Anti-Hobie sentiment?

[Limits]

On another board, it seems there is a bias against Hobies. Why is that?

Is it the lack of storage? Stigma that Hobies aren't true "kayaks"? I can't figure it out.

All I know is that Hobie took real good care of me. I'm a customer for life after they hooked me up.

[semiwrecker]

:confused:they probably cant afford one?

[Jimmyz123]

Not everyone likes Hobies, me personally I'm sure they have their pluses and minuses, but I personally like the Ocean Kayaks, and Malibu kayaks. Not sure why people have such and dislike for them, they are pretty cool, just not my cup of tea.

[GunWall Flint]

:confused:they probably cant afford one?

Lol. thats a harsh statement

P.s i love my hobie

[dsafety]

Two words. Peddle Envy.

Bob

[Gino]

they dont make a big mans kayak :biggrinjester: OR else Id buy one!

[Dan]

i'm saving for one of these:

"shotgun!"
http://www.aqua-cycle.com/photos/aqua8l.jpg

[semiwrecker]

:phow much she cost? ^^^

[Dan]

seriously......have not heard one person who switched from paddle to peddle ever complain about it. I'd try one.

[deepdvr]

they dont make a big mans kayak :biggrinjester: OR else Id buy one!

Pro Angler?????

[Rob929]

Some guys say they are kayak "purists" and Hobie's aren't true kayaks.

I'm a fisherman. Whatever gets me there. Its hard to beat peddling a Hobie, and experienced hands free kayak fishing. I personally don't care if I'm not considered a "true" kayaker. For the application, peddling beats paddling hands down. not to mention efficiency and range. The Mirage drive is an impressive engineering accomplishment that allows hands free propulsion. That's my $.02. But the Hobie vs. paddle argument will live on..

[Limits]

Some guys say they are kayak "purists" and Hobie's aren't true kayaks.

I'm a fisherman. Whatever gets me there. Its hard to beat peddling a Hobie, and experienced hands free kayak fishing. I personally don't care if I'm not considered a "true" kayaker. For the application, peddling beats paddling hands down. not to mention efficiency and range. The Mirage drive is an impressive engineering accomplishment that allows hands free propulsion. That's my $.02. But the Hobie vs. paddle argument will live on..

Interesting. I guess that might be it.

Although, fishing yesterday, there's no way a guy in a paddle yak would have been able to fish the conditions I was in.

The current was so strong, you'd have to be able to wind in your line with ONE hand, and paddle with the other to keep you in place. With the Hobie, I was able to point the nose into the current, gently peddle and still be able to fish. When I stopped peddling, I was drifting 100 feet off the structure in about 2 minutes.

Still, to each their own I guess.

[cowboybill]

I must admit, as I mentioned in a previous post, that I am new to kayaks, not a real experienced fishing guy, etc.....

When I was shopping, part of me was turned off by the price of hobie ( I was shopping for 2 kayaks, 1 for me and 1 for the wife)....there was also a part of me that likes the simplicity of a boat, and a paddle...I own enough stuff that needs maintenance and lubrication.

And when you look at the drive, it has chains, pivots, moving parts, etc.

But having fished with a guy that has one, and seen how efficient the system works being hands free, it is hard to honestly argue against the peddle system, especially for fishing!

Its like water cooled engine vs air cooled...
Long travel suspension vs no suspension...
Disc brakes vs drum brakes...

I will say I like the upper body workout that paddling offers, as most things like hiking, bikes, etc tend to work out the legs mostly...


My only fear is that if I replace my paddle kayak with a peddle, and the wife has an even harder time keeping up, then I need 2 of them, and we are back to Money!!

AAaargh!!!

:linesnap:

[Jimmyz123]

Let me ask this you all that own Hobies, do you still take a paddle out with You in the event your peddle drive does not work for what ever reason?

[Ohana]

Let me ask this you all that own Hobies, do you still take a paddle out with You in the event your peddle drive does not work for what ever reason?

I take a paddle with me on my Hobie; the Hobie has an area on each side of the kayak to store the paddle. The mirage drive is great for trolling and/or making it easier to get from Point A to Point B very quickly. I use my paddle when I am in the kelp, planning to come ashore, or when I feel like giving my legs a rest. The nice thing about the mirage drive is you can set the drive so the fins store against the kayak hull, pull up the rudder, and now you can get in shallow or on the kelp with your paddle, then when you are in deeper water, deploy the fins and off you go.

I looked at a lot of kayak manufacturers and the reason I chose the Hobie is the quality of the kayak and the mirage drive in my experience allows you to maneuver the kayak while allowing your arms to be free to handle the rod.

Kevin

[fongman]

Let me ask this you all that own Hobies, do you still take a paddle out with You in the event your peddle drive does not work for what ever reason?
you'd be crazy not to take it with you. The last time I was in the bay, I was sprinting to the launch ramp when one of my turbo fins came loose. If I didn't have the paddle, I'd have to paddleboard it back to the ramp.

It's also useful when you want to push off from something, back up, or maneuver around in tight spaces (docks).

[Whizz Bang]

Just got my revo....it is INSANE!!!!!! I spent half the day just giggling like a school girl and pedalling like a lunatic....to easy.

