I am hearing rumours of a totally new V10. Anyone got any more info?
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New model 2018 EPIC V10 - by: TC SURF SKI downunder
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If I capsize with stuck foot strap, do I remain submerged? - by: SpaceSputnik
Hi All
In anticipation of my first season, I am trying to mentally work through various aspects of paddling a surfski. One question that is on my mind is this:
Let's say I am on a flat water, lose balance, wipeout and my feet get stuck in the foot strap. Do I still float up to the side still attached to the boat? Wearing a PFD obviously.
I know that in a sea kayak you pretty much need to roll or wet exit because there is no way mechanically to have your upper body at the surface with your lower body attached at the waist. Not sure how it works with a surfski since even with feet attached the rest of the body seems a lot freer.
This is basically a hypothetical worst case scenario that I might encounter. I understand that I am supposed to slip out of the strap easily (wearing neoprene booties makes it a bit harder perhaps). I also understand that in dynamic conditions being attached to a boat which is tossed around is a bad situation, but this not quite my scenario. I am talking about calm water.
If it matters, the ski in question is Epic V7.
Thank you.
In anticipation of my first season, I am trying to mentally work through various aspects of paddling a surfski. One question that is on my mind is this:
Let's say I am on a flat water, lose balance, wipeout and my feet get stuck in the foot strap. Do I still float up to the side still attached to the boat? Wearing a PFD obviously.
I know that in a sea kayak you pretty much need to roll or wet exit because there is no way mechanically to have your upper body at the surface with your lower body attached at the waist. Not sure how it works with a surfski since even with feet attached the rest of the body seems a lot freer.
This is basically a hypothetical worst case scenario that I might encounter. I understand that I am supposed to slip out of the strap easily (wearing neoprene booties makes it a bit harder perhaps). I also understand that in dynamic conditions being attached to a boat which is tossed around is a bad situation, but this not quite my scenario. I am talking about calm water.
If it matters, the ski in question is Epic V7.
Thank you.
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What is your surfski story? - by: LakeMan
I'd like to hear your story about what and why you started paddling a surfski. You do not have to answer the questions below, they are just some ideas. I think giving your story will motivate others to get into the sport.
For example:
Did you paddle other boats first?
Is this for fitness, racing or just for the mental solitude?
Why paddle something so challenging?
Did you start with a beginner ski or jump into an elite?
How difficult was it to start the sport?
Did you find balance natural or a trial?
What is the best ski you've ever owned?
Do you paddle alone or in groups?
Does your spouse also paddle?
Multi-skis or do you keep one?
Daily, weekly or monthly on the water?
Do you winter ski and why?
This is an open post. Write whatever would be helpful to those who read it. Thank you
For example:
Did you paddle other boats first?
Is this for fitness, racing or just for the mental solitude?
Why paddle something so challenging?
Did you start with a beginner ski or jump into an elite?
How difficult was it to start the sport?
Did you find balance natural or a trial?
What is the best ski you've ever owned?
Do you paddle alone or in groups?
Does your spouse also paddle?
Multi-skis or do you keep one?
Daily, weekly or monthly on the water?
Do you winter ski and why?
This is an open post. Write whatever would be helpful to those who read it. Thank you
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Surfski Width x Length Chart - Sept. 2017 - by: owenfromwales
In 2013 there were about 50 ski designs on the list, today (Sept. 2017) it`s up to 202 and there must a few more out there that are absent. Feel free to let me know what`s wrong/missing from the list.
Happy paddling all!
Owen
(present set up: Stellar SEI 2G in Advantage lay-up, and Knysna Racing Delta L paddle.)
Surfski Width x Length Chart – January 2017
Manufacturer Name of Ski Width Length
O'Krea Oya 40 605
Huki S1-Z 40.64 635
Huki S1-A 40.64 5588
Scofits Ayahavela SSR 41 633
Scofits Ayahavela Bullet 41 633
Carbonology K1 Downriver ski 41.5 520
Stellar SES 41.6 620
Neumann Adventure Racing 42 660
Vajda Orca 42 650
Think Uno (pre 2016) 42 648
DD3 Envy 42 645
Sipre Sea Vortex 42 645
Nelo M/XL (2010) 42 640
DD3 Turbo G2 (2017) 42 638
Elio Mazu Pro I 42 627
Fenn Elite SL 42.5 644
