First Impressions of Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension
The Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension promises to solve a common problem for avid paddlers: the need to transport multiple kayaks safely and efficiently. Rhino Rack, a trusted name in roof rack solutions, offers this extension to their existing J-style carriers, potentially doubling your kayak-carrying capacity. This product immediately piqued my interest as someone who frequently embarks on kayaking trips with family and friends.
My usual predicament involves carefully Tetris-ing kayaks onto the roof of my vehicle, often resulting in a precarious and anxiety-inducing journey. The promise of securely and easily carrying more than one kayak with the Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension was certainly appealing. Unboxing the extension revealed a robust steel construction, coated in a durable black finish. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a sturdy build quality, though at 13.8 lbs, it’s not exactly lightweight.
I considered other options like stacking carriers, but the Rhino Rack solution seemed more stable and less prone to slippage, especially on longer drives. Another option was purchasing a second set of complete kayak carriers, however the Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension at $73.14 presents a much more affordable, space-saving solution. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the build quality looked promising, and the concept seemed well-executed. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype on the road.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension on a weekend kayaking trip to a local lake about an hour’s drive away. The extension was mounted onto my existing Rhino Rack J-style carriers (S512 models) without much difficulty. The provided hardware seemed sturdy, and the instructions were relatively clear.
The weather was slightly windy that day, creating a bit of a challenge. With two kayaks secured on the roof – one in the original carrier and one in the extension – I immediately noticed the increased stability compared to previous attempts at carrying two kayaks without the extension. There was minimal sway or wobble, even when encountering crosswinds. The Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension provided a secure and reassuring platform.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension has proven to be a reliable addition to my kayaking setup. I’ve taken it on longer road trips, exposed it to rain and sun, and even accidentally scraped it against a low-hanging branch. Despite the wear and tear, the steel construction has held up remarkably well.
The black coating shows some minor scratches, but there’s no sign of rust or significant damage. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous experiences of transporting kayaks, the Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension offers significantly improved stability and peace of mind. It’s a noticeable upgrade that has made kayaking trips much less stressful.
Breaking Down the Features of Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension
Specifications
Manufacturer: Rhino Rack.
Weight: 13.8 lb.
Load Capacity: 30Kg (approximately 66 lbs).
Color: Black.
Fabric/Material: Stainless Steel.
Last Chance: Yes (referring to limited availability or promotion).
The weight of 13.8 lbs is substantial, indicating a robust steel construction, which is crucial for safely securing valuable kayaks. The 30kg load capacity is adequate for most recreational kayaks, but it’s important to check your kayak’s weight before loading. The stainless steel construction ensures resistance to corrosion, essential for outdoor gear exposed to the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension performs admirably in its intended function: securely carrying an additional kayak alongside an existing J-style carrier. The extension adds a stable and reliable support point, preventing excessive sway or wobble during transport. While it effectively doubles the carrying capacity, ensuring the combined weight of the kayaks doesn’t exceed your roof rack’s limit is crucial.
One potential improvement would be a slightly more streamlined design to minimize wind resistance at highway speeds. However, the overall performance is excellent, significantly enhancing the safety and convenience of transporting multiple kayaks. It easily meets my expectations for a product designed to address the specific challenge of transporting multiple kayaks, providing a secure, stable, and reliable solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension features a functional and straightforward design. The stainless steel construction provides a robust and durable base. While the weight could be a consideration for some, it contributes to the overall stability and feeling of security.
The universal mounting system is a thoughtful addition, ensuring compatibility with various crossbar shapes. The extension has a low learning curve; once mounted, it’s simply a matter of securing the kayak with straps.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension suggests a long lifespan. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water should be sufficient to prevent corrosion and maintain its appearance. The black coating offers an additional layer of protection against the elements.
Periodic inspection of the mounting hardware is recommended to ensure a secure fit. With proper care and maintenance, this extension should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension does not come with additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. The primary customization lies in the adjustability of the mounting brackets to fit different crossbar sizes and shapes. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Rhino Rack J-style kayak carriers (specifically the S512 model).
While there are no specific customization options, users can enhance the system with higher-quality straps or padding for added kayak protection. Its compatibility with standard roof rack crossbars allows for integration with other accessories like tie-down points or load stops.
Pros and Cons of Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension
Pros
- Provides a secure and stable platform for carrying an additional kayak.
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Universal mounting system compatible with various crossbar shapes.
- Affordable solution compared to purchasing a complete second kayak carrier.
- Easy to install and use, with minimal learning curve.
Cons
- Can increase wind resistance and potentially affect fuel economy.
- The 13.8 lb weight is substantial and may require assistance for installation.
Who Should Buy Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension?
The Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension is perfect for kayaking enthusiasts who frequently transport multiple kayaks. Families, groups of friends, or kayak rental businesses can all benefit from the increased carrying capacity and stability this extension provides. Anyone seeking a safe, reliable, and affordable way to carry two kayaks on a single vehicle will find this product highly valuable.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who rarely need to transport more than one kayak. Those with very small or lightweight vehicles might also want to consider the added weight and wind resistance. Must-have accessories include high-quality kayak straps and potentially bow and stern tie-down straps for added security, especially on longer trips.
Conclusion on Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension
The Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension offers a practical and cost-effective solution for transporting multiple kayaks. Its durable construction, universal mounting system, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for avid paddlers. While it may slightly impact fuel economy due to increased wind resistance, the added convenience and stability far outweigh this drawback.
At $73.14, the price is justified, considering the quality of materials and the added peace of mind it provides. I would confidently recommend the Rhino Rack Folding J Style Kayak Carrier Extension to anyone looking to safely and efficiently transport two kayaks on their vehicle. Upgrade your kayaking experience today and enjoy the freedom of bringing more kayaks along for the adventure!