[deepdvr]

Just got my revo....it is INSANE!!!!!! I spent half the day just giggling like a school girl and pedalling like a lunatic....to easy.

Yeah it was pretty embarrassing being around you and your giggling. Thanks again for the phone call on Friday afternoon with the following theme.....'YOU PICKED THE WRONG DAY TO FISH' :mad:

[Gino]

pro angler is a boat not a kayak :biggrinjester: at 100lbs dry, I'll stick to the Malibu Extreme

I dont like leaning back or the way I sit in the Hobie, makes me feel like im going to flip. Im sure adjusting the mirage Drive would fix most of that. I feel more at controll paddling than I do peddling.

[skipper]

I have a pro angler \EVO drive, spent the past week IN lake havusu , put 20 miles on and never did paddle or peddle . Iwas just FISHING!!!!:reel::reel::reel:

[steveooo]

Stigma that Hobies aren't true "kayaks"?


Winner Winner!
They aren't true "kayaks"- They are peddle powered whatevers.

But, they work great, are super efficient, and as you mentioned they have great customer service. I started with a Hobie due to a shoulder injury and have been sold since then. I do have a spot in my heart for paddleing though. The simplicity of grabbing a seat, a paddle and a rod seems rad to me, althouhg I don't know too many paddlers that would do that either....

[WahooUSMA]

I have a pro angler \EVO drive, spent the past week IN lake havusu , put 20 miles on and never did paddle or peddle . Iwas just FISHING!!!!:reel::reel::reel:

Now thats what I am talking about...my next investment....ProAngler and EVO drive...

How long can you go on a charge?

[dsafety]

The Mirage drive is a wonderful thing but you still need to bring along a paddle. If you want to go into the kelp, the peddle system will not cut it. Paddles are a necessity. Similarly, landing in big surf is easier with a paddle. I strap down the drive, raise the rudder and use the paddle on almost every landing.

That said, in my opinion, the Hobie system is far superior when used for a fishing platform. The other day I was chasing a fast moving YT feeding frenzy while trying to cast a jig stick.I peddled like an Olympic sprinter while getting my jig stick ready to cast. I would have to have chosen one activity or the other on a paddle kayak.

For the record, my Revo caught up with the fish and it only took me one cast to hook up.

Try it once and you will be a convert.

Bob

[Billy V]

Hobie makes a high quality kayak, and nice fishing accessories.

Custom plug and play bait tank, slick rod holders, good sealing hatches, good customer support after the purchase, and more.

The mirage drive is soo efficient that you'll probably gain weight after buying a Hobie. No Joke, is almost impossible to break a sweat.
--------------------------

[TCS]

It's a little like the longboarder vs. shortboarder controversy in surfing or skiing vs. snowboarding. There are a lot of guys out there that have been kayak fishing for a long time, are excellent fishermen, and they paddle their kayak. Then along comes the mirage drive, more popularity, and maybe the hobie makes if easier to be a good fisherman.

[semiwrecker]

Kayak: : an Eskimo canoe made of a frame covered with skins except for a small opening in the center and propelled by a double-bladed paddle...

So none of us are fishing out of true kayaks since we don't have the animal skins. So those Hobie guys are doin it ALLL wrong. No animal skins or double bladed paddle? Hobies arent real kayaks they're fake kayaks... i fish a fake kayak called a Pro Angler... so next time make sure to cover your PWC with fish skins that way it will become a kayak... :biggrinjester:

[Siebler]

Everybody has their own reasons for Disliking/ Liking of the Hobie Kayaks. Personal;ly I have found too many negatives to gain the one Positive of Hands Free Fishing. Some of the Negatives are not as big of a deal to others as they are to me. Again to each his/her own.

Plus after almost 10 years of Kayak fishing I just enjoy the paddling part.

And yes I have tried the Hobies and work on them for customers very regularly.

[robmandel]

dunno about anti-hobie sentiment. I think some guys just gotta bitch about something. I'll say this though: I've never been almost run over by a hobie :biggrinjester::biggrinjester:

we're all 6" above the water on a piece of plastic. how you move from point a to b under human propulsion, I gather, is irrelevant. I've actually never rode a hobie, maybe in part because I figure if I do, I'll never be happy until I get one :D :D :D also, I love paddling. to each their own.

every kayak has its pluses and minuses. hobies don't have the storage for rods (like my FND did and my T15 does) and they are less than ideal in the surf. they seem, seem, to be more popular closer to LJ where longer excursions are the norm. more up north, us malibu guys, don't see as many. our trips are shorter, and the surf a bit more interesting. but they work all the same.

one thing I've always been leery of, and I'll catch some shit for this :eek: :eek: :eek: is that old saying "mechanical device subject to failure". I htink every hobie owner I've fished with has had, at one (or many) time, some mechanical problem with them, and a few times, on the water. that is not to impugn hobies, or the company. great product, great company. and probably a stupid concern.

there are more important things to fight over. for instance, power pro sucks. use izor spectra. shimano calcuttas are way overpriced and come with crap drags. get a daiwa luna. oh, and 2-speed lever drag reels are simply so guys can brag they fish with 2-speed lever drag reels.
:sifone: :sifone: :sifone: :sifone: :sifone:

[Iceman]

http://leahklug.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/recumbentbike1.jpg

[dsafety]

OK Rob, I'll bite. Why do you think Power Pro sucks and Izor is better? Please start another thread so we can have a discussion.

