Awesome Toy for BPI

[admin]

I have been looking at these things for the past 2 years. I have finally saved up my allowance, and I will be buying a Hobie Mirage in 2 weeks. It is a foot pedal kayak - http://www.hobiecat.com/kayaking/index.html

It is perfect for BPI - The steering is rudder-controlled with a lever on the right side. They also make a fishing model with the lever on the left side.

My wife and I are going to rent a tandem this weekend. She is little bit worried that when I get this thing that I will never be home. I am pretty excited as there are not a lot of things out there suited for BPI. I modified my bicycle - put all the gears and breaking on the right side, but it was bit scary at high speeds or in traffic - the steering is not too steady with one arm.

I live in Southern California, so there is plenty of water for my excursions. I am just curious if anyone else has one of these and/or what other people do for exercise. I am not one to sit at home and ride a stationary bike.

[jennyb]

I want one.......how much is it Rich?

[admin]

The prices are a little steep.
the single goes for $1245.00
the tandem goes for $1845.00 - However, you can find demos and used rentals that have been re-furbished. I found a used tandem for $1100.00. I am trying it out this weekend. Used singles in very good condition go for about $900+. Typically, the rentals go on sale in October and get gobbled up pretty quickly. My research has consisted of google searches and eBay searches. I was also trying to think of a way to approach Hobie directly, and see if they would cut some slack and sell it at cost. My brother-n-law used to work at Sport Chalet, and could get employee discounts. Unfortunatelty, he was let go before I could get my order in. I hope that this helps.

[PamelaW]

Rich, Thank you for this site. Jeff's younger brother kayaks and snowboards and has wanted Jeff to try both. This would be perfect. To make matters even better they will be demonstrated at a boat show within 50 miles of me on Feb. 23-26. Thanks again Pam

[Paul]

Thanks Rich a very nice site. I think i will look into buying one...............Paul

[admin]

I finally bought my kayak last weekend so I thought that I would follow up with a review. First things first, my wife and I rented a Hobie Mirage Tandem. It is much heavier than the single, not as quick or agile. My wife was not a big fan of it. She is not a water person. It was also pretty heavy to bring down to the water. Also, the rental was not in the best condition.

The single is awesome - It is quick and responsive. It works the legs but really works your stomach muscles. You lean backward in your seat and extend your legs. My stomach muscles were sore for 2 days, which is good as it offsets the beer belly. I took it out for about an hour. I was faster than all of the recreational kayakers. I bought a kayak dolley to wheel it down to the water, some racks for my car and side boat loader. I am able to put it up on my car and take it off my car by myself. It took some practice but it is possible. I drive a Jeep Cherokee. Anything taller than than that, and it would have been quite a struggle. I had a great time cruising around in it and would recommend it. However, rent one first to be certain.

Cheers !

[admin]

Hi Rich long time no type.. Great you're back enjoying the water! Its too cold here in the UK to be enjoying the water yet, if you're a wuss like me it is! Can you send us some of your So Cal weather dude? Cheers! ;O)

[njbirk]

Lyn,
Not out of line at all. I'm checking into it.
Nancy Birk
UBPN President