Topic: Why are pedal kayaks so heavy? (Read 4484 times)

September 27, 2021, 09:49:41 AM #15

Quote from: pmmpete on September 26, 2021, 07:41:02 PM

Quote from: craig on September 25, 2021, 04:05:49 PM
I have seen more people go away from the heavy kayaks like an Outback than the other way around.
On my list of pedal kayaks, there are only two kayaks which weigh less than the Outback. So the Outback is actually pretty light for a pedal kayak.

Hobie Compass, all the Revos still made, and the Passport models are lighter.

As others have said the demand for big stable boats for small water is higher than that for ocean trollers and the current crop of medium boats (i.e. the new Outback) seem to do a good job of balancing stability, capacity and speed. Also, I would have to guess the reinforcement needed to support the drive and the forces exerted on it adds up. I mean finding a 12'+ paddle SOT under 60 lbs isnt really that common, at least without going higher end.

September 27, 2021, 11:16:59 AM #16

I'd also guess the main factor comes down to the extra rigidity and internal bracing required for the peddle drive and power poles. As others have mentioned, many of the models are bass boats designed for shallow, flat water, where stand up fishing and power pole usage is the intent.

I recently went over most of the top contenders myself and narrowed it down to a Hobie Compass (68 lbs w/o drive; $2.3-2.5k); Hobie Passport 12 (73 lbs w/o drive; $1.7k) and Old Town Sportsman Salty 120 (79 lbs w/o seat and drive; $1.9k).

Really liked the compass but couldn't justify the extra $600, seeing their shorter hull and drive warranty and the numerous scary Hobie hull crack threads. Ended up ordering a Salty, which shows up later this week. I car top, so weight is a major factor for me.

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Topic: Why are pedal kayaks so heavy? (Read 4484 times)

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