I have no experience with any kind of Spectra other than Power Pro and need to fill a new reel, so I would like to hear what you have to say.

Bob

[Billy V]

My favotite kayak is.........

The Ocean Trident Torque
There, I said it out loud.

[Gino]

http://leahklug.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/recumbentbike1.jpg

They Make Bikes too!!! Hobie is doing it all these days!!! :biggrinjester:

[batty1of3]

Kayak: : an Eskimo canoe made of a frame covered with skins except for a small opening in the center and propelled by a double-bladed paddle...

So none of us are fishing out of true kayaks since we don't have the animal skins. So those Hobie guys are doin it ALLL wrong. No animal skins or double bladed paddle? Hobies arent real kayaks they're fake kayaks... i fish a fake kayak called a Pro Angler... so next time make sure to cover your PWC with fish skins that way it will become a kayak... :biggrinjester:
aha finally something to do with those pesky sea lions :biggrinjester:

[danny]

they dont make a big mans kayak :biggrinjester: OR else Id buy one!

This is a good kayak for a 300lbs fisherman it has the pedal drive and something the hobie lacks (reverse ) it is a A much better kayak. You have to want to flip this thing.

http://www.nativewatercraft.com/mariner_12_propel_lg.cfm

[robmandel]

OK Rob, I'll bite. Why do you think Power Pro sucks and Izor is better? Please start another thread so we can have a discussion.

I have no experience with any kind of Spectra other than Power Pro and need to fill a new reel, so I would like to hear what you have to say.

Bob

I use PP, sufix, and izor spectra. couldn't tell you the difference if my life depended on it. just figured if people are going to fight over whether hobies are real kayaks, we ought to fight over other things too :D :D :D

it's all good. in fact, I also use spiderwire spectra in the lighter tests on my baitcasting reels. like it quite a bit. some people don't.

just trying to get the juices flowing before cat. what better way to start a trip than by having people pissed at you. I was just having fun. never take anything I say seriously :biggrinjester: :biggrinjester: :biggrinjester:

friday can't come quick enough!!

[Gino]

This is a good kayak for a 300lbs fisherman it has the pedal drive and something the hobie lacks (reverse ) it is a A much better kayak. You have to want to flip this thing.

http://www.nativewatercraft.com/mariner_12_propel_lg.cfm


Posted Capacity is 375lbs... Not a good kayak for a 300lb guy who has a bait tank, and gear on board.

Im a 300lb guy, Malibu Extreme or X-factor probebly best boat for a bigger guy that still tracks straight.


Pro Angler is to heavy to wheel around, To heavy to lift up onto a car. Id get one if i had a flat bed truck. even then i think they are less stable than an x-factor or a extreme becuase you sit higher up in it.

[Siebler]

I use PP, sufix, and izor spectra. couldn't tell you the difference if my life depended on it.


The manner in Which Izor is coated and then Woven is what makes it different from the others. Also the White Spectra is superior in casting to others as it will not stick to itself.

Sorry had to give the answer.

[danny]

Posted Capacity is 375lbs... Not a good kayak for a 300lb guy who has a bait tank, and gear on board.

Im a 300lb guy, Malibu Extreme or X-factor probebly best boat for a bigger guy that still tracks straight.


Pro Angler is to heavy to wheel around, To heavy to lift up onto a car. Id get one if i had a flat bed truck. even then i think they are less stable than an x-factor or a extreme becuase you sit higher up in it.

you are welcome to try mine out. I took a lot of them out before I got the one i have I have had my bait tank full size ice chest, 36 pack, ice and all the kinds of gear in very ugly weather and I am sold on this design. The pontoon style is the way to go.

[fongman]

....I have had my bait tank full size ice chest, 36 pack, ice and all the kinds of gear in very ugly weather.....
where were you going with a full size ice chest filled with a 36 pack of beer? My guess is you were trolling for babes at the floatapalooza! :cheers1:

[danny]

where were you going with a full size ice chest filled with a 36 pack of beer? My guess is you were trolling for babes at the floatapalooza! :cheers1:

My friend have hobies so i need to carry the beer. 12 hours of fishing I can put down a 36 pack. I hope I am not the only Irish fisherman.

[steveooo]

Don't forget that Hobie makes good tandem yaks too!

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/11.jpg

[herbo]

As They Say "whatever floats your Boat!!! pedal -paddle it all ends up with the same results:reel: hook ups and sleigh rides.....:sifone:H

[bigbarrels]

[QUOTE=herbo;57110]As They Say "whatever floats your Boat!!! pedal -paddle it all ends up with the same results

I say.....any boat, as long as it floats :alberteinstein:

[MarkT]

The manner in Which Izor is coated and then Woven is what makes it different from the others. Also the White Spectra is superior in casting to others as it will not stick to itself.

Sorry had to give the answer.