Fenn Elite Spark 42.5 644
Fenn Elite Glide 42.5 644
Allwave CX 42.8 640
Ocean Built Kona K-64 42.8 640
Ocean Built Konastorm KS-64 42.8 640
Epic V14 (new) 42.9 640
Kayak Pro Oquendo 43 659
Zed Tech Dominator 43 658
Honcho Oceans Pro 43 647
Opium Infinity 43 645
Think Uno (2016) 43 645
Think Uno Max 43 645
Fenn Mako Elite 43 644
Think Legend 43 643
DD3 Turbo (2012) 43 640
Epic V12 (new) 43 640
Epic V14 (old) 43 640
Flow Kayaks Addict 43 640
Flow Kayaks Sharpski 43 640
Knysna Genius 40 43 640
Nordic Kayaks Nitro (to 2017) 43 640
Nordic Kayaks Nitro 64 (2018) 43 640
Revo R1 43 635
Carbonology Flash (2017) 43 635
Honcho Extreme 43 634
Vajda Next 43 630
Knysna Genius 20 43 628
Nordic Kayaks Fusion (2009) 43 625
Ozean OSS 2 43 6245
Elio Pro Elite 43 620
O'Krea Ozo 43 616
Carbonology Pulse 43 605
Epic V11 (2017) 43 579
Nordic Kayaks Rapido 1 Super 43 565
Huki S1-X 43.18 640
Epic V10 (old) 43.4 650
Epic V10L (old) 43.4 650
Red7 Surf70 43.5 660
DD3 XLR8 43.5 655
Ozean OSS I 43.5 6495
Stellar SEL 2G 43.5 645
Vajda Hawx 43.5 643.5
Epic V12 (old) 43.5 640
Nordic Kayaks Nitro+ 43.5 640
Seabird 6.4 43.5 640
Vajda Hawx 43 43.5 633
Kayak Centre Eos 660 43.6 660
Custom Kayaks Bullet ?? 640
Ygara Xama 44 660
Stellar SEL 1G 44 655
DD3 Albatross Gen 6 44 650
DD3 Albatross 44 648
Opium Molokai 44 644
Kayak Sipre Sea Vortex + 44 642
Fenn Mako 6 44 640
Nelo XXL 44 640
Felci Yachts Windseeker 44 620
Carbonology Pulse 44 610
Epic V10L (new) 44 615
Carbonology Pulse (2017) 44 600
Nordic Kayaks Nitro 60 (2017) 44 600
Carbonology Atom 44 595
Nordic Kayaks Rapido 2.0 44 585
Van Dusen Mohican 44.45 646.4
Stellar SE 44.5 655
Think Ion 44.5 642
Carbonology Flash (old) 44.5 635
Knysna Mac Rhythm 44.5 590
Chalupski Oscar/Hummel 44.5 580
Epic New V10 45 645
Opium DW 45 645
Sipre Ackua Veloce 45 645
Icon Genesis 45 640
Nelo Vintage 45 640
Elio 45 45 610
Fenn Swordfish 45 610
Nordic Kayaks Storm 45 610
Nordic Kayaks Storm + (to 2017) 45 610
Nordic Kayaks Storm 61 (2018) 45 610
Zed Tech Griffin ++ 45 590
Nelo 560L 45 560
Nelo 560M/L 45 560
Nelo 560M 45 560
Sipre Ackua 560 45 560
O'Krea Marmousse 45 450
Huki S1-XL 45.72 640
Allwave Volo 46 642
Custom Kayaks Focus 46 642
Custom Kayaks Synergy 46 642
Revo R2 46 635
Ozean OSS 3 46 6245
Knysna BLU 46 620
Carbonology Vault (2017b) 46 610
Stellar SEI 46 610
Scofits Ayahavela SSS (new)46 600
Vajda Hawx 46 46 590
DD3 Magnum 46 580
Nelo 550 46 550
Carbonology Vault (2017a) 46.5 612
Scofits Ayahavela SSS (old) 46.5 598
DD3 Australis 46.5 580
DD3 Wahoo Sport 46.5 579
Nordic Kayaks Storm 57 (2017) 46.5 570
Huki S1-R 46.99 607
Honcho Rookie 47 647
Custom Kayaks Icon 47
Think Evo (2016) 47 625
Zed Tech Dominator XL 47 620
Carbonology Vault (old) 47 595
Spirit Fury 47
Fenn XT (older) 47.5 600
Finn Molakai 47.5 590
Neumann Adventure 48 640
Revo R3 (2016) 48 635
Think Evo II 48 625
Carbonology Zest (old) 48 615
Kayak Pro Oquendo Sport 48 614
Epic V10 Sport (new) 48 610
Seabird 6.1 48 610
Bjorn Thomasson Spindrift 48 608
Revo R3 (2017) 48 605
Arrow 48 590
Stellar SR 48 584
Aquarius Coaster 48 580
Elio Fitness 48 580
Honcho Guevara 48 580
Knysna CLK 48 580
Nordic Kayaks Squall 48 580
Ozean OSS 4 48 5795
Sipre Marlin M 48 578
Point Horizon 48 573
Custom Kayaks Horizon 48 560
Custom Kayaks Mentor 48 560
Aquarius Coda 48 400
Knysna Guppie 48 400
Epic V10 Sport (old) 48.3 610
Kayak Centre Zeplin 48.5 660
Knysna Jester 48.5 457
Flow Kayaks Superstar 49 595
de Brito 59 49 590
Fenn Mako XT 49 588
Opium Moana 49 588
Lifesaving/Spec ski min.wid/max.len 49 580
Nordic Kayaks Squall + (to 2017) 49 580
Nordic Kayaks Squall 58 (2018) 49 580
Nordic Kayaks Squall 54 (2017) 49 540
Carbonology Splash 49 485
Carbonology Zest (old) 49.5 595
DD3 Maxx (2017) 50 600
Nordic Kayaks Breeze (`til 2015) 50 600
Carbonology Boost (2017a) 50 595
Honcho Guru 50 580
Spirit PRS 50 567
Bjorn Thomasson Spray 50 560
Allwave Genesi 50 520
Epic V8 Pro 50.5 579
Carbonology Boost (2017b) 51 595
Think Eze (pre 2016) 51 520
Think Eze (2016) 51 518
Spirit Racing Ski 51 496
Think Zen 52 560
Vajda Hawx 52 52 554
Opium Rider 52 553
Vajda Raptor 52 530
Nelo 520 52 520
Knysna Genius RS 52.5 580
Fenn Blue-Fin 53 590
Vajda Oscar 53 559
Axis Kayaks S4 53 507
Axis Kayaks S2 53 460
Stellar S18S 53.3 550
Nordic Kayaks Exrcize 54 550
Sipre Ackua Fun 54 550
Epic V8 (new) 54 548
Finn Endorfinn 54 522
Epic V7 54 520
Nordic Kayaks Breeze PE (2017) 54 505
Seabird 5.5 55 555
Elio 55 55 520
Nelo Viper 55 55 520
Nelo 510 55 510
Mirage 583 Freeride 55.5 580
Epic V8 (old) 55.88 548
de Brito 59w 56 590
Carbonology Cruz 56 550
Think Big Eze/Eze 56 538
Allwave Colibri 57 418
Stellar S16S 58.1 488
Epic V6 58.4 488
Cobra Eliminator 58.42 503
Epic V5 60 426
Spirit Crosstrainer CTR 61 400
Stellar S14S 62.8 436
Current Designs 140 66.04 427
List compiled by Owen on Okinawa, February, 2012.
