Garage Storage Options

Ideal storage position is on the side. I'd just tilt the boats so they're not resting on the keel.

+1
Hands down the best way to store them.

Z

Ideal storage position is on the side. I'd just tilt the boats so they're not resting on the keel.

+1
Hands down the best way to store them.

Why?  How is it the boat is more rigid on its side than upright?  Does it change the equation if hanging from wide straps rather than sitting on a hard surface?

From an engineering standpoint, it makes sense that it's stronger from the side.  It's kind of like a 2x4.  It's stronger if you put force against the narrow edge.  

In my situation though, my space is limited, so I think I'll run additional 2x4s down the length of the hull to give added support.  I have noticed some minor bowing, but on the middle, not the ends, and adding a support down the middle should nip that in the butt.  It's probably not doing the frown face because I built the two supports really far apart.

Edit:  On second thought, I think I'll pick up some 1.5" steel pipe, and run it down the two channels that are cut into the bottom of the hull.  That should keep it nice and straight!

I can see the bow and the stern of your tarpon 160 sagging lower than the mid section in the pics! Especially hanging a cart on the end.

Just need to tilt them so they're not resting on the keel.

Edit:  On second thought, I think I'll pick up some 1.5" steel pipe, and run it down the two channels that are cut into the bottom of the hull.  That should keep it nice and straight!

That will work too, or just tilt them 30 degrees so they're touching at  the side and the keel.

Why?  How is it the boat is more rigid on its side than upright?  Does it change the equation if hanging from wide straps rather than sitting on a hard surface?

Think arches. The most effective way to support a load. The round rail of a kayak is just the inverse of that arch. The biggest danger about laying flat is that the arch of the bottom of the kayak is too gradual so gives little to no support. The scuppers, cylindrical posts, are very rigid so you have to opposing forces. That leads to stress around the scuppers and cracks. And since we don't go checking the bottom of our kayaks normally and it's the furthest you can go below the waterline it's very dangerous. I know a few people who's yaks took on water this way and got into big trouble.

If hanging like you mentioned I'd say to hang them upside down. The tight curves of the cockpit give a lot more support from sagging than the bottom.

Z