Izor isn't coated, that's one of the things people like about it. PowerPro is coated and it wears/flakes off over time. They all stick to themselves after they get salty.

[SGV Rookie]

I just switched from pedal to paddle and love it. IMO, I feel a little more connected with the water when I paddle. I will probably buy another hobie later in life when possible, but for now I just want the basics so I can learn how to kayak fish better.

Hobie does make a strong durable yak, but my Wilderness systems yak impressed me. equal in the craftsmanship.

Dave

[Aaron]

The Mirage drive is a wonderful thing but you still need to bring along a paddle. If you want to go into the kelp, the peddle system will not cut it. Paddles are a necessity. Similarly, landing in big surf is easier with a paddle. I strap down the drive, raise the rudder and use the paddle on almost every landing.

That said, in my opinion, the Hobie system is far superior when used for a fishing platform. The other day I was chasing a fast moving YT feeding frenzy while trying to cast a jig stick.I peddled like an Olympic sprinter while getting my jig stick ready to cast. I would have to have chosen one activity or the other on a paddle kayak.

For the record, my Revo caught up with the fish and it only took me one cast to hook up.

Try it once and you will be a convert.

Bob

Yesterday, I was paddling like the dickens on my x-factor. I saw a school flare up and was just a bit too far. If i had pedals, no doubt i would have gotten there and no doubt I would have been launching that iron as I pulled up to the edge of the school. I can paddle at a decent speed but I still missed that school by literally 20-30 seconds and went home empty handed. The added speed and ability to have my jig stick in hand would have changed that result.

I would love a hobie, but as has been said, too rich for my blood right now. I love my x-factor. Its a great boat and I love how comfortable I feel on it after fishing it for all of this time. But yesterday, it would have been grand to have pedals. But then I ask myself, "How many times has this scenario happened"??? Not enough to justify the purchase for me obviously!! I'll likely keep paddling until someone wants to swap me for their hobie!

[lamb]

All I can think of is

http://advantageserviceltd.com/images/snickers.jpg

:biggrinjester:

[bubblehide]

I use to have a Hobie. Due to the rude and malicious Hobie rep I dealt with, I will never own one again. I'm aware that some people have had good experiences dealing with Hobie after the sale, but my experience was horrid.

They state that you have hands free (as in plural); frankly you don't due to the need to constantly keep a hand on the rudder control; so it's only one hand free.

I had a lengthy email exchange with the Hobie rep. Franky if anyone ever gets hurt on one of their pedal drive kayaks and they decide to sue Hobie, the emails I have from Hobie will sink them. I simply still can't believe the Hobie rep actually put what he did in writing.

I got rid of the Hobie yak I had, and haven't regretted it.

[Aaron]

I use to have a Hobie. Due to the rude and malicious Hobie rep I dealt with, I will never own one again. I'm aware that some people have had good experiences dealing with Hobie after the sale, but my experience was horrid.

They state that you have hands free (as in plural); frankly you don't due to the need to constantly keep a hand on the rudder control; so it's only one hand free.

I had a lengthy email exchange with the Hobie rep. Franky if anyone ever gets hurt on one of their pedal drive kayaks and they decide to sue Hobie, the emails I have from Hobie will sink them. I simply still can't believe the Hobie rep actually put what he did in writing.

I got rid of the Hobie yak I had, and haven't regretted it.

I'm sure I'm not the only one that would like to hear the details of this.

[dsafety]

I'm sure I'm not the only one that would like to hear the details of this.

I second the request. I know a lot of the Hobie guys and have always found them to be very helpful.

Bubblehide, if you have something to say, please say it.

Bob

[TCS]

And here is the anti hobie science!

http://ftlauderdaleyakfishingclub.org/hobieunplugged.html

btw....I'm in the market for a revo or adventure. Seriously.
Prefer turbo fins and sailing rudder. Send me a pm.

[dfroggy54]

And here is the anti hobie science!

http://ftlauderdaleyakfishingclub.org/hobieunplugged.html

btw....I'm in the market for a revo or adventure. Seriously.
Prefer turbo fins and sailing rudder. Send me a pm.


What a interesting article! Hobie and water go together like Ham and Cheese. hahaha Everyone should read that..

[fishinkid2010]

I use to have a Hobie. Due to the rude and malicious Hobie rep I dealt with, I will never own one again. I'm aware that some people have had good experiences dealing with Hobie after the sale, but my experience was horrid.

They state that you have hands free (as in plural); frankly you don't due to the need to constantly keep a hand on the rudder control; so it's only one hand free.

I had a lengthy email exchange with the Hobie rep. Franky if anyone ever gets hurt on one of their pedal drive kayaks and they decide to sue Hobie, the emails I have from Hobie will sink them. I simply still can't believe the Hobie rep actually put what he did in writing.

I got rid of the Hobie yak I had, and haven't regretted it.

I too am curious. Hobie and Fastlane were super helpful to me... they went so far as completely replacing my Revo, and upgrading it to a newer model.

Did you ever try talking with them over the phone or in person? Email can be so impersonal.

[Adam12]

I'm sure I'm not the only one that would like to hear the details of this.

X2

[j mo]

They state that you have hands free (as in plural); frankly you don't due to the need to constantly keep a hand on the rudder control; so it's only one hand free.



