''COMBI by Thomas Yost''
COMBI by Thomas Yost
The COMBI Double -
A double folder that can be assembled as a single.
Design
The COMBI folding kayak can be assembled as a double, or a single.
The benefits of this conversion were to allow me to construct two
boats for nearly the price of one, while having all
the paddling options that the two kayaks configurations provide.
The double version uses 9 cross sections for it's 21.5ft frame,
and the single uses 6 of those same cross sections when
assembled as a 15 footer.
Construction is of aluminum tubing and HDPE "snap-on" cross-sections.
Coaming, footrest, and backrest are of these same materials.
With a 21.5ft length, 26.5" beam, and an estimated final weight of 55lbs., this medium volume double is on the performance end of the touring spectrum. It's moderate rocker and
deadrise , will permit good tracking and turning capabilities. Paddlers are spaced 6.5ft apart to allow plenty of room for individual paddling freedom. The double features inwales,
and secondary snap-on chines.
An extra set of "snap-on" chines between the keel and hard-chine limit the amount of skin "concave" . Inwales provide additional rigidity required by the added length and width of the
double. Neither of these assemblies is required for "single" use.
Assembly time is under 40min.
Conversion/assembly as a double or single is made
possible by having a symmetrical hull shape with
sections 1-4 being identical to sections 6-9. Assembly
of the single is simply a
matter of arranging the 6 cross sections in the following
sequence. ( 1-3, 7-9.) The addition of Sections 4-6 and
associated tubing is required for Double assembly. No additional parts
are required for either frame configuration.
Two skins are required, but it's is a small price to pay
for two kayaks with the construction time and cost of one.
With a 15ft length ,a 22.5" beam, and estimated
final weight of 30lbs, this fairly low volume single
should provide lively performance. Assembly time is under 30min.
Folders are already versatile kayaks, but with the
addition of this conversion feature, the versatility
is extended greatly. Add a
folding sailrig and you have
the "Swiss Army Knife of Kayaks".
Contributors to this page:
Thomas Yost (TDY), Patrick Poirier (PPR), Gerald Maroske (GUM) and Hendrik Maroske (HHM)