Subject: Re: [baidarka] Touring Kayak
From: Peter Chopelas (pac@premier1.net)
Date: Fri Oct 08 2004 - 20:42:06 EDT
> I was thinking for my next kayak of attempting a longer slightly wider
> folding Yost model with a longer cockpit for which there would be two
covers
> and configurations.
> One a one-man cowling and the seond a two man. A sort of Klepper/Yost. I
> have no idea if any such designs already exist, or if it is even feasible.
> I'm sure something would work, but no one wants, 'Well, its not too good
as
> a single, but it can quickly convert into a not very good double.'
I think this would be an error and difficult to build, extra fittings and
parts to make, and bring along etc. this would also put the two paddlers
too close together, they would always hit each other. You only see this
kind of arrangement in "white man" kayak doubles, never in native designs.
I would consider this; make it a bit larger for a single, but perhaps not
quite as big for a normal double, and put three hatches on it carefully
placed. Each hatch should be as far forward and aft as practical, and
placed to balance for a two man crew, the center hatch is simply a cargo
hatch. But the center hatch is perfectly placed and sized for one man
usage. The other two hatches then become cargo hatches when used as a
single. The only extra thing you have to make is two tight fitting fabric
hatch covers. This arrangement also works well for putting a child (or two)
in the center hatch if you want. It is light and simple and will perform
well eaither way. And it will have loads of room as an expedition "single".
Jim Mitchell let us borrow an Aleut type double that was almost like this
(the center hatch was a bit too small for an adult but a minor change in the
coaming size would have made it perfect). My youngest daughter was 6 at the
time and she had a good time riding in the center cargo hatch (and we could
keep and eye on her as we paddled too). I would have built one myself this
way except now my kids are all old enough, and have the desire to, paddle
their kayaks.
Peter
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