LMFAO! Great point im taking my Hobie back and telling them it doesnt self steer.....

[fongman]

What a interesting article! Hobie and water go together like Ham and Cheese. hahaha Everyone should read that..
I'm a Hobie owner, but I will try to make an unbiased assessment of the article. Marketing hype is just that; HYPE. It is meant to generate interest, and ultimately sales.

It is not that big of a deal if a manufacturers doesn't include hard numbers in their sales pitches. All it says is: that was not a part of their marketing strategy. Besides, you'd be a fool to believe any data provided by a manufacturer without some skepticism. Numbers can be skewed and "facts" can be taken out of context. Ask any politician! Consumers should look to reputable independent reviewers for unbiased empirical data.

In the article, the author also lamblasts Hobies on their poor showing in races against HPB (human powered boats) and for other inefficiencies. Are these numbers skewed? Possibly. What type of vessels were they racing against? Did the competing vessels have the same drag coefficient so you can get a more accurate comparison of the propulsion methods? Looking at these HPB (http://www.humanpoweredboats.com/index.htm) you would expect them to be more efficient in the water due to the fact that they aren't plastic kayaks. The hulls seem to have their roots from racing shells. One thing for sure: those pictured wouldn't make very good fishing platforms!

[swinginFish]

Doctor said I need more lower body exercise. Wife wouldn't accommodate, so bought a pedal-drive kayak. Hec, I bought 2! Now have a Revo (for sale) and Adventure, an OK Trident 15 (also for sale), and have had 3 scupper pros, a Prowler 15 & 13. Also tried & reviewed a number of kayaks a few years back for Canoe & Kayak magazine. Point is that I've a bit of experience w/a variety of yaks, preferring paddling to peddling in general, but having to turn to/add pedals for issues of health. Having viewed this thread, offer following observation: Paddling is simpler - fewer things to go wrong. Also slower and not too easy to pour and drink a hot cup of coffee while searching for bait on a dark, cold morning.

Paddle yaks can go forward and backward. Hobies can't w/out the necessary bring-along paddle. Kelp doesn't like the <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comhttp://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwevb/ /><st1:Street><st1:address><FONT color=blue><FONT face=Mirage Drive</st1:address></st1:Street> much, and if fishing boiler rocks w/ occasional waves, having a quick reverse is critical. Landing and launching w/out hanging pedals on the beach or serving as unwanted resistance to the push of waves isn't pleasant either, and a front hatch that’s too small to allow stowage of the pedal thing inside causes one to question what the Hobie designers were thinking. Should note also that fishing lines and fish tend to misbehave, i.e., they go where they want at times, and that means into your not-so-"Mirage" Drive and/or rudder system. The Hobie “twist & stow” rudder system is also something I find annoying and unnecessarily complex (over-engineered) - and I'm not referring to its now-"upgraded" dual knob approach for deployment. With pedal drives, there's just more stuff down there, so more vigilance is needed. <O:p

In my case, I figured the Hobie Adventure offered a reasonable mix of options, i.e., its long, narrow, tracks, paddles and pedals well. Down side - its long and narrow and, while fast, is akin to the Scupper Pro, i.e., wet and a tad tippy. Thus far, it seems storage and stowing comparatively sucks in all foot-powered Hobies (pedal drive takes up a lot of internal/central hull space - can't stow rods, nor anything of size like you can in a OK Trident), but it doesn't take an Einstein to recognize that everything's a trade off, and there simply is no "perfect" boat out there. IMHO, the real trick is to look at a lot of boats and how they're rigged, and outfit whatever you have/acquire so that it gets close to meeting your needs. Then, through use, refine the rigging so that its as robust and user-friendly as possible, and fish on it a lot so that reaching for stuff becomes second-nature. <O:p

In the final analysis, the kayaks we're most familiar with are all just pieces of polyethylene, with the thrill of catching a big fish from a pedal or paddle-propelled craft great no matter which is used (Not too long ago, it was the thrill - not the craft - that generated a sense of brotherhood amongst kayak fishermen). Granted, the pedaled craft can go faster and uses less energy to get you most of the places you want to go, but at a price. In my case, I’ve proven that I can/do get backlashes while chucking iron from any platform, and the fish under the birds I've been chasing still seem to head south no matter how – or how fast - I don’t get to them. Indeed, I’ve proven myself able to farm good-grade pescado from every craft I’ve ever fished on.<O:p

Life is full of choices, and whether we like it or not, it is also a moving target. In other words, our needs can/do change over time. The question of pedals versus paddle may be interesting, but in the greater scope of things, rather irrelevant. That said, bringing a thermos and having my hands free to pour and sip something hot as I pedal off to who-knows-where in the frigid pre-dawn hours has, at this time of my life, rather persuasive appeal. <O:p

Avery

[dsafety]

I'm a Hobie owner, but I will try to make an unbiased assessment of the article. Marketing hype is just that; HYPE. It is meant to generate interest, and ultimately sales.