Up-dated 26 April, 2013
Last up-dated January 2017.
Some info above may be incorrect or missing. Most measurements have been taken from manufacturers websites. Therefore, apologies in advance for any mistakes I`ve made and feel free to contact me with any information that should be adjusted or added:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Happy paddling all!
Owen
(present set up: Stellar SEI 2G in Advantage lay-up, and Knysna Racing Delta L paddle.)
Surfski Width x Length Chart – January 2017
Manufacturer Name of Ski Width Length
O'Krea Oya 40 605
Huki S1-Z 40.64 635
Huki S1-A 40.64 5588
Scofits Ayahavela SSR 41 633
Scofits Ayahavela Bullet 41 633
Carbonology K1 Downriver ski 41.5 520
Stellar SES 41.6 620
Neumann Adventure Racing 42 660
Vajda Orca 42 650
Think Uno (pre 2016) 42 648
DD3 Envy 42 645
Sipre Sea Vortex 42 645
Nelo M/XL (2010) 42 640
DD3 Turbo G2 (2017) 42 638
Elio Mazu Pro I 42 627
Fenn Elite SL 42.5 644
Fenn Elite Spark 42.5 644
Fenn Elite Glide 42.5 644
Allwave CX 42.8 640
Ocean Built Kona K-64 42.8 640
Ocean Built Konastorm KS-64 42.8 640
Epic V14 (new) 42.9 640
Kayak Pro Oquendo 43 659
Zed Tech Dominator 43 658
Honcho Oceans Pro 43 647
Opium Infinity 43 645
Think Uno (2016) 43 645
Think Uno Max 43 645
Fenn Mako Elite 43 644
Think Legend 43 643
DD3 Turbo (2012) 43 640
Epic V12 (new) 43 640
Epic V14 (old) 43 640
Flow Kayaks Addict 43 640
Flow Kayaks Sharpski 43 640
Knysna Genius 40 43 640
Nordic Kayaks Nitro (to 2017) 43 640
Nordic Kayaks Nitro 64 (2018) 43 640
Revo R1 43 635
Carbonology Flash (2017) 43 635
Honcho Extreme 43 634
Vajda Next 43 630
Knysna Genius 20 43 628
Nordic Kayaks Fusion (2009) 43 625
Ozean OSS 2 43 6245
Elio Pro Elite 43 620
O'Krea Ozo 43 616
Carbonology Pulse 43 605
Epic V11 (2017) 43 579
Nordic Kayaks Rapido 1 Super 43 565
Huki S1-X 43.18 640
Epic V10 (old) 43.4 650
Epic V10L (old) 43.4 650
Red7 Surf70 43.5 660
DD3 XLR8 43.5 655
Ozean OSS I 43.5 6495
Stellar SEL 2G 43.5 645
Vajda Hawx 43.5 643.5
Epic V12 (old) 43.5 640
Nordic Kayaks Nitro+ 43.5 640
Seabird 6.4 43.5 640
Vajda Hawx 43 43.5 633
Kayak Centre Eos 660 43.6 660
Custom Kayaks Bullet ?? 640
Ygara Xama 44 660
Stellar SEL 1G 44 655
DD3 Albatross Gen 6 44 650
DD3 Albatross 44 648
Opium Molokai 44 644
Kayak Sipre Sea Vortex + 44 642
Fenn Mako 6 44 640
Nelo XXL 44 640
Felci Yachts Windseeker 44 620
Carbonology Pulse 44 610
Epic V10L (new) 44 615
Carbonology Pulse (2017) 44 600
Nordic Kayaks Nitro 60 (2017) 44 600
Carbonology Atom 44 595
Nordic Kayaks Rapido 2.0 44 585
Van Dusen Mohican 44.45 646.4
Stellar SE 44.5 655
Think Ion 44.5 642
Carbonology Flash (old) 44.5 635
Knysna Mac Rhythm 44.5 590
Chalupski Oscar/Hummel 44.5 580
Epic New V10 45 645
Opium DW 45 645
Sipre Ackua Veloce 45 645
Icon Genesis 45 640
Nelo Vintage 45 640
Elio 45 45 610
Fenn Swordfish 45 610
Nordic Kayaks Storm 45 610
Nordic Kayaks Storm + (to 2017) 45 610
Nordic Kayaks Storm 61 (2018) 45 610
Zed Tech Griffin ++ 45 590
Nelo 560L 45 560
Nelo 560M/L 45 560
Nelo 560M 45 560
Sipre Ackua 560 45 560
O'Krea Marmousse 45 450
Huki S1-XL 45.72 640
Allwave Volo 46 642
Custom Kayaks Focus 46 642
Custom Kayaks Synergy 46 642
Revo R2 46 635
Ozean OSS 3 46 6245
Knysna BLU 46 620
Carbonology Vault (2017b) 46 610
Stellar SEI 46 610
Scofits Ayahavela SSS (new)46 600
Vajda Hawx 46 46 590
DD3 Magnum 46 580
Nelo 550 46 550
Carbonology Vault (2017a) 46.5 612
Scofits Ayahavela SSS (old) 46.5 598
DD3 Australis 46.5 580
DD3 Wahoo Sport 46.5 579
Nordic Kayaks Storm 57 (2017) 46.5 570
Huki S1-R 46.99 607
Honcho Rookie 47 647
Custom Kayaks Icon 47
Think Evo (2016) 47 625
Zed Tech Dominator XL 47 620
Carbonology Vault (old) 47 595
Spirit Fury 47
Fenn XT (older) 47.5 600
Finn Molakai 47.5 590
Neumann Adventure 48 640
Revo R3 (2016) 48 635
Think Evo II 48 625
Carbonology Zest (old) 48 615
Kayak Pro Oquendo Sport 48 614
Epic V10 Sport (new) 48 610
Seabird 6.1 48 610
Bjorn Thomasson Spindrift 48 608
Revo R3 (2017) 48 605
Arrow 48 590
Stellar SR 48 584
Aquarius Coaster 48 580
Elio Fitness 48 580
Honcho Guevara 48 580
