>>For those who want to hike on the xbar and Akas, roofrack pads fit on these perfectly and really take the bite out of them.
I use the high quality 28- 30" surfrack pads made of the heavy fadeproof material and the densest foam. Something like these:
http://www.essentialsurf.com/ikorb.php?func=catalog&category_id=79&product_id=15618You will like how they have squared tops, can velcro to the middle section of the Hobie bars and feature tiedown bungee ends.
In fact, I leave the rear xbar pad on ALL the time now and add one to the front xbar whenever I transport and store the AI. They provide added protection when cartopping and flipping the yak over on the roof. Have prevented a few concussions as well, (know what I mean?)
For the xbraces I have pieces of 3/4" foam pipe insulation to slide over them and will secure them with one-handed velcro.. Going to try these under my tramps tomorrow and see what the tush says.<<
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Worked well. You and your passengers will like them.
Here's a couple picts of the foam sleeves / outrigger pads- before and after the tramps.