We welcome newly and not-so-newly inflatable boat owners. If you’re here, then you’ve realized that dragging a boat to the sea isn’t the most enjoyable task. Something needs to be done, but what? Simply get a pair of wheels, and your problem will be solved.
Here, you will see our boat transom launching wheels reviews on some products that we’ve tested. We’ve made sure to include all features, advantages, and disadvantages we’ve found for each product. Furthermore, we have prepared a buying guide to make your quest for the best boat transom launching wheels even easier.
It’s normal that you have a lot of questions about these products and what are the key factors when choosing a pair of wheels. Don’t worry, and keep reading. We have answered most of the commonly asked questions for you.
Best Boat Transom Launching Wheels Comparison Chart
PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
---|---|---|---|
Seamax Boat Launching Wheels Set |
| View On Amazon | |
Seamax Deluxe Boat Launching Wheels System |
| View On Amazon | |
Brocraft Boat Launching Wheels |
| View On Amazon | |
Inflatable Boat Transom Launching Wheel by BRIS |
| View On Amazon | |
Seamax Boat Carry and Launch Hand Dolly Set |
| View On Amazon | |
AQUOS Aluminum Transom Launching Wheels |
| View On Amazon | |
NICECHOOSE Boat Launching Wheels |
| View On Amazon |
Boat Transom Launching Wheels(Recommended Picks)
Before we begin with the reviews, you should know that we haven’t listed them in a particular order. So now without further ado, here are the reviews that you came for:
1. Seamax Boat Launching Wheels Set
This boat launching set from Seamax is recommended for aluminum, fiberglass and inflatable boats weighing up to 500 pounds. Also, the vessel and transom should be no more than sixteen feet long. The entire assembly has a sturdy construction. It is made from aluminum and stainless steel and has heavy-duty plastic rims. With the pneumatic 12-inch tires, this is a great set to consider buying if it fits your boat’s dimensions.
As soon as you open the box, you can see that this isn’t some shoddy product. You can even adjust the wheels while you’re in the water. There are two adjustment positions, each with 2,5 inches increment. That means that the height ranges from 22 to 28 inches.
Pros
- This wheels set has two years limited warranty on its parts.
- There’s also a 30-day free replacement period for defective units.
- You can use the set in saltwater without worrying about damages.
- If you drop them in water, the wheels will float.
Cons
- None that we could find.
2. Seamax Deluxe Boat Launching Wheels System
The deluxe boat launching system from Seamax has 14-inch wheels with a width of tire about 4 inches. Respectively, these can also support a bigger load than the previous model. This deluxe system supports boats up to 600 lbs. The product is made from marine-grade aluminum alloy and has an anodized coating to prevent corrosion. You can use this set to carry fiberglass, inflatable, and aluminum boats.
This new and improved model has four-wheel arm positions. You can adjust the positions even while you’re still afloat.
If you’re looking for a system that’s easy to set up, this can be the one for you as it takes no more than twenty minutes to complete.
Pros
- These wheels hold up against UV rays, heat, and saltwater.
- The set comes with 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed.
- It also has two years manufacturer warranty.
- This deluxe system has four-ply reinforced vehicle grade natural rubber wheels.
Cons
- No considerable disadvantages.
3. Brocraft Boat Launching Wheels
This product consists of standard 12-inch wheels for boat launching from Brocraft. They have an angled frame design and lock when they’re not being used. That design gives better support to the boat and also doesn’t interfere with the motor. The maximum load capacity this system can endure is 500 pounds.
These wheels are simple to install and effortless to use but a bit pricey. They are well built from marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel. You can attach this boat launching set to any transom, even a wood one.
To sum up, the set is sturdy and durable. Its locking feature is helpful and keeps the wheels out of the way when you don’t need them.
Pros
- The product comes with two years warranty.
- All hardware is included in the box.
- The pull pins are cabled down so you won’t lose them.
Cons
- The steel button that operates the system is hard to press with one hand.
4. Inflatable Boat Transom Launching Wheel by BRIS
BRIS presents us with boat launching wheels set that is designed for inflatable boats. The wheels themselves are solid and quite large. Their diameter is 15 inches, and they are also very thick – 4 inches. The set doesn’t come with instructions, although the installation is pretty simple and can be done without them.
Made to carry a maximum of 300 pounds, these are for more lightweight boats. And if yours is within this range, you should consider these wheels as they are sturdy and come at a reasonable price. You can use this set over sand, grass, or rocks. However, you should know that these aren’t recommended to be towed behind a car.
These wheels are absolutely a must-have item for any inflatable boat. They make launching your craft so much easier. Plus, they are very well-crafted, sturdy, and effortless to use.
Pros
- All hardware and lock pins are included in the box.
- This set is ideal for smaller aluminum and inflatable boats.
Cons
- You can’t let the wheels down while you’re still afloat.
