Transporting your kayak from your vehicle to the water’s edge can be the most challenging part of your adventure. A reliable kayak carrier is essential for protecting your gear and saving your energy. Whether you need a trolley to navigate sandy beaches or a sturdy roof rack for highway travel, the right carrier makes all the difference.
This roundup focuses on versatile ABN universal carriers and other top-rated options to suit various needs. We have evaluated models based on durability, weight capacity, ease of use, and terrain compatibility. Our goal is to help you find the perfect carrier to get you on the water quickly and safely, so you can focus on the journey ahead.
Our Top Picks for ABN Universal Kayak Carriers
- ABN Universal Kayak Carrier 2-Pack – Trolley for Carrying Kayaks
- Bonnlo Universal Kayak Carrier – Trolley with Solid Tires
- Taelakeni 2 Pairs Kayak Carrier Racks, Universal Cars Roof J Bar
- MorTime 27″ Heavy Duty Kayak Cart, Universal Kayak Carrier
- SUDOO Folding Kayak Roof Rack for 2 Kayaks Universal Carrier
- FORWODE Premium Kayak Roof Rack, 2 Pair J-Bar Roof Rack
- ABN Universal Kayak Carrier – Trolley for Carrying Kayaks
- ABN 4-Piece J Rack Kayak Carrier System with Pads
- ABN Heavy Duty Universal Roof Rack Kayak Holder
ABN Universal Kayak Carrier 2-Pack – Trolley for Carrying Kayaks
This two-pack from ABN offers exceptional value for paddlers who need to transport more than one vessel or want a backup. The carrier is built for practicality, designed to move your kayak, canoe, paddleboard, float mat, or jon boat with ease. Its high-strength anodized steel frame provides a robust 200-pound weight limit while keeping the unit’s own weight manageable at just 8 pounds.
The 9.5-inch knobby tires are a key feature, as they are easy to inflate and provide smooth rolling performance across challenging surfaces. Whether you are traversing soft sand, loose gravel, or wooded paths, these tires help reduce the effort required. This combination of durability and terrain versatility makes it a reliable choice for various water access points.
Bonnlo Universal Kayak Carrier – Trolley with Solid Tires
The Bonnlo Universal Kayak Carrier stands out with its inflation-free solid PU tires. You will never have to worry about a flat tire slowing you down on your way to the water. The large-diameter 10-inch by 3-inch wide tires roll smoothly over sand, lawns, and other rough terrain, providing consistent performance trip after trip.
Constructed with a larger diameter aluminum pipe and anodized stainless steel, this cart has a solid 200-pound capacity. A significant advantage is its foldable design, which allows for easy assembly and compact storage. You can quickly break it down to fit in your car’s trunk or even pack it into your kayak’s hatches for portage during longer trips.
Taelakeni 2 Pairs Kayak Carrier Racks
For secure vehicle transport, the Taelakeni J-Bar racks offer a practical solution. This set of two pairs is designed to mount on virtually all crossbars and load bars on the market, though it is not compatible with round bars. The classic J-shaped design cradles your kayak, canoe, or SUP securely during travel.
Built from high-quality steel with a smooth baking finish, these racks have stronger anti-corrosion ability and are not easy to rust, ensuring a longer service life. With a carrying capacity of 150 pounds, they are versatile enough to handle different items, including ski boards and snowboards, making them a multi-seasonal accessory for your outdoor adventures.
MorTime 27″ Heavy Duty Kayak Cart
The MorTime Kayak Trolley is engineered for stability and user convenience. It features a sturdy aluminum frame and a double-leg kickstand that can withstand up to 165 pounds. The spring-loaded kickstand allows you to load your kayak or fold the trolley quickly without any tools, which is a major benefit at the launch site.
This model is equipped with large 10-inch by 3-inch solid knobby tires made from high-quality PU material. These airless tires roll smoothly across sand, gravel, and wooded areas. Thoughtful design elements include multiple fulcrums for better load-bearing and foam bumper pads on each arm to protect your vessel from dents and scratches during transport.
SUDOO Folding Kayak Roof Rack for 2 Kayaks
SUDOO’s roof rack system is designed with flexibility and efficiency in mind. Its ingeniously foldable design means that when not in use for transporting your kayak, it folds completely flat against your vehicle’s roof. This reduces wind resistance, which can help with fuel efficiency, and also lowers the overall height of your vehicle for garage clearance.
The rack is easy to assemble with a folding design, and the product page provides a helpful installation video for guidance. It is crucial to pay attention to the hole positions on the tube pipe during assembly for correct setup. This universal carrier is suitable for cars, trucks, and SUVs, offering a versatile transport solution for two kayaks.
FORWODE Premium Kayak Roof Rack
The FORWODE roof rack features an upgraded, thickened design for maximum security. Its frame is constructed from high-strength carbon steel with a thickened tube wall and a 25mm diameter, making it both light and strong. This rust-resistant build can support two heavy kayaks up to 160 pounds and is durable enough to remain on your car roof long-term.
A standout feature is the fold design, which uses a handle to adjust the rack from 0 to 180 degrees, allowing it to adapt to different kayak shapes. The adjustment mechanism is made of carbon steel, not plastic, ensuring firmness and reliability. The package includes a comprehensive set of straps and even a specially designed position for your paddle.
ABN Universal Kayak Carrier – Trolley for Carrying Kayaks
This single-unit ABN trolley offers the same reliable performance as the two-pack model. It is a practical tool for moving your kayak, canoe, paddleboard, float mat, or jon boat from your vehicle to the shore. The high-strength anodized steel construction ensures longevity while supporting up to 200 pounds.