It is not that big of a deal if a manufacturers doesn't include hard numbers in their sales pitches. All it says is: that was not a part of their marketing strategy. Besides, you'd be a fool to believe any data provided by a manufacturer without some skepticism. Numbers can be skewed and "facts" can be taken out of context. Ask any politician! Consumers should look to reputable independent reviewers for unbiased empirical data.

In the article, the author also lamblasts Hobies on their poor showing in races against HPB (human powered boats) and for other inefficiencies. Are these numbers skewed? Possibly. What type of vessels were they racing against? Did the competing vessels have the same drag coefficient so you can get a more accurate comparison of the propulsion methods? Looking at these HPB (http://www.humanpoweredboats.com/index.htm) you would expect them to be more efficient in the water due to the fact that they aren't plastic kayaks. The hulls seem to have their roots from racing shells. One thing for sure: those pictured wouldn't make very good fishing platforms!

All good points Fongman. This thread is starting to remind me of a Shakespeare play. Much Ado About Nothing.

To me it all comes down to this. If you like the Hobie design, buy one. If not, buy something else.

Bob

[Iceman]

Sage observations from Brother Avery:sifone:

[swinginFish]

Andy,

Not sure about the "sage" part, but do know I miss the smell of the traditional victory cigar whafting o'er the waves well before I see you.

LJ's been bery bery good to me lately. Wish you were here!

Avery

[batty1of3]

i just feel the upper body workout is better than just legs
in fact for weight loss upper body workouts burn more calories since the legs were made for doing repetitive steady work like walking and running upper body is more built for using bursts or energy like lifting or throwing
that being said i would use whatever i can to get out on the water :D

[Aaron]

Avery,
That was a great summary. Thanks. The only thing I didn't like was your use of comic sans! Good lord I hate that font.
-Aaron

[aftahour]

i want a hobie.

[IntrntFshrman]

Why not have both? After a couple of 'harrowing' surf entrances where I really wish I had the hobie pedals to haul ass, I am thinking of getting the pro-angler (I am a 'plus' size guy...) and see no reason why you can't use the pedals when you need them (surf launch, chasing boils) but paddle otherwise for the exercise.

Seems to me it's nice to have the drive for those times you need that burst of speed.

I can't wait for summer!!

[miguelitro]

I would like to try a peddle boat but I cannot see myself wanting nor needing to own one!
I like the upper body work out and the simplicity of a paddle boat.
Mike

[Willy]

No doubt, Hobie's are super cool.

However, there is something within me that boils in my gut as one scoots by.

At first I thought...what's that smell? Jealously? Is that coming from my boat?
Then I realized it. It was the look on the face of the Hobie guy.

It's the same look on the face of the Prius guy as he drives by you in the carpool lane, all by himself;
chin just a little higher...lips slightly curled back into a super self satisfied sneer.

Did he just raise a pinky as he adjusted that rudder!?!

He's not doing it on purpose.
He does it when he's alone too.
He doesn't know he's doing it at all.
Let him be.

As I chug along, burning gas, cursing the guy rigging up his poles as he's going forward into the current...I realize the smell is coming from my boat.

Meh.
Curse you Hobie guy.

Willy

[sandydiego]

I am just happy to be out on the water fishing off a floating chunk of plastic guys.

[TCS]

Classic post Willy! The smog of the La Jolla's been getting better, but it's being quickly replace by a big cloud of smug!

btw. just bought and adventure, working on the pinky flex.

[walrus]

Basically the way I see it, it doesn't matter if you peddle or paddle. I don't care if your kayka is plastic or animal skins.:captain:

When you're kayak is full of fish, I just want to know what you're doing to catch the fish. :reel:

[Spyder]

I would like to give a Hobie a test drive. I have been paddling a Cobra F&D for years now and although I like the stability and capacity, my shoulders and back and killing me by the time I get off the water. Where is the nearest dealer in SD?

[Holy Mackerel]

Where is the nearest dealer in SD?

OEX Oceanside, support my good friend Nate, and BWE sponsor...!

http://www.oexoceanside.com/

Fastlane is cool too.

[steamroll]

Thanks Chris

[dsafety]

Why not have both? After a couple of 'harrowing' surf entrances where I really wish I had the Hobie pedals to haul ass, I am thinking of getting the pro-angler (I am a 'plus' size guy...) and see no reason why you can't use the pedals when you need them (surf launch, chasing boils) but paddle otherwise for the exercise.

Seems to me it's nice to have the drive for those times you need that burst of speed.

I can't wait for summer!!

I had the same thought when I bought my Revo. I really like paddling a kayak when just out joy riding. I thought I would use the peddles when fishing and leave them at home when going out with one of my paddling friends for a leisurely cruise.

Never happened!

The only time I break out the paddle is when I need to go into the kelp, shift into reverse gear or when launching or landing. Maybe I just got lazy or maybe I am now just too smug to be bothered with paddles. Whatever it is, I am very content to use the peddles just about all the time.

Please don't hate me for this.

Bob

[flydigital]

my 2 cents...

I used to paddle until my shoulders were giving me too much trouble. I could either stop/slow my kayak fishing frequency or switch to pedal drive. Easy choice.

First time out in the new hobie I definately noticed a different attitude towards me by paddlers. Basically I got less respect. Big deal, I'm still out there fishing and enjoying myself, even more now.