5. Seamax Boat Carry and Launch Hand Dolly Set
Seamax offers an entire boat carrier and launch set. It includes two 16-inch wheels, an extendable pole with length ranging from 8 to 10 ft. The kit can be used for inflatable, fiberglass or aluminum boats that are no longer than 15 feet.
It takes you no more than fifteen minutes to assemble or disassemble this dolly set. Keep in mind that the maximum speed for the dolly is about 6 mph. Also, the maximum load you can use this product is 250 lbs.
This boat launching hand dolly is lightweight, and it makes maneuvering easy. The construction is made of regular steel, not stainless, and has a powder coating. That’s why we recommend rinsing the dolly after getting it wet with saltwater.
Pros
- There’s a free 1 -7/8 inches trailer coupler for off-road.
- You can adjust the hull support bunks.
- You have 30 days period for free replacement on defective parts after purchase.
Cons
- This set isn’t meant to be towed behind a car on a regular road.
6. AQUOS Aluminum Transom Launching Wheels
These are 15-inch pneumatic wheels from AQUOS, which are ideal for carrying and launching smaller boats into the water. Their construction is made of heavy-duty marine-grade aluminum and can endure even saltwater, but of course, you need to rinse them as soon as possible. These wheels are four inches thick, and the maximum weight they can support is 300 pounds. That is a decent weight limit and enough for an inflatable boat or raft.
This set is not intended to use on traditional roads or being towed. However, you can use it on grass, dirt, hard sand. The product is perfect for one man to launch an inflatable boat. Also, it is reasonably priced and very sturdy, definitely worth considering.
Pros
- You can use these wheels on soft sand.
- Everything needed for the installation comes with wheels.
Cons
- There isn’t an instruction manual in the box.
7. NICECHOOSE Boat Launching Wheels
This product is from NICECHOOSE, and it’s a boat launching system with wheels that is intended for smaller inflatable boats. The design is very appropriate as the wheels are small and stout compared to the rest from our list. Their exact dimensions are ten inches in diameter and three inches thick. You can use this set on grass, sand, or dirt, but not on a regular road. What is more, they come in a lovely blue color. Also, you shouldn’t tow them behind any kind of vehicle.
What is more, the maximum load capacity for these wheels is 300 pounds, which is standard and more than enough for an inflatable boat. However, keep in mind that the maximum length of the ship should be about 13 feet only.
Pros
- The brackets are made from stainless steel, unlike some of the products on this list.
- Lock pins and all necessary hardware are included in the box.
Cons
- We couldn’t find any considerable drawbacks.
What is a Boat Launch System and What Does it Do
A boat launching system is most often a pair of wheels that you install on your boat transom so you can safely and efficiently transport it. Such a system is designed for inflatable dinghies, small fiberglass or aluminum boats, kayaks, rafts, etc. Besides a pair of wheels, a boat launching set can be a dolly with wheels as well. You should know that such units aren’t meant for long distances.
With boat transom launching wheels, you can transport your vessel quickly without hurting yourself or damaging its surfaces. Even inflatable dinghies are too heavy to carry on your own. Plus, you risk scratching your boat or even puncturing it on hard surfaces.
By installing wheels on the transom, you can maneuver with it and have a peace of mind that both of you will arrive safe and without scratches to the beach.
How to Choose the Best Boat Launching Wheels
As you see from the above-listed reviews, there are various models and types of boat launching wheels. Whether you have a boat, canoe, dinghy, kayak, or a raft, this type of wheels will help you carry and launch your craft in the water.
So here are the essential features and parameters to look for when choosing boat launching wheels:
- Weight rating. First and foremost, it’s crucial to know the exact weight of your boat. If it has a motor, you need to know their combined weight before purchasing your set. All wheels models have a maximum weight rating. The capacity range for these products varies a lot even though they are all made for a smaller aluminum or fiberglass boats, and inflatable boats. Regardless if you choose to buy a dolly set or the wheels only, both types have limitations.
- Wheel size. Most models have a standard size – between 11 and 15 inches in diameter. Their width is also standard – between 2 and 4 inches. So, based on where on the boat you can install them, and how much your boat weights, you can get the right size for you. That way, you won’t risk your boat being too cumbersome and won’t loll out and drag on the ground.
- Material. The frame, which is usually the brackets and the arms of the wheels are made from marine-grade durable steel. That’s a must because these parts can often come in contact with water. Saltwater especially leads to quick corrosion and rust. As you can see from our reviews, most of the products have frames made from anodized aluminum or stainless steel.
As for the wheels, they are made of either hard rubber. They can be either solid or inflatable, both of which have their ups and downs. Always check the type of wheels and inquire about quality. Inflatable ones shouldn’t get punctured easily.
