10 Feb

Our Review: Thule Hull-a-Port XTR Kayak Rack System

February 10, 2026
By premieracmech@gmail.com
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Our Review: Thule Hull-a-Port XTR Kayak Rack System

After spending several weekends testing the Thule Hull-a-Port XTR, we’re impressed with its thoughtful design and functionality. This J-style rack arrives pre-assembled, saving valuable setup time at the start of your adventure. We particularly appreciate how it folds flat when not in use, significantly reducing wind noise and improving gas mileage during everyday driving.

The ability to carry two kayaks on a single system is a major plus for our team outings, and the universal mounting system fit perfectly on our variety of test vehicles with load bars up to 80.5mm wide. The locking mechanism gave us peace of mind when stopping for lunch during our transport trips.

While it’s priced at the higher end of the market, we found the durability, ease of use, and security features make the Hull-a-Port XTR a worthwhile investment for serious paddling enthusiasts.

14 Jan

Exterior Accessories

EZ Kayak Loading: Our Review of Suspenz V-Rack Carrier

January 14, 2026
By premieracmech@gmail.com
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EZ Kayak Loading: Our Review of Suspenz V-Rack Carrier

We recently got our hands on the Suspenz Kayak Roof Rack with Tie Down Straps (44-0166), and it’s definitely changed our kayaking routine. The EZ Roller V-Rack design makes loading our kayaks onto the car significantly easier than traditional carriers. What impressed us most was how the rollers allow us to slide our kayak up without awkward lifting or straining.

The included tie-down straps proved sturdy and reliable during our testing, even on windier drives along the coast. Installation was straightforward, taking us about 30 minutes without any specialized tools. We particularly appreciated the powder-coated steel construction, which feels like it will withstand seasons of salt water exposure.

For anyone tired of struggling with kayak loading or concerned about potential roof damage, we found this V-Rack system to be a worthwhile investment that delivers on its “EZ” promise.

25 Dec

Exterior Accessories

We Tested the TOOENJOY Heavy-Duty Kayak Lift Assist

December 25, 2025
By Drivecraft
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We Tested the TOOENJOY Heavy-Duty Kayak Lift Assist

After struggling with loading our kayaks for years, we were eager to try the TOOENJOY Heavy-Duty Kayak Lift Assist Roof Rack. With its impressive 100-pound capacity, this rooftop loader significantly reduced our loading effort. The elevating assist system worked smoothly, allowing us to position our 80-pound tandem kayak with minimal strain. We appreciated the sturdy construction and weather-resistant materials that held up during our three-month testing period.

Installation took about 45 minutes, requiring only basic tools. The mechanism operates through a balanced pulley system that transforms the lifting process from a back-straining ordeal into a manageable task. Our team particularly valued the safety locks that kept everything secure during loading. While the price is higher than standard racks, the reduced physical strain and potential injury prevention make it worthwhile for regular paddlers or those with heavier watercraft.

20 Nov

Exterior Accessories

YAKIMA KeelOver: Our Go-To Canoe Rack for Easy Adventures

November 20, 2025
By premieracmech@gmail.com
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YAKIMA KeelOver: Our Go-To Canoe Rack for Easy Adventures

After testing numerous canoe racks over the years, we’ve finally found our perfect match with the YAKIMA KeelOver. This rooftop mounted rack has become our trusted companion for weekend paddling trips. What impressed us most was how securely it holds a single canoe while still being remarkably easy to load and unload.

The padded saddles cradle the hull perfectly, eliminating worries about damage during transport, while the sturdy straps keep everything locked down even on bumpy backroads. We’ve found the installation process straightforward-it fits seamlessly with our existing crossbars.

For those who venture out frequently, the convenience factor cannot be overstated. The KeelOver’s thoughtful design means less struggling in parking lots and more time enjoying the water. If you’re looking for reliability without complexity, this rack has earned our wholehearted recommendation.

15 Aug

Exterior Accessories

We Tested the Thule Portage: Your Canoe’s New Best Friend

August 15, 2025
By Drivecraft
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We recently put the Thule Portage Canoe roof rack through its paces, and it quickly impressed our testing team. The single-canoe carrier features an intelligently designed loading shape that made getting our 16-foot canoe onto our SUV surprisingly effortless. We particularly appreciated the weather-resistant padding, which provided excellent protection for our canoe’s hull while preventing scratches during transport.

The included load straps deserve special mention – they’re remarkably durable and feature a thoughtful anti-scratch cover that protected both our canoe and vehicle. During our 200-mile testing journey, which included some rough backroads and highway driving, the Thule Portage kept our canoe firmly secured without any shifting or concerning noises.

For paddling enthusiasts seeking a reliable, user-friendly roof rack system, our testing confirms the Thule Portage delivers exceptional performance with thoughtful design elements that make canoe transport remarkably straightforward.

23 Jul

Exterior Accessories

We Test the Thule Hullavator Pro: Kayaking Made Easy

After three months of testing the Thule Hullavator Pro, we’re convinced this kayak carrier is a game-changer for paddling enthusiasts. The gas-assisted struts did the heavy lifting, reducing the kayak’s weight by up to 40 pounds when loading. We particularly appreciated how the carrier lowers the kayak by 24 inches to the side of our vehicle, eliminating awkward overhead lifting.

Installation was straightforward, though the unit is admittedly hefty at 56 pounds. The corrosion-resistant aluminum construction held up beautifully during our coastal adventures where salt exposure is constant.

What impressed us most was the stability during transport-even on windy highways, our kayak remained firmly secured with the eight touch points of padded support. While the $850 price tag represents a significant investment, the back-saving design and durability make it worthwhile for serious kayakers who hit the water regularly.

13 Jul

Exterior Accessories

YAKIMA JayLow: Our Top Pick for Versatile Kayak Transport

After testing numerous kayak racks this season, we’ve found the YAKIMA JayLow to be exceptionally impressive. This rooftop carrier offers remarkable flexibility with both J-cradle and stacker positions, allowing us to transport either one boat in the J-cradle or two in the stacker configuration. We appreciate how the tool-free installation made setup a breeze on our crossbars, while the padded contact points ensure our kayaks remain scratch-free during transit. The integrated SKS (Same Key System) locks provide peace of mind when we need to make stops along the way. What really sets the JayLow apart is its folding design-when not in use, it collapses down to minimize wind noise and improve clearance for garages. For paddlers seeking a reliable, adaptable transportation solution, we highly recommend the YAKIMA JayLow.