I thought at first that the exercise level would be better with the pedals (more cardio) but it turns out that is not the case. The hobie is more efficient for propulsion than paddling, and you work less. Lately I've been paddling on my way back in for the extra workout (the Revo is a pretty good paddler when used with the rudder), so I get the best of both worlds.

Fishing performance wise, I don't think there is any measuable difference between pedal or paddle. Each needs to be used with a different technique to maximize potential but in the end its all the same. The only edge I see is that the hobie can move more consistently through all kinds of conditions, and since it takes less work you can go further.

[peguinpower]

I have a nice paddling kayak, and the Hobie Revo. I use both. Happy with both. I bring one out, I get lower body exercise, the other and I get upper body. I'd use the paddling kayak more if it also had a thru hull transducer. But I'm not inclined to bore a hole in another hull............ for a while :)

[MVC]

I have a Prowler 13 and a Hobie Revo. I use them both. I like the Prowler for the bays. It is easier to fish around the docks. If I am going to go a long distance, I always take the Hobie.

[Fiskadoro]

On another board, it seems there is a bias against Hobies. Why is that?

Which board? Who said what? I always love these somebody said something posts.

The gripes I have heard about Hobies is they do not paddle well or stay straight when paddling them in the surf.

I think they have brilliant drives but that drives ability has let Hobie get away with making essentially low performance hulls.

You can tell just by looking at them they are inefficient and would paddle poorly. In fact if you own a hobie and want to see what I'm talking about, I suggest you leave your drive at home one day and just paddle all day and you'll quickly see why some do not like them.

To me it all makes no sense. Hobie could easily put their drives in better hulls and they would be even faster then they are, even better kayaks.

I considered buying one but after checking them out I just bought a drive and I'm going to mount it in better more efficient kayak that will paddle and peddle well.


Just my take..

Jim

[dsafety]

Jim, we all know that you are a craftsman and an innovator. I, for one, am really looking forward to seeing whatever you end up mounting your Mirage drive into. I just hope that it is not made of metal.

I love my Revo but what you say is true. The design could be improved but why should Hobie do it if they are selling all they can make. Hobies are kind of like iPhones. The product works well and they have earned a semi-cult following. Baby-steps in improvements are often touted as revolutionary events. You pay a premium price for the unique features offered in iPhones and Hobie kayaks.

As mentioned by someone earlier in this thread, it appears that some of us who are fortunate enough to have a Hobie may have taken on a bit of arrogance, even snobbishness. I hope that is not the case but it certainly could be true. If so, I am sure that it is unintentional.

Maybe if you come up with a game changing design, someone will take notice and run with it. If that happens, we would all win.

Bob

[steveooo]

You can tell just by looking at them they are inefficient and would paddle poorly. In fact if you own a hobie and want to see what I'm talking about, I suggest you leave your drive at home one day and just paddle all day and you'll quickly see why some do not like them.



I have a Hobie Adventure. I do take it out sans mirage drive sometimes. It paddles and tracks a million times better than my old eXtreme, or the old ok scrambler I used to rent. Its like a 16 ft dagger. It isn't going to be as efficient as a tarpon 160, but relatively speaking, it paddles better than some other "traditional" kayaks on the market. I also used to have an outback. Exactly like paddling an giant egg...

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/Hobie_Kay_Adventure_Spe.jpg

[Limits]

Which board? Who said what? I always love these somebody said something posts.

The gripes I have heard about Hobies is they do not paddle well or stay straight when paddling them in the surf.

I think they have brilliant drives but that drives ability has let Hobie get away with making essentially low performance hulls.

You can tell just by looking at them they are inefficient and would paddle poorly. In fact if you own a hobie and want to see what I'm talking about, I suggest you leave your drive at home one day and just paddle all day and you'll quickly see why some do not like them.

To me it all makes no sense. Hobie could easily put their drives in better hulls and they would be even faster then they are, even better kayaks.

I considered buying one but after checking them out I just bought a drive and I'm going to mount it in better more efficient kayak that will paddle and peddle well.


Just my take..

Jim

I didn't mention the site's name out of respect for them and the site mods/owners. I'm a mod on another site and we have a strict 'no bashing' other sites policy so we refrain from specifically mentioning them when there are criticisms.

However since you asked, PM sent.

[Limits]

I have a Prowler 13 and a Hobie Revo. I use them both. I like the Prowler for the bays. It is easier to fish around the docks. If I am going to go a long distance, I always take the Hobie.

I concur 100%.

I'm thinking about picking up a paddle yak for bay fishing where I don't need to paddle for distance.

[erick]

:reeling:I keep seeing pictures of guys holding big fish on a kayak with hobie graphics on it. Hobie looks good to me.

[bus kid]

I got the best of both worlds. I bought a Quest. Hobie Reputation - mirage drive, who said you cant please all the people all the time.:D

[Fiskadoro]

I have a Hobie Adventure. I do take it out sans mirage drive sometimes. It paddles and tracks a million times better than my old eXtreme, or the old ok scrambler I used to rent. Its like a 16 ft dagger. It isn't going to be as efficient as a tarpon 160, but relatively speaking, it paddles better than some other "traditional" kayaks on the market. I also used to have an outback. Exactly like paddling an giant egg...

