Compass rudder protection ???

Yes!! Thank you.

I had the same issue...I was cartopping on a crosstrek and nearly broke the rudder when I lifted the bow to load it. Solution (for me anyway): rest bow on the ground...lift stern first so weight is on bow (avoids weight on rudder). Load stern first then slide up....once on the roof rack...swing kayak around so bow is pointed to front of vehicle. Offloading...reverse order.