Yakima ShowBoat 66 Kayak Rack

I have just finished installing the ShowBoat on the car and have only loaded the boat once for practice. I would have liked two stop collars instead of just one. The driver side bar wants to slide forward more and I have stretched the bars out to max allowed. So far I think the unit will protect the rear edge of the back door of the van just fine. It is just long enough for the Sienna Mini Van - it barely covers the area needed, but the kayak will not be in contact straight up and down. I expect the rating could be a five once I have used it a while.

2015 Toyota Sienna dual door

I purchased the showboat so I could load my Frenzy ocean kayak on my vehicleinstead of squeezing it inside. Had it installed and haveused it 3 times and found I need a spotter while I load my kayak since I lift the full weight of it straight up onto the roll bar. Had I seen one and given it a try I would not have purchased it. I kayak with a group so someone is always there to help but when I get home I am struggling to pull it back far enough to tip it off the back....I have to use a small ladder to reach and that means I am on the ladder while pulling the kayak off. I have slipped once off the bottom step while I had the kayak on the showboat roller and drenched my back. The unit works fine but not for a short person. If anyone is thinking of purchasing this consider finding someone who has one and give it a try. Wish I had.

2013 Ford Explorer