off the roof.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Herb Superb on May 04, 2018, 10:36:05 AM
Thanks, I’ll try those suggestions. Mine does it with or without straps. I’m surprised even the new Hullavators like yours are having issues. I’ve thought that maybe it was just the old models.

Hydrospider, keep us updated if you go with the showdown. I’ve seen reviews, but haven’t heard of anyone actually using them. Looks like a decent product. I may have to switch to those when the time comes.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hojoman on May 04, 2018, 11:02:23 AM
If the arms are not exactly parallel to each other, you will have issues with locking in without any jiggling involved.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: yakyakyak on May 04, 2018, 01:00:57 PM
Thanks, I’ll try those suggestions. Mine does it with or without straps. I’m surprised even the new Hullavators like yours are having issues. I’ve thought that maybe it was just the old models.

Hydrospider, keep us updated if you go with the showdown. I’ve seen reviews, but haven’t heard of anyone actually using them. Looks like a decent product. I may have to switch to those when the time comes.

Actually, mine is good all around.  It didn't click for me because the arms locations shifted during the lift up as my yak shape is not symmetrical.   I personally have no complain and will buy another one in the future in a heartbeat.

Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hydrospider on May 04, 2018, 04:43:03 PM
Decided to go with the Yakima Showdown.   Ill review after 20 or so trips.
Thanks again to those who contributed on topic.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: jrsuperman on May 04, 2018, 05:51:18 PM
Just 2 cents. I’m able to lift the hull of the 2018 AI with the hullavator xt (previous version). But crap for 449$ for the Yakima showdown, I would just go with the hullavator (479$ xt version 649$ new version).

 

...Anyone got a pair of old non working struts hullavator they wanna give away?
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hydrospider on May 04, 2018, 06:39:23 PM
Just 2 cents. I’m able to lift the hull of the 2018 AI with the hullavator xt (previous version). But crap for 449$ for the Yakima showdown, I would just go with the hullavator (479$ xt version 649$ new version).

 

...Anyone got a pair of old non working struts hullavator they wanna give away?

 Okay jrsuperman, I'm listening. Why should I go with the Hullavator?
Price point is not one of my considerations. $500 vs $1000 does not matter. Im looking to get what is best for my ops.  Do you believe that the Hullavator is superior to the Showdown?
You may have more experience than I do loading kayaks and I appreciate the help.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: yakyakyak on May 04, 2018, 07:52:25 PM
Just 2 cents. I’m able to lift the hull of the 2018 AI with the hullavator xt (previous version). But crap for 449$ for the Yakima showdown, I would just go with the hullavator (479$ xt version 649$ new version).

 

...Anyone got a pair of old non working struts hullavator they wanna give away?

 Okay jrsuperman, I'm listening. Why should I go with the Hullavator?
Price point is not one of my considerations. $500 vs $1000 does not matter. Im looking to get what is best for my ops.  Do you believe that the Hullavator is superior to the Showdown?
You may have more experience than I do loading kayaks and I appreciate the help.


If you look around, you should be able to score a Hullavator for less that $650.  With Hullavator, you get a spring-assist when you lift up.  It really depends on your kayak weight and shape.  But if the money is close enough, I would recommend the Hullavator.  In my opinion, this is one of those To Wheeleez Or Not To Wheeleez type of question.  However, I never own the Yakima Showdown before. 

Based on what I saw on YouTube (Rack Outfitters), it appeared the Hullavator offer (slightly) lower loading position than the Showdown.  On some days, it may make a difference, especially when you are not so energetic after a long day. 

Good luck, I believe either way you will be happy.

https://www.prolineracks.com/item/Thule-897XT-Hullavator-Kayak-Load-Assist-Carrier-456

Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: myyak8me on May 05, 2018, 07:44:52 AM
Well stated, Hojo. I've been using my Hullavator to transport my Hobie Outback and it barely fits. The kayak actually is too wide but I make it work. It also exceeds the rack's recommended weight capacity as well. If you don't put the yak on correctly, yes, you can warp or twist the arm. So anything lighter and more narrow than an Outback and you shouldn't encounter any issues like I have. That Jackson Coosa may be a bit too much in my opinion..
Exactly my experience with the Outback on the Hullivator.  I only use a trailer now for the Outback. It’s just a whole lot easier for me.  We do transport Hobie Revo 13’s with the Hullivator and two of those fit perfect.  I have the Hullivator on my Chevy Silverado. 


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hydrospider on October 15, 2018, 01:33:18 PM
 I had initially decided to go with the Showdown after only doing my web searches and info gathering.
Fortunately I live in a place that has a regular parade of racks and gear rolling through. I was able to see the Showdown and it wasn't as low profile as I had hoped. The Hullavator appears to have a better grip on the boats and as I have now arrived at 50, I decided to take that 40 pounds of lift assist.
I chose the Hullavator pro as my rack and after a series of adventures, I am happy with my purchase.
Thanks to those who offered their opinions.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hojoman on October 15, 2018, 02:15:05 PM
I had initially decided to go with the Showdown after only doing my web searches and info gathering.
Fortunately I live in a place that has a regular parade of racks and gear rolling through. I was able to see the Showdown and it wasn't as low profile as I had hoped. The Hullavator appears to have a better grip on the boats and as I have now arrived at 50, I decided to take that 40 pounds of lift assist.
I chose the Hullavator pro as my rack and after a series of adventures, I am happy with my purchase.
Thanks to those who offered their opinions.
Your cradle width capacity is increased on the Pro.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Cabeza de Martillo on October 15, 2018, 02:22:55 PM
I love my Hullivators except when they decide to lockup and not engage or disengage. Also when they decide to spring back while unloading the kayak.

Doesn't happen all the time but if you anticipate it happening then at least you are expecting the worst. It can totally jack you and or your yak up if you aren't ready.
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: pmmpete on October 15, 2018, 03:21:46 PM
I'm a wimpy old guy, and I load my Revolution on top of my SUV from the side, using a towel to protect my vehicle, as shown in my post at http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=19202.msg204958#msg204958.  It's easy to do. I'm also a cheap old guy, and couldn't stomach coughing up hundreds of dollars for a kayak loading assist device.  The cost of my towel and bungie cord was under $10. 
Title: Re: Thule Hullavator vs Yakima Showdown
Post by: Hydrospider on October 15, 2018, 05:27:36 PM
I love my Hullivators except when they decide to lockup and not engage or disengage. Also when they decide to spring back while unloading the kayak.

 Thanks. Ill be aware that this can happen, but so far, all ops are smooth.