Weighing only 8 pounds, it is easy to handle and store. The 9.5-inch knobby tires are easy to inflate and are engineered for smooth movement across rough surfaces like sand, gravel, and through wooded areas. This carrier simplifies the often strenuous task of transporting your watercraft, saving your energy for paddling.
ABN 4-Piece J Rack Kayak Carrier System with Pads
This ABN system provides a complete roof-mounted transport solution with four J-racks. The set is designed to securely hold your kayaks on your vehicle’s crossbars. The inclusion of pads is a critical feature, as they protect your kayak’s hull from scratches and damage during transit, ensuring your gear arrives at your destination in perfect condition.
The J-rack design is a popular and efficient method for transporting kayaks, as it lifts them onto their side, allowing you to carry multiple boats without requiring excessive width. This system is built for durability and security, giving you confidence on the road. It is an excellent choice for paddlers who frequently travel with more than one kayak.
ABN Heavy Duty Universal Roof Rack Kayak Holder
For those needing a robust and universal roof solution, the ABN Heavy Duty Kayak Holder is a strong contender. This carrier is engineered to be compatible with a wide range of vehicles and crossbar systems. Its universal design focuses on providing a secure and stable platform for your kayak during highway speeds and long-distance travel.
The heavy-duty construction suggests a high weight capacity and resilience against the elements. ABN’s attention to durability means this holder is built to last, season after season. It is an ideal option for adventurers who require a no-fuss, reliable method for getting their kayak to distant lakes and rivers safely.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best ABN Universal Kayak Carrier
So, you’re looking at the ABN Universal Kayak Carrier. It’s a popular choice, and for good reason. But before you click “add to cart,” let’s talk about what makes a good carrier and how to make sure this one, or any other, is the right fit for your setup. I’ve transported my fair share of kayaks, and getting the right carrier makes all the difference between a relaxing drive and a stressful one.
First up, think about your vehicle. Do you have a roof rack already? The ABN carrier is designed to strap onto factory-installed crossbars or aftermarket roof racks. If you don’t have a rack, you’ll need to look into a different system altogether. Check the weight capacity of both your vehicle’s roof rack and the carrier itself. The ABN model typically holds a good amount of weight, but you always need to make sure the combined weight of your kayaks doesn’t exceed your car’s limits.
Next, consider your kayak. Is it a sleek, narrow touring kayak or a wide, stable fishing kayak? The J-cradle style of the ABN Universal Kayak Carrier is great for many shapes because it cradles the hull. However, if you have a very wide or oddly shaped kayak, you’ll want to double-check the dimensions. Also, think about how many you need to carry. This carrier is sold as a single unit, so for two kayaks, you’re buying two carriers. Some other brands sell them in pairs, so keep that in mind for your budget.
The padding is a big deal. You don’t want your prized kayak getting scratched or dented. Look for thick, durable foam padding that will protect the hull. The ABN usually comes with decent padding, but I always give it a quick inspection for thickness and durability. The strapping system is another critical component. You want strong, UV-resistant straps with robust buckles that won’t slip or loosen on the highway. A bow and stern tie-down are non-negotiable for extra security; the carrier is just part of the holding system.
Finally, think about ease of use. Can you load the kayak onto the carrier by yourself? The low-profile design of many J-cradles can help with a solo load. Look for features that make strapping down straightforward and secure. At the end of the day, the goal is a secure transport for your kayak, giving you peace of mind on the road to your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the ABN Universal Kayak Carrier fit on my car’s roof rack?
Yes, in most cases. The ABN carrier is designed to be universal, meaning it should attach to most factory-installed crossbars or aftermarket roof racks using the provided straps. The key is that you must have existing crossbars on your vehicle. It does not attach directly to a bare roof or to the side rails of a vehicle without crossbars.
How do I properly secure my kayak with this carrier?
First, position the carrier on your crossbars. Place your kayak securely into the J-cradles. Then, use the main straps to tightly secure the kayak to the carrier by wrapping them over the kayak and through the carrier’s frame. Finally, and this is crucial, you must always use separate bow and stern tie-down straps. These attach from the front and back of your kayak to the front and rear of your vehicle’s frame or tow hooks. This prevents the kayak from shifting forward or backward during sudden stops.
Can I carry two kayaks with these carriers?
Absolutely. Since the ABN Universal Kayak Carrier is sold as a single unit, you would need to purchase two of them. You would then mount one carrier on each side of your roof rack. This setup allows you to transport two kayaks side-by-side securely. Just be sure your roof rack’s weight capacity can handle the combined weight of both kayaks and both carriers.
What is the weight capacity of the ABN kayak carrier?
The specific weight capacity can vary slightly by model year, but generally, the ABN Universal Kayak Carrier has a capacity of around 100 to 120 pounds per carrier. It is essential to check the product specifications on the listing you are purchasing from to confirm the exact limit. Also, remember to verify your vehicle’s roof rack capacity, as that is often the limiting factor.
Is the padding sufficient to prevent scratches?
The foam padding on the ABN carrier is typically quite thick and effective at preventing scratches and protecting the kayak’s hull from direct contact with the hard plastic frame. However, for extra protection, especially on a long journey or with a brand new kayak, I sometimes recommend giving the hull a quick wipe-down to remove any grit before loading it and consider using an additional soft cloth or kayak pad where the hull meets the carrier.
Can I use this carrier for other items, like a canoe or a SUP board?
While it’s specifically designed for kayaks, the universal J-cradle design can often accommodate a canoe or a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), provided they fit securely within the cradle and can be strapped down properly. The key is the shape and width of the item. A canoe with a similar hull shape to a kayak would work, but a very wide or flat SUP might not be as stable. Always ensure the item is secured with bow and stern lines.