- Mobility. This factor is essential and can also contribute to choosing the wheels’ material and size. You should check if specific wheels are suitable to use on all types of surfaces. For example, the most common surfaces are soft or hard sand, rocks, grass, asphalt roads. Not all wheels are suitable for all of these surfaces. In fact, most shouldn’t be used on regular roads. The other problematic surface is soft sand. So if you’ll need to carry your boat on one of the questionable terrains, look for wheels suitable for it.
- Your budget is also crucial. Well-known brands offer marine accessories that are a bit more expensive than lesser-known products. Quality also plays a role in the end price, but it’s also essential to get high-quality wheels. The price range for such boat launching wheels is quite wide, so you should be able to find a suitable product within your budget. For additional information about various marine products and accessories, check our designated page. You can find reviews and guides on numerous products your boat might need soon.
- Additional features. Here we could mention features such as quick release, more than one level for the wheels, bendability, and foldability. A nice feature we liked in some of the products we tried is that the safety pins were attached to the wheel’s frame, so you can’t lose them. Another example is some units that can be folded once the boat is in water and released when it’s time to take it onshore, and you’re still in the water.
Chrome vs. Aluminum vs. Galvanized: Which is Better for Boat Launching Systems?
It’s about personal preference mostly. However, there are some differences between the three. Chrome will probably rust faster if it often comes in contact with water, especially saltwater. Aluminum is an excellent choice because it’s lightweight, and you can maneuver with it, plus it doesn’t rust quickly.
On the other hand, if your boat launching system is used often and gets wet on a regular basis, you may need to consider galvanized metal construction or marine-grade stainless steel. Products made with each of these materials are available. You need to decide which one is best for you.
Installation of Boat Launching Wheels
A nice thing many boat manufacturers do in recent years is that they leave markings or brackets for transom wheels. If your boat is of an older generation or simply doesn’t have any brackets or markings where to install your wheels, you will have to do a bit more work.
Materials and tools you will need:
- A drill;
- A wrench;
- Glue;
- Measuring tape;
- Leveler;
- Bolts, nuts, and washers. Make sure they are marine grade stainless steel.
Sometimes the boat transom launching wheels come with some or all hardware necessary for installation.
So here are the necessary steps of installing your new transom wheels on your boat:
- Measure and position. Depending on the type of transom, find the most suitable place to install the wheels. Measure and mark the exact spot where you’re going to drill. You may need to use a leveler to make sure the wheels won’t be unbalanced. Also, make sure the brackets or wheels won’t interfere with the motor.
- Drill and glue. When you’re done measuring, apply glue to the place where the brackets will be. Then add them and drill at the marked spots to tighten the brackets while the glue is drying.
- Install the wheels after you’ve mounted the brackets, and the glue is dry. If the set came with safety pins, do not forget to use them to secure the wheels.
- Test the wheels when everything is in its place. You can try to move the boat a couple of feet to see if the wheels are sturdy and built well.
The installation of launching wheels, even without a pre-destined place, is a piece of cake. It’s definitely simpler than installing radar or GPS on your boat. However, even that can be simple if you have the know-how. You can take a look at our top boat radars reviews and guide. This way, when you need to set up such a unit on your boat, you’ll know how to do it. Plus, in our post, you can find which radars have a simpler installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Transom Wheels for Aluminum Boat Worth the Purchase?
Of course, they are. As long as you can find wheels strong enough to support your boat, it would make vessel carrying and launching much easier for you. Some people try to make their own dinghy wheels, but we recommend against it due to safety reasons.
Can I Use My Car to Pull the Boat When It’s оn the Wheels?
That would depend on the particular model of boat launching system that you buy. However, most wheels and dollies aren’t suitable for usage on regular roads or being towed by a car. For such a job, you need to hire a boat trailer.
Are Launching Wheels the Same as Boat Trailer?
No, these are not two different names for the same thing. A boat trailer is a bigger system and is designed to carry larger boats. Also, a boat trailer is intended for towing with a car. Launching wheels and dollies are not. Using a trailer requires strapping your boat down to it in most cases. In case you need to buy a sturdy and reliable harness for your craft, you should take a look at our reviews on boat transom tie-down straps. There you will find more information on top-selling products which you may need to consider purchasing.
Wrap up
We need to put an end at some point, and it is now. We hope that after reading our boat transom launching wheels reviews and guides, you are more aware of the product that you need. With some product descriptions and comparisons, we’re confident you will find the best boat transom launching wheels for your needs. Plus, now you know what models are on the market and what the specific things to look for are.
In the meantime, come back soon because we keep our products and guides up to date. We regularly update the existing information and publish new guides and reviews. We are dedicated to helping as many people as possible, and we work hard to achieve it.
If there’s anything you’d like to share with us, use the comments section below. We are more than happy to receive any feedback. You can also feel free to ask us any questions you have about boat transom launching wheels.
Thanks for reading!