Canoe on roof or trailer?

[redpoint5]

I'm taking the 16' canoe 3hrs away tomorrow, and haven't decided if I want to transport on the 8' Harbor Freight trailer, or attach to the roof rails.

If I put it on the trailer, then I'll fill most of the boat with camping gear. If I strap it to the roof rails, then I'll attach a cargo basket on the hitch to store the camping gear.

I'm guessing attaching to the roof will have more drag than the rolling resistance of the trailer? My other consideration is I'm increasing the chance of tire/wheel problems by bringing the trailer, and I don't know what the parking situation looks like at the campgrounds at Billy Chinook. On the other hand, I can easily launch the boat myself when it's on the trailer, but I'd need help if it's on the roof.

I did finish the trailer light controller though, so I'd be towing legally/safely.

What is your take?

[freebeard]

With a single trip you'd never know.

A second trip allows A-B testing.

[JSH]

Likely a wash to favoring the trailer depending on how fast you drive the straight sections. In a car the transition point where drag overcomes rolling resistance is about 45 mph. A lot of that road is going to be 45 mph or less if you have any traffic. A lot of the road when you turn off 20 at Black Butte will be slow as well.

A trailer is a lot easier though. Do you have a spare for the trailer?

[redpoint5]

Originally Posted by JSH

Likely a wash to favoring the trailer depending on how fast you drive the straight sections. In a car the transition point where drag overcomes rolling resistance is about 45 mph. A lot of that road is going to be 45 mph or less if you have any traffic. A lot of the road when you turn off 20 at Black Butte will be slow as well.

A trailer is a lot easier though. Do you have a spare for the trailer?

I don't recall ever driving that forest road off 20, though I did kayak the entire Metolius once. Don't recall how I got there. Was hoping it wouldn't have much traffic, or otherwise lend to traveling ~55 MPH.

I don't have a spare for the trailer, but I carry tire plugs and goo (came with van).

Leaning toward roof mounting, though I've never transported this way before. This is mostly to make sure I can fit in standard parking spots.

[freebeard]

So.... how did it go?