bicycles on roof of R27

[Fastbruce]

Hi all, we plan on installing two bikes on the roof of our R27, and touring Portland, the San Juans, BC, etc.
My wife thinks this is too problematic, i.e lifting them up and down and more importantly they may fall of the roof in rough seas! I am trying to convince her this is doable any thoughts, suggestions would be helpful.
Bruce and Debbie "morning light"

 

[CaspersCruiser]

We put two full-size bikes on the roof of our R27 using Thule racks. I have found that with a dock finger alongside, it’s completely doable carrying bikes and getting them on/off. Definitely get lightweight bikes. It makes the on/off process much easier. Here’s our R27 with bikes at Caladesi Island, FL:

 

[Fastbruce]

caspers, how did the bikes handle rough seas ? do they stay firmly on the roof?

 

[CaspersCruiser]

The racks are designed for use on cars so the g’s, bumps, and winds they’re exposed on a Ranger Tug are nothing. The R27 roof racks are a couple inches farther apart than the bike carrier installation specs call for, but they fit fine and we’ve had no issues at all.

 

[baz]

Be sure to wash down those bikes with fresh water thoroughly before using them to remove any salt residues.

Any cross wind will exert some force on those bike frames resulting in more rolling activity, as they are high up and the moment arm to the boat's CG is considerable. Thus, boat/cruise with a full tank of fuel.

 

[brhodes]

We have a 21' and have installed a Thule carrier on the extended hard top. Not an option for you, but we are a "Bruce and Debbie" combo so i couldn't resist replying... Will be testing out this new set up shortly; plan is to keep folding bikes and deck chairs up there.

 

[knotflying]

We have used the west marine port runner folding bikes and were able to fit them in the cave fairly easily. They look brand new after several years of use. I put one across the stern wall of the cave and the other on the port side of the cave by the light. Folded they do not take up too much room. Either storage location , roof or cave, have their issues with taking them out etc. So pick your poison. I like the idea that they are out of the elements and fairly easy to load and unload. However, If it is for a short run I would opt for a courtesy car or perhaps Uber.

 

[quinsky]

I mounted my bike and a Yakima rooftop case on my Cutwater 28. I keep the bike covered. We did an offshore run down the SC coast in 15-20mph winds and 3-4ft seas. It was a bumpy, wet ride but the bike stayed put. The rack slid a little outboard so I had to tighten it up. Be sure to carry chain lube. If your bikes are Chro-moly (steel) be sure to dry them good after rinsing. I dropped a steel bike in the water in the Bahamas and even though I rinsed it well it showed signs of rust after a few months. Spray some WD40 around frame openings, ie. seat post, steerer tube fittings, cable eyelets, brake mounts, and bottom bracket to keep water out.