How to car-top a Hobie AI and save rack space!

Here's how I safely transport my Hobie AI to maximize rack space.  This upside-down piggy-back method allows me to transport two AI's with my 66" crossbars.  I use two small strips of velcro to connect the two amas which makes them easier to carry together and lift overhead.  The amas lay neatly on bottom the hull, and I run the rear strap through the rear ama holes to prevent any chance of slippage.  The sail/mast is simply wedged against the hulled, and it's all strapped together with just the two straps.  You can crank down on the straps, and it won't harm a thing or deform the hull.

I've transported my AI this way for over nearly 3,000 miles now without any problems.  For an extra level of comfort in strong crosswinds, you can run a line from the bow and/or stern handles to your car bumper, as you would with any long kayak, to prevent shifting.



(Note:  Pic #2 doesn't show the ends of the amas connected together.  I took that pic before I started using the velcro strips. )

Someday...   

Thx for sharing your technology, Chuck.   

Thanks Chuck for the clarity and the photos. This looks like it will make transporting for me a lot safer and smoother. 

Don

I need to start making up some AI trailers for all you new sailors!

I need to start making up some AI trailers for all you new sailors!

 

I need to start making up some AI trailers for all you new sailors!

No Trailers....Like RockHopper says....I can't drive 55!!   Great set up Chuck. I am making a six inch tube to put the two masts inside (bags included) that should protect the sails on the Loooong Journeys we have planned.

i was wondering how you ai guys travel,how long does it take you to setup and take down

For me the set up and take down was only a couple of minute longer. Usually there is an extra carry from the car ( but I can still fit it on a single cart trip). I thought that it was going to be some multi-hour thing....man was I wrong.  Once you have it down and on autopilot it is fast and effortless

I was amazed on how easy set up and take down was on the AI's. Heck it all fits on the kayak for easy transport over land as well as car top.

Believe it or not everything needed to launch is on the kayak in the picture below including the lock for the wheels....one trip from car to launch and back again.

Good point Allen.  Good pic too.

My piggy-back loading method is now at over 5,500 miles of testing.  I'm even more convinced it's the best way to car-top AI's.

My old Volvo transported these two AI's on a 2,500 mile Baja road trip without a glitch.

My piggy-back loading method....

Show us the details on the next clinic. I'm pretty sure it will be beneficial.

Speaking of "clinics"....when are you going to schedule one in Loreto?

Speaking of "clinics"....when are you going to schedule one in Loreto?

I'm going to have Dorado Bob teach the "How to Retire in Baja and Be Happy" clinic.

I can muscle my revo  up on my car, but the AI is too heavy.  I need to make some kind of roller thing that I can slide it up from behind then guide it on top.  Anyone as weak as me
and has come up with a solution?