I imagined a hitch on the rear of the bike connected directly to the front of the kayak, so eliminating the long tow bar. So began the design struggle for a suitable hitch. The part of the Equinox hitch that attaches to the bike, although not ideal was useable, so I concentrated on the kayak end. Purists, who even have disdain for rudders, frown upon any permanent external attachment to a kayak. So I knew my thoughts were already close to sacrilege and I would have to tread lightly with the design. It would have to be removable for paddling and yet not leave visible distractions or obstructions. It would have to be stowed on board and easily assembled when needed. I went through at least five designs, each an improvement on the previous one. The problem was always stability of the kayak while towing. Play in the joints of the hitch was magnified and caused swaying of the kayak and trailer. I progressed from a three-piece hitch to a short two-piece hitch, which keeps the inevitable play to a minimum. This is what I used in Eugene and it will be fine for now. I would prefer it be made of stainless steel rather than the aluminum tube, but there will be a time enough for that later.