Knysna CLK 48 580
Nordic Kayaks Squall 48 580
Ozean OSS 4 48 5795
Sipre Marlin M 48 578
Point Horizon 48 573
Custom Kayaks Horizon 48 560
Custom Kayaks Mentor 48 560
Aquarius Coda 48 400
Knysna Guppie 48 400
Epic V10 Sport (old) 48.3 610
Kayak Centre Zeplin 48.5 660
Knysna Jester 48.5 457
Flow Kayaks Superstar 49 595
de Brito 59 49 590
Fenn Mako XT 49 588
Opium Moana 49 588
Lifesaving/Spec ski min.wid/max.len 49 580
Nordic Kayaks Squall + (to 2017) 49 580
Nordic Kayaks Squall 58 (2018) 49 580
Nordic Kayaks Squall 54 (2017) 49 540
Carbonology Splash 49 485
Carbonology Zest (old) 49.5 595
DD3 Maxx (2017) 50 600
Nordic Kayaks Breeze (`til 2015) 50 600
Carbonology Boost (2017a) 50 595
Honcho Guru 50 580
Spirit PRS 50 567
Bjorn Thomasson Spray 50 560
Allwave Genesi 50 520
Epic V8 Pro 50.5 579
Carbonology Boost (2017b) 51 595
Think Eze (pre 2016) 51 520
Think Eze (2016) 51 518
Spirit Racing Ski 51 496
Think Zen 52 560
Vajda Hawx 52 52 554
Opium Rider 52 553
Vajda Raptor 52 530
Nelo 520 52 520
Knysna Genius RS 52.5 580
Fenn Blue-Fin 53 590
Vajda Oscar 53 559
Axis Kayaks S4 53 507
Axis Kayaks S2 53 460
Stellar S18S 53.3 550
Nordic Kayaks Exrcize 54 550
Sipre Ackua Fun 54 550
Epic V8 (new) 54 548
Finn Endorfinn 54 522
Epic V7 54 520
Nordic Kayaks Breeze PE (2017) 54 505
Seabird 5.5 55 555
Elio 55 55 520
Nelo Viper 55 55 520
Nelo 510 55 510
Mirage 583 Freeride 55.5 580
Epic V8 (old) 55.88 548
de Brito 59w 56 590
Carbonology Cruz 56 550
Think Big Eze/Eze 56 538
Allwave Colibri 57 418
Stellar S16S 58.1 488
Epic V6 58.4 488
Cobra Eliminator 58.42 503
Epic V5 60 426
Spirit Crosstrainer CTR 61 400
Stellar S14S 62.8 436
Current Designs 140 66.04 427
List compiled by Owen on Okinawa, February, 2012.
Up-dated 26 April, 2013
Last up-dated January 2017.
Some info above may be incorrect or missing. Most measurements have been taken from manufacturers websites. Therefore, apologies in advance for any mistakes I`ve made and feel free to contact me with any information that should be adjusted or added:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Miller's run of the season Feb 2018 - by: SteveW
Some photos I took at the start and end of the run.
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Low volume skis for flat water - by: kwolfe
So I looked around and can't really find a definitive answer. I live in the middle of Pennsylvania, US. Around here we have lakes and rivers (none really that great), which means I paddle flat water 99.9% of the time.
When it comes to low volume boats (V10L for example), they are commonly known as skis for lighter paddlers. I assume this is because a heavier paddler (I'm 196lbs) would cause it to pearl and dive on a larger downwind day.
However, what about flat water paddling? Can a heavier guy like myself get away with having a lower volume ski or would a heavier paddlers weight just kill the intended/optimum waterline? I currently paddle a Nelo 550 and it doesn't seem to have near the volume of my previous V8, SEL or V14. Just curious.
When it comes to low volume boats (V10L for example), they are commonly known as skis for lighter paddlers. I assume this is because a heavier paddler (I'm 196lbs) would cause it to pearl and dive on a larger downwind day.
However, what about flat water paddling? Can a heavier guy like myself get away with having a lower volume ski or would a heavier paddlers weight just kill the intended/optimum waterline? I currently paddle a Nelo 550 and it doesn't seem to have near the volume of my previous V8, SEL or V14. Just curious.
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Ventura, CA - by: MCImes
Hey Guys,
I remember someone on the boards here lives in or near Ventura, CA - Although not set in stone yet, my wife and I are likely moving there in the semi-near future for a new job.
I'm wondering where the good paddling spots are, what typical conditions are like, and if I could talk to you about the area (where to live, or avoid, things to do, ect).
Chime in if you're in the area or have recently left it.
