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Others have posted here about all the exciting new kayak models introduced at the recent I-Cast show. The fishing kayak community wanted more pedal-drive options, and the manufacturers heard them. New entries to the pedal-drive world include Wilderness, Old Town, Feel-Free, and Perception. Hobie introduced a reverse feature on their Mirage drive, and Native added a new Manta Ray hull to their Propel line. At the Outdoor Retailers show coming up in early August, it is likely that even more pedal drive options will be introduced.
Innovation and competition should help improve products over time, and often helps to move prices lower. Having said that, keep in mind that all the pedal drive units whether existing or new are complex mechanical devices with many parts and lots of things that move and wear. Regardless of which model you buy, be prepared to do some maintenance and adjustment in order to keep your pedal drive working well. The new models introduced at I-Cast have had in-house testing, but have not been subjected to different types of use (and abuse) by large numbers of regular kayakers. This includes pedaling, running into objects, installing and removing the drive units, etc. Inevitably new units sold during the first few months will have some quirks and flaws that will be subsequently revised by the manufacturers.
Things to look for include:
- ease of installation and removal
- weight
- noise
- ability to adjust to different positions for large and small users
- durability
- warranty from manufacturer for the entire pedal drive kayak and for the drive unit itself
- cost
- recommended maintenance
- ability to move in reverse as well as forward
Potential buyers have many exciting options to consider during the upcoming winter. Enjoy and caveat emptor (buyer beware). As a member of Native's Pro Staff team I am proud to represent the first company to have offered pedal-drive units that move in reverse as well as forward.
Innovation and competition should help improve products over time, and often helps to move prices lower. Having said that, keep in mind that all the pedal drive units whether existing or new are complex mechanical devices with many parts and lots of things that move and wear. Regardless of which model you buy, be prepared to do some maintenance and adjustment in order to keep your pedal drive working well. The new models introduced at I-Cast have had in-house testing, but have not been subjected to different types of use (and abuse) by large numbers of regular kayakers. This includes pedaling, running into objects, installing and removing the drive units, etc. Inevitably new units sold during the first few months will have some quirks and flaws that will be subsequently revised by the manufacturers.
Things to look for include:
- ease of installation and removal
- weight
- noise
- ability to adjust to different positions for large and small users
- durability
- warranty from manufacturer for the entire pedal drive kayak and for the drive unit itself
- cost
- recommended maintenance
- ability to move in reverse as well as forward
Potential buyers have many exciting options to consider during the upcoming winter. Enjoy and caveat emptor (buyer beware). As a member of Native's Pro Staff team I am proud to represent the first company to have offered pedal-drive units that move in reverse as well as forward.
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