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/Hobie_Kay_Adventure_Spe.jpg

I forgot about this thread. I'll tell ya Steveooo "Exactly like paddling an giant egg..." part just cracks me up every time I see it.

Too Funny!!!

Jim

[lterrero]

All I can say is,, hands free:cool:

[bus kid]

I forgot about this thread. I'll tell ya Steveooo "Exactly like paddling an giant egg..." part just cracks me up every time I see it.

Too Funny!!!

Jim

oldtimers disease really sucks. its not cool that "they" labeled you a "Senior Member" either..:D

[Fiskadoro]

oldtimers disease really sucks. its not cool that "they" labeled you a "Senior Member" either..:D

Growing older sure beats the alternative, and actually I'm kind of "Young for my age" As to "Senior Member" I see it as kind of complimentary like "Biggus Dickus"

<object height="385" width="480">


<embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Bumfnms6ovA?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></object>

:biggrinjester:

[bus kid]

nice one Jim :notworthy:

[yak addact]

sometimes when I've had a crummy day at work I remember my kayak is at home waiting for me and at a moments notice is ready to go create another adventure I'll never forget and the crummy day... is forgotten. So whether you paddle or peddle who cares because it really doesn't matter when your being towed. If its made of hard plastic,floats and doesn't require gas what is it ?

[lterrero]

LMFAO! Great point im taking my Hobie back and telling them it doesnt self steer.....Try to paddler with one hand & steer at the same time, but don't worry j mo I'm working in a Autopilot :)

[steveooo]

If its made of hard plastic,floats and doesn't require gas what is it ?


OOOh OOOh, I Know!


http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d154/bigsteveorr/pedal_boat21.jpg

[old_rookie]

OOOh OOOh, I Know!


http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d154/bigsteveorr/pedal_boat21.jpg

now THAT is something I'd like to ride....

[tagyak]

No doubt, Hobie's are super cool.

However, there is something within me that boils in my gut as one scoots by.

At first I thought...what's that smell? Jealously? Is that coming from my boat?
Then I realized it. It was the look on the face of the Hobie guy.

It's the same look on the face of the Prius guy as he drives by you in the carpool lane, all by himself;
chin just a little higher...lips slightly curled back into a super self satisfied sneer.

Did he just raise a pinky as he adjusted that rudder!?!

He's not doing it on purpose.
He does it when he's alone too.
He doesn't know he's doing it at all.
Let him be.

As I chug along, burning gas, cursing the guy rigging up his poles as he's going forward into the current...I realize the smell is coming from my boat.

Meh.
Curse you Hobie guy.

Willy

thanks willy for your post.
it reminds me of when stinkymatt and i were first getting into this kayak thing and i was the one saying that we should get the hobie. instead stinkymatt convinced me that we should get the paddle kayak, so i got mine first. then stinkymatt got his hobie!!!
went to newport and watched stinkymatt catch fish while peddling and i was paddling trying to fish and keep up.
that was it, my marauder went onto C.L. and i searched for my hobie. i haven't looked back since.
for me it is all about comfort and laziness to an extent. my mother always said "why work harder, when you can work smarter".:)

[Billy V]

A couple of years ago I was out fishing off LJ in my Hobie Revo with 2 other friend that were on a Tarpon 16, and a Scupper Pro.

We were about a mile and a half out fishing a little deeper when the worst Santa Anna I ever saw blew up out of nowhere.

The first thing we notice was all the wind stopped suddenly and then it changed directions to offshore and then we could hear it coming.:eek:

- You could see the ripples build over the glass flat water until there were 3 ft. wind waves spaced a few feet apart.
25-30 mph winds no BS. You could barely turn the kayak around without flipping.

As it was all happening I saw 3 lime green rental kayaks blow by me, and past the Children's Pool. My friend on the Scupper Pro made a dash for the kelp and hung onto the stringers until the lifeguards picked him up and towed his kayak into shore. The same happened to the 6 female Tourist.

When I look around to see if anybody else was around I saw this guy on a Yellow Revo Yo- Yoing as if it was just another day. He was using his peddles to stay in place, and the rudder to make adjustments to his position.
(Take a wild guess who this was) :)

I asked if he was going to head back in and he said "No problem we got the peddles" lmao So we stayed a bit longer (just because we could) and after a short while started to head back to the shores.
------------------------------------
All the awhile I had been watching my friend on the Tarpon 16 try his best to make headway. It was very difficult to watch him struggle, and he was becoming exhausted. He said his hands were numb from the wind splashing water on his hands and blowing away his insulation layer of air.

-So with the helicopter circling above, the SD PD boat, and Lifeguards on boats and jetskis asking - we returned to shore.

- I grabbed the bow handle on his tarpon and towed him in a little ways to give him a rest and allow his hands to recover. Once we got to the reserve buoys he was able to return under his own power.
-----------------------
I wouldn't recommend that anybody deliberately try this, but we were out there when it happened and made the best of it.

I got a chance to give a real life torture test to my Hobie under the worst condition possible and it passed with flying colors.

"No Problem we got the peddles"