Thanks!
I remember someone on the boards here lives in or near Ventura, CA - Although not set in stone yet, my wife and I are likely moving there in the semi-near future for a new job.
I'm wondering where the good paddling spots are, what typical conditions are like, and if I could talk to you about the area (where to live, or avoid, things to do, ect).
Chime in if you're in the area or have recently left it.
Thanks!
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Seat Pad Material - by: HankL
I have been trying to buy a Mocke adjustable seat pad but can't find one here in the states. So, I decided to make one, but now I can't find the material. Anyone here in the states have an idea where I can find it?
Thanks
Hank
Thanks
Hank
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Is a J-Craddle required for transporting Surf Ski? - by: Batman767
Do you think j-craddles are needed when transporting your surf ski?
Can you get away with just a normal roof rack system with the two roof cross bars? I'm coming from a sea kayaking background and have never used a craddle system and have had no problem. Obviously surf skis are longer and lighter.
Cheers
Can you get away with just a normal roof rack system with the two roof cross bars? I'm coming from a sea kayaking background and have never used a craddle system and have had no problem. Obviously surf skis are longer and lighter.
Cheers
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↧
Video thread - by: Hiro
Wanted to start a thread where we would post our paddling videos. No stroke analisys or technical stuff. Just paddling for the fun of it.
Here's mine.
real fun starts at 3:45
Here's mine.
real fun starts at 3:45
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Minimizing risk of tendinitis - by: MCImes
Hi guys,
Over the winter, I have been diagnosed with mild tendinitis in both my hands and one elbow.
I have always had bum joints. Probably doesn't help I did physical labor for several years when I was young (not for almost a decade now though)
Paddling has always been a balance for me. My muscles can exert more force than my tendons can handle, and I'm only in my early 30s.
What can you wise ones tell me about mitigating tendinitis through stroke mechanics, stretches, focused exercises , ect.
I already use a small paddle (small mid wing or small think, both around 720cm2) but still exacerbate the condition with paddling. I think I have ok form, but have never been evaluated by a paddling coach. (I know I should schedule a couple sessions with a coach! Any recommendations in New England area, US?)
I'm towards the middle of a 2-3 month break right now, but want to have a strategy in place when the ice breaks up in a month or 2.
Any insight is appreciated.
Thanks!
Over the winter, I have been diagnosed with mild tendinitis in both my hands and one elbow.
I have always had bum joints. Probably doesn't help I did physical labor for several years when I was young (not for almost a decade now though)
Paddling has always been a balance for me. My muscles can exert more force than my tendons can handle, and I'm only in my early 30s.
What can you wise ones tell me about mitigating tendinitis through stroke mechanics, stretches, focused exercises , ect.
I already use a small paddle (small mid wing or small think, both around 720cm2) but still exacerbate the condition with paddling. I think I have ok form, but have never been evaluated by a paddling coach. (I know I should schedule a couple sessions with a coach! Any recommendations in New England area, US?)
I'm towards the middle of a 2-3 month break right now, but want to have a strategy in place when the ice breaks up in a month or 2.
Any insight is appreciated.
Thanks!
↧
Is the New 2016 Stellar SEL really that good? - by: 1720713488147760@facebook
According to other reviewers the new SEL has been lauded as having the stability of an intermediate boat and the speed of an elite level boat.
Well after testing a 2016 SEL-Excel back to back with 5 other boats, Carbon Fenn Elite, Swordfish S Hybrid, Swordfish Vacuum Glass, Performance V10 (new version) and a Carbonology Flash in a variety of conditions including a 23km 20knot downwind I can confirm some of the hype is true... but there are also some glaring drawbacks!
Firstly, there is no such thing as a perfect ski... if there was, we would all have one and no other skis would exist. In truth, there is however a perfect ski for each person in typical conditions where they normally paddle and that can be a very different craft for each paddler!
The SEL for me has been a perfect example that you have to demo a ski in the conditions you normally paddle in.
The first time I paddled the new SEL was in still, flat conditions on the river. The stability definitely puts it up against the Swordfish and V10. In a word, it is fantastic! A mid packers dream. In fact in every outing I had, I didn't have a single brace stroke.
It's cruise speed is high, maintaining 12 kph for the first km in the boat followed by sprints up to 15.5 with 30 seconds rest each time. This is pretty much identical to what I train at in my Fenn Elite and are speeds that leave me shattered if attempted in my glass Swordie. Catching boat wash was a piece of cake and it picked up the wave effortlessly but did want to swing the tail around if you tried to ride the face of the wave.
My next paddle was still in sheltered waters, but the wind was blowing 20 knots and there was spray coming off the whitecaps when the wind was gusting. The bow slap from the SEL was a bit of a concern but catching the small 1-2 foot waves downwind was an absolute joy. It picked up the runs easily, linked runs just as easily and I had a great time... could this be the boat for me?
The next two paddles were a week later and back at home in my normal conditions. I couldn't wait! Saturday was blowing 30 knots in the bay so paddling upwind was always going to be a slog. The fetch is only about 10km where we were paddling so the waves weren't big, only around 2 feet, but they were steep and moving pretty quick. Going upwind in the SEL I have never been more disappointed in any ski. The Bow and tail slap was relentless, the fore and aft pitching almost making me sea sick! It was on this day that we had 3 Paddlers swapping between the 6 boats listed above. When it was my turn on the SEL, I was gob smacked to be overtaken by Tony and Eddie on the swordfish pair while they chatted and laughed. I was working my butt off. The SEL was absolutely flogged by every other boat upwind. It didn't matter who was on which boat. Everything thrashed the SEL upwind! All other boats were pretty similar in speed and it usually came down to the stronger paddler who was quickest.
