I’m using this rack which is removable
I’m using this rack to transport my canoe. It says it will haul kayaks too.
I like it because it is removable and I can load the canoe easily by myself due to the rollers.
http://www.soggybottomoutfitters.net/truckrack/
Low lift method
I’ve tried the extended rack but don’t trust following drivers, especially in the dark. I had one kayak rammed in daylight with a caution flag dangling from it.
I devised a rig that doesn’t require an overhead lift. I have one crossbar on the cab and use a Yakima Drydock in the hitch, although any upright will do. I shoulder the boat and carry it to the middle of the tailgate with the kayak parallel to the gate. Then, I lower it onto the bed rails (I drape a couple mechanic’s fender protectors over them although towels or something else would suffice). Then, I climb into the bed, lift the boat high enough to clear the cradles (about waist high), turn and drop the boat into place. Photo link: http://tinyurl.com/oudg6po
Pickup truck simplicity
We load our two 10’ Tarpons in our short Honda Ridgeline, tailgate down - one face up, one face down - secured to truck tie-down by LoopRope with clip, passed through both front carry-straps, then back to opposite tie-down with clip. Takes about a minute - and the key is the LoopRopes - bungees with “loops” on steroids, will NOT break! They can be used for any length, no more doubling over or hoping they don’t slip off. Best kayak-helping product we’ve ever purchased! www.looprope.com