Subject: Re: [baidarka] Knee braces in a baidarka?
From: James Mitchell (baidarka@earthlink.net)
Date: Tue Dec 16 2003 - 08:17:39 EST
Bill, I made a couple spare "2 deck beams (the size I use behind the
cockpit) and installed them in a triangle from the center of the masik
to the gunwales. It is a very compound angle, difficult to cut, but it
works well. The bend that would normally support the long deck beam
comes in the middle so that the rib comes straight back from the masik.
The cockpit rim rests on the knee rest. At that point, the angle kicks
in and the brace drops to the gunwale. The port and starboard braces
are about two inches apart at the center of the masik, which leaves
plenty of room for getting in and out of the boat. I also use a 28"
cockpit rim.
I have put this setup on all my boats and have retrofitted it on
several other baidarka's. It was originally Corey's idea, although he
usually uses a straight piece. I much prefer the curve. Also the size
makes it easy to attach foam for cushioning.
Also tighten the fit at your hips. Foam blocks can be secured in place
to lock your hips in solidly. Very important for rolling. You should
fit VERY snugly if you want to roll. For more security, shape the side
foams concave so they fit your hips by capturing them into the seat.
The seat should grip your hips.
I use a Thermarest pillow as a seat bottom, and I use a commercial seat
back attached to the ribs on either side. The foams and the knee rests
take the load. I am relying less and less on my foot braces; frankly,
don't really need them if I have the seat and knee braces correct.
I may have a picture of the knee braces, if you can send me your email
address.
On Tuesday, December 16, 2003, at 09:49 PM, Bill Samson wrote:
> Hi,
>
> I wonder if anyone's encountered the same problem as me with the
> baidarka -
> my cockpit is a 28" long (for easy entry) and the masik (or whatever
> the
> Aleuts call it) is for'ard of my kneecaps. This isn't ideal for a knee
> brace and I tend to fall out in an upside-down emergency.
>
> Has anyone tried fitting braces at the front/sides of the cockpit, and
> if
> so, what arrangement works for you? Materials? Pics if possible?
>
> Also, has anyone fitted a comfortable back strap or similar to a
> baidarka
> cockpit? Hip pads? Once again, hints and tips will be gratefully
> welcomed!
>
> I'm planning a longish trip next spring, so I'd like her to be fitted
> out to
> the nth degree.
>
> Yours in anticipation,
>
> Bill Samson
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