Downwind was a bit of a mixed bag with the Elite and Flash being the fastest, but the Swordfishes were easily the most fun in these conditions, carving up waves with ease. Their only difficulty was trying to climb over the wave in front. The newer Swordfish S is better at this than the older version. The SEL with its high flat water speed had no trouble climbing over waves and linking was relatively easy but it was still at the back of the pack on GPS data along with the MUCH heavier V10. After 90 minutes of swapping boats and logging runs, the new SEL was by far the least favourite boat for all 3 of us. The upwind effort really was that bad! If any prospective owner doesn't have a shuffle bunny for downwind runs you can stop reading here! this is NOT the boat for you.
Day 4 was a 23km downwind in 20 knot conditions from Forrest Beach to Dalyellup. This is my favourite run and speeds are usually as good (or better) than the famous Mandurah Cut Run. The shape of the coast just seems to produce fast clean waves. Today was a little messier than normal as the wind kept gusting from the South rather than the usual SW, but that's still fairly typical. I do this run a lot and normally gap Tony and Eddie pretty easily. Today I was on the new SEL, Tony was on his Swordfish S and Eddie was having his first proper downwind on my older Swordie. With waves averaging 4 foot and some good white cap spray hitting us in the back it should have been a great paddle. Once again I was underwhelmed by the SEL. How can a boat that feels this stable, where I can always get the power down and with easy speed to catch pretty much any wave be so slow?
The Answer: Where both Swordfishes were catching every single wave and having 60-90 second runs without the paddle in the water, I was paddling as if it was a flat day. The new V10 suffers from this as well to a certain extent, but that is a MUCH heavier boat (I'd like to try the ULTRA or GT versions in these conditions). Yes I caught lots of waves, and plenty that the Swordfishes had no chance of running down, but it is still really demoralising to be on a decent wave, paddling to maintain momentum for the next link and a beat up old swordfish catches you, overtakes you without paddling, and the mad bugger on board grinning from ear to ear shouting out "How awesome is this?" In these conditions I am normally on my Elite and I stop every 5km for the others to catch up, often paddling back upwind for a few minutes because I've lost sight of them. Today, on the SEL, I was the one working my butt off and twice Tony had to wait for me. He finished the run fresh and relaxed. I was knackered.
In smaller conditions I can totally believe all the favourable reviews and comments the new 2016 SEL is getting. The finish on this boat is absolutely first class. The footplate is fantastic, the seat is much more comfortable than previous Stellars and it is super stable. Any intermediate paddler will feel comfortable, and it is really quick in light conditions. On the flat it is easily a match for my old 2010 Fenn Elite, but that's almost expected as it has a lot less rocker.
In a proper downwind however the SEL is probably the slowest of the intermediate boats I've paddled. And for the record I have paddled a lot of different boats. I currently have 14 in the shed (hopefully the wife doesn't read this) including Clint Robinsons carbon V10 that still holds the record for the Rottnest Doctor race and have owned more than 40 in the last 10 years. A younger fitter bloke might like the SEL better, but I'll stick to the Swordfish. for racing. The lack of outright speed isn't a huge disadvantage when you're getting so many rests.
Not everyone paddles much upwind, but I do. Local conditions and my nearest paddling buddies living 25km away unfortunately make it pretty common for me to paddle 7-10km into a 25 knot wind for the solo down wind run back to the start. For this reason alone I wouldn't consider adding the SEL to my current fleet. Some boats are a pleasure upwind. The Oceanbuilt, Zeplin and the new V10 are brilliant at it, even the Custom Kayaks Synergy was a joy upwind. Most boats however are simply tolerable upwind for the joy that comes on the way back, The SEL for all 3 of us that day of up and backs was horrible. There was always going to be a trade off for that brilliant stability along with flat water speed. Once again proving - There is no perfect ski for everyone.
Well after testing a 2016 SEL-Excel back to back with 5 other boats, Carbon Fenn Elite, Swordfish S Hybrid, Swordfish Vacuum Glass, Performance V10 (new version) and a Carbonology Flash in a variety of conditions including a 23km 20knot downwind I can confirm some of the hype is true... but there are also some glaring drawbacks!
Firstly, there is no such thing as a perfect ski... if there was, we would all have one and no other skis would exist. In truth, there is however a perfect ski for each person in typical conditions where they normally paddle and that can be a very different craft for each paddler!
The SEL for me has been a perfect example that you have to demo a ski in the conditions you normally paddle in.
The first time I paddled the new SEL was in still, flat conditions on the river. The stability definitely puts it up against the Swordfish and V10. In a word, it is fantastic! A mid packers dream. In fact in every outing I had, I didn't have a single brace stroke.
It's cruise speed is high, maintaining 12 kph for the first km in the boat followed by sprints up to 15.5 with 30 seconds rest each time. This is pretty much identical to what I train at in my Fenn Elite and are speeds that leave me shattered if attempted in my glass Swordie. Catching boat wash was a piece of cake and it picked up the wave effortlessly but did want to swing the tail around if you tried to ride the face of the wave.
My next paddle was still in sheltered waters, but the wind was blowing 20 knots and there was spray coming off the whitecaps when the wind was gusting. The bow slap from the SEL was a bit of a concern but catching the small 1-2 foot waves downwind was an absolute joy. It picked up the runs easily, linked runs just as easily and I had a great time... could this be the boat for me?
