Subject: Re: [baidarka] Folding Kayaks versus Traditional Baidarkas
From: Windwalker (windwalker@fastmail.fm)
Date: Fri Aug 01 2003 - 22:43:32 EDT
On Fri, 2003-08-01 at 21:28, Kevin50110@aol.com wrote:
I'm a confirmed baidarka builder but where does this 'stuff'' about folding
kayaks being slow heavy tubs come from? To be sure there are a few out there,
but I think the opinion comes from ignorance and possibly a misguided promotion
of the baidarka above all else. Hogwash! The boats are different and built
for different but overlapping areas. I have a lovely 17 ' X 20" baidarka. I love
it for what I do, fast day trips and light touring. I wouldn't try to travel
from Europe to the Americas with it, or from Venezuela to a Caribbean Island
as John Dowd did, fight a serious multi day storm, fish off shore or take it
from Puget Sound to Anchorage, although I know it can be done. I wouldn't like
to single paddle an Aerius II , or even an Aerius 1, on a day trip either. It's
what you want to do, not one is a tub, and one is perfect. Of course no one
has ever heard of a Feathercraft Khatsalano at 17' 9" x 23" and is a very fast
boat. Faster than many baidarkas. Guess that don't count huh? Peter, lighten
up. Getting out on the water, no matter how you do it, even in a folding tub,
is too much fun to be saddled with such an attitude. Wave at a double fold boat
the next time you paddle past it. It will do you good.
KMN
Some padle in a craft to be historical correct, Or a attempt to paddle a
Native craft.
Some paddle for "SPEED" which seems to me most do. Others prefer a craft
that can be flown or taken anywhere by transport. Try taking your rigid
frame on a train or airline.
Some paddle for purely long distance and sailing or expedition use.
Some paddle craft for the ability to carry a payload..
You cant beat the folders if you travel alot.
If one cant use his boat multi purpose, then why have it??
SPEED is what all seem to seek, and if one is a long time paddler, then
this is what one outgrows.
W
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