The next two paddles were a week later and back at home in my normal conditions. I couldn't wait! Saturday was blowing 30 knots in the bay so paddling upwind was always going to be a slog. The fetch is only about 10km where we were paddling so the waves weren't big, only around 2 feet, but they were steep and moving pretty quick. Going upwind in the SEL I have never been more disappointed in any ski. The Bow and tail slap was relentless, the fore and aft pitching almost making me sea sick! It was on this day that we had 3 Paddlers swapping between the 6 boats listed above. When it was my turn on the SEL, I was gob smacked to be overtaken by Tony and Eddie on the swordfish pair while they chatted and laughed. I was working my butt off. The SEL was absolutely flogged by every other boat upwind. It didn't matter who was on which boat. Everything thrashed the SEL upwind! All other boats were pretty similar in speed and it usually came down to the stronger paddler who was quickest.
Downwind was a bit of a mixed bag with the Elite and Flash being the fastest, but the Swordfishes were easily the most fun in these conditions, carving up waves with ease. Their only difficulty was trying to climb over the wave in front. The newer Swordfish S is better at this than the older version. The SEL with its high flat water speed had no trouble climbing over waves and linking was relatively easy but it was still at the back of the pack on GPS data along with the MUCH heavier V10. After 90 minutes of swapping boats and logging runs, the new SEL was by far the least favourite boat for all 3 of us. The upwind effort really was that bad! If any prospective owner doesn't have a shuffle bunny for downwind runs you can stop reading here! this is NOT the boat for you.
Day 4 was a 23km downwind in 20 knot conditions from Forrest Beach to Dalyellup. This is my favourite run and speeds are usually as good (or better) than the famous Mandurah Cut Run. The shape of the coast just seems to produce fast clean waves. Today was a little messier than normal as the wind kept gusting from the South rather than the usual SW, but that's still fairly typical. I do this run a lot and normally gap Tony and Eddie pretty easily. Today I was on the new SEL, Tony was on his Swordfish S and Eddie was having his first proper downwind on my older Swordie. With waves averaging 4 foot and some good white cap spray hitting us in the back it should have been a great paddle. Once again I was underwhelmed by the SEL. How can a boat that feels this stable, where I can always get the power down and with easy speed to catch pretty much any wave be so slow?
The Answer: Where both Swordfishes were catching every single wave and having 60-90 second runs without the paddle in the water, I was paddling as if it was a flat day. The new V10 suffers from this as well to a certain extent, but that is a MUCH heavier boat (I'd like to try the ULTRA or GT versions in these conditions). Yes I caught lots of waves, and plenty that the Swordfishes had no chance of running down, but it is still really demoralising to be on a decent wave, paddling to maintain momentum for the next link and a beat up old swordfish catches you, overtakes you without paddling, and the mad bugger on board grinning from ear to ear shouting out "How awesome is this?" In these conditions I am normally on my Elite and I stop every 5km for the others to catch up, often paddling back upwind for a few minutes because I've lost sight of them. Today, on the SEL, I was the one working my butt off and twice Tony had to wait for me. He finished the run fresh and relaxed. I was knackered.
In smaller conditions I can totally believe all the favourable reviews and comments the new 2016 SEL is getting. The finish on this boat is absolutely first class. The footplate is fantastic, the seat is much more comfortable than previous Stellars and it is super stable. Any intermediate paddler will feel comfortable, and it is really quick in light conditions. On the flat it is easily a match for my old 2010 Fenn Elite, but that's almost expected as it has a lot less rocker.
In a proper downwind however the SEL is probably the slowest of the intermediate boats I've paddled. And for the record I have paddled a lot of different boats. I currently have 14 in the shed (hopefully the wife doesn't read this) including Clint Robinsons carbon V10 that still holds the record for the Rottnest Doctor race and have owned more than 40 in the last 10 years. A younger fitter bloke might like the SEL better, but I'll stick to the Swordfish. for racing. The lack of outright speed isn't a huge disadvantage when you're getting so many rests.
Not everyone paddles much upwind, but I do. Local conditions and my nearest paddling buddies living 25km away unfortunately make it pretty common for me to paddle 7-10km into a 25 knot wind for the solo down wind run back to the start. For this reason alone I wouldn't consider adding the SEL to my current fleet. Some boats are a pleasure upwind. The Oceanbuilt, Zeplin and the new V10 are brilliant at it, even the Custom Kayaks Synergy was a joy upwind. Most boats however are simply tolerable upwind for the joy that comes on the way back, The SEL for all 3 of us that day of up and backs was horrible. There was always going to be a trade off for that brilliant stability along with flat water speed. Once again proving - There is no perfect ski for everyone.
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Mounting Motionize sensor on Epic kayaks? - by: DrA5
I picked up a Motionize data acquisition unit. The sensor that is mounted on the surfski I am imagining would be best mounted on center. On Epic kayaks, there is a pointed "crown" midline in front of the cockpit. Any tips on how to mount the sensor on center? Shims? If so, what kind? Pics of how you did it? Plus, the OCD in me would want it mounted in the center of the boat, not to one side of the crown.
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Nelo coach app - by: xavdhr
Hi,
Does someone use this app?
Any thoughts/inputs?
Cheers,
X
Does someone use this app?
Any thoughts/inputs?
Cheers,
X
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Tell me about the paddling around Miami - by: davgdavg
How is the paddling scene around Miami? Are there any places for boat storage like clubs, etc.?
Any information in general or opinions (if you live around there) would be awesome too.
Thanks,
David
Any information in general or opinions (if you live around there) would be awesome too.
Thanks,
David
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Spec ski rudder - by: grasshopper
Hi All, looking for rudder suggestions to improve the steering on my Gibbons GRX spec ski.
Currently have rudder similar to the one in the attachment.
Also wondering why all spec skis seem to have the rudder so close to the tail, wouldn't steering be better if it was further forward?
Currently have rudder similar to the one in the attachment.
Also wondering why all spec skis seem to have the rudder so close to the tail, wouldn't steering be better if it was further forward?
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Forum member @NachoSoler94 joins Team Think. - by: Jef58
I noticed this from Think's Facebook page. Congratulations to him and good luck with the new team. I always liked watching his videos here. Seems like a great guy..!!
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VHF radio MMSI registration - by: WingSuit
Bought an MMSI VHF a year ago, had to join BOAT US to get it registered. Now BOAT US is telling me I have to maintain an annual membership to keep my MMSI registration. Does anyone know the story on this, do I have to pay as if I own a powerboat to simply have an MMSI registration? Or could I have registered it without BOAT US?
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New to surfski- Sore butt, Lots of questions - by: d0uglass
Hi All,
I've been racing standup paddleboards for a few years. Recently a lot of my racer buddies have been buying sit-down paddlecraft like OC1s and Surfskis. I got on the bandwagon this weekend when I bought a used Epic v12 (the older fiberglass model with a black-tipped nose) for real cheap. Another friend gave me a paddle. I'm not sure the specs on the paddle, but it's a legit carbon surfski paddle with the scooped out blades that look like rabbit ears... just a bit dinged up.
Anyway, I've paddled it twice and I can tell I have a lot to learn. The balance is really tough, of course, but I'm actually doing OK. First session I had to flop in and out of it for about 15 minutes before it clicked and I could paddle it for minutes at a time without flipping. Second session I didn't pick up where I left off. Still had to flop in and out for 5 or 10 minutes before the balance clicked, but then I was able to paddle about 6 kph with just a few flips.
Here are some of the problems I'm having that I want advice on:
#1- My butt is killing me. Just south of the crack and north of the hole, where a two-knobbed bone of some kind is near the surface of my skin, I've got two bloody red welts. I'm not sure what the best strategy is to avoid that happening, or if a callous will develop eventually, or what.
#2- I have a sense that my stroke is shit, and I'm not sure where to go for the most extreme basic, slow-motion, simplified instructions for paddling. I have a pretty good SUP stroke, in which the shaft is totally vertical and the stroke is parallel to the boat, but it seems totally different with the two-bladed paddle where the shaft is less vertical and the stroke that sweeps away from the boat instead of staying parallel with it. Don't have any idea about what the entry or exit should look like, which joints should be bent at what times, or anything.
#3- I'm putting a lot of strain on my right wrist, especially. I'm using 0 degree offset because I read somewhere that offset isn't really that important. Maybe if I'm doing the stroke better that won't happen.
#4- Do you paddle with the cockpit drainer open all the time, or to you just flip it open briefly to drain the cockpit and then close it. Does it slow you down a lot to have it open? I noticed it was kind of a good speedometer, because I could hear it start to suck a lot when I got over 9 kph.
I'm sure I'll have more questions later, but that's it for now.
Thanks,
James
I've been racing standup paddleboards for a few years. Recently a lot of my racer buddies have been buying sit-down paddlecraft like OC1s and Surfskis. I got on the bandwagon this weekend when I bought a used Epic v12 (the older fiberglass model with a black-tipped nose) for real cheap. Another friend gave me a paddle. I'm not sure the specs on the paddle, but it's a legit carbon surfski paddle with the scooped out blades that look like rabbit ears... just a bit dinged up.
Anyway, I've paddled it twice and I can tell I have a lot to learn. The balance is really tough, of course, but I'm actually doing OK. First session I had to flop in and out of it for about 15 minutes before it clicked and I could paddle it for minutes at a time without flipping. Second session I didn't pick up where I left off. Still had to flop in and out for 5 or 10 minutes before the balance clicked, but then I was able to paddle about 6 kph with just a few flips.
Here are some of the problems I'm having that I want advice on:
#1- My butt is killing me. Just south of the crack and north of the hole, where a two-knobbed bone of some kind is near the surface of my skin, I've got two bloody red welts. I'm not sure what the best strategy is to avoid that happening, or if a callous will develop eventually, or what.
#2- I have a sense that my stroke is shit, and I'm not sure where to go for the most extreme basic, slow-motion, simplified instructions for paddling. I have a pretty good SUP stroke, in which the shaft is totally vertical and the stroke is parallel to the boat, but it seems totally different with the two-bladed paddle where the shaft is less vertical and the stroke that sweeps away from the boat instead of staying parallel with it. Don't have any idea about what the entry or exit should look like, which joints should be bent at what times, or anything.
#3- I'm putting a lot of strain on my right wrist, especially. I'm using 0 degree offset because I read somewhere that offset isn't really that important. Maybe if I'm doing the stroke better that won't happen.
#4- Do you paddle with the cockpit drainer open all the time, or to you just flip it open briefly to drain the cockpit and then close it. Does it slow you down a lot to have it open? I noticed it was kind of a good speedometer, because I could hear it start to suck a lot when I got over 9 kph.
I'm sure I'll have more questions later, but that's it for now.
Thanks,
James
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Mike Johnson older design kayak/surfski - by: tharrison67
I recently aquired a Mike Johnson ski and from the little research I have done he was a pioneer along with Merv in surf skis. It is a sit in style and only got it as it was a package deal to the ski i wanted. Don't want to trash or continue to store it and from the design it is OLD. I purchased both skis from a older lady who knew nothing about them whos son was a 1984 Olympic alternate. I would just like to find some more info on the ski and if anyone would be interested in it. I found a thread in here that is over 4 yrs old about Merv and a ski of his that was found and if I recall I think both Mike and merv surfed together in the past. Thanks for any info.
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