Article from the November 2011 issue of Popular Mechanics.
Some like it wet
Hobie’s legendary catamaran, the Hobie Cat, has been providing adrenaline-induced fun for water junkies for over 40 years.
But if screaming through the surf zone at breakneck speed with one pontoon pointing precariously skyward seems a tad extreme, don’t sweat.
Thanks to their new range of rotomoulded polyethylene kayaks – all fitted with Hobie’s revolutionary MirageDrive pedalling system – you’re sure to find a derivative that’s perfect for you.
We check out their MirageDrive and three models from their extensive range to whet your appetite…
A tri made for two
If you’re looking for a fun multi-sport boat for two, the Mirage Tandem Island is worth a closer look. In its most elemental form, it’s a fast, two-person kayak. But once you attach the two akas (crossbeams), the Amas (pontoons) and the two-piece carbon fibre rig and sailing kit (all included), two of you can go flying across the water, powered by a roller-furling, boomless mainsail.
Both cockpits have steering- and sail-control lines, making it ideal for partners of all abilities. The craft comes with generous storage space, two MirageDrives with turbo fins, adjustable padded seats with inflatable lumbar supports, and a fully-retractable, kick-up centreboard.
Specifications
Length: 5,64 m
Width (pontoons out): 3,05 m
Mast height: 5,49 m
Hull weight: 39,9 kg
Ama weight: 2 x 10 kg
Rigged weight: 86,18 kg
Carrying capacity: 272 kg
Don’t paddle, pedal
Hobie’s MirageDrive propulsion system was born from the theory that it’s easier to push something with your legs (think big muscles) than it is to pull something with your upper body (smaller muscles). The double-scissor action of the drive, apparently inspired by the study of penguins, propels their hulls incredibly well.
Here’s how it works:
two pedals, mounted on levers forward of the kayak’s seat, are attached to two underwater fins via the drive’s robust, lightweight mechanism. When you pedal, the flexible fins assume the shape of a propeller blade, providing forward trust with each stroke. And because each fin inverts its shape on the backstroke, the drive is able to generate equal power on both sides (just like a good paddler), keeping the kayak tracking evenly and moving at an efficient speed.
The fins “feather” when not in use to reduce drag, and they can be folded up flush against the hull when you’re exploring shallow water or beaching. To get going, all you need do is slide the unit into its trunk, lock it in place with a “click”, and you’re off.
Fun multitasker
Smooth, stable and built for two, the Mirage Outfitter was designed with utility, performance and ease-of-use in mind. Onboard, little features such as moulded utility trays, built-in drink holders, dual helm controls and conveniently positioned rod holders make it a pleasure to use. Whether it’s a solo after-work session or a long weekend of float casting with a friend, it boasts a wide, stable hull platform, dual MirageDrives and ample stowage space to keep you well provisioned and properly organised.
Optional extras include a sail kit, bimini, dodger and plug-in cart.
Specifications
Length: 3,86 m
Width: 0,86 m
Hull weight: 32,66 kg
Capacity: 193 kg
- For more information, contact Hobie Cat Southern Africa on 011-792 0414 or visit www.hobie.co.za
Fishing made easy
Put simply, the Mirage Pro Angler is a no-nonsense fishing boat. Its fishing-specific hull form provides great stability, and its deck design is packed with all the essentials – from an easy-to-reach cutting board to a comfortable adjustable seat to space for 13 Plano tackle boxes.
It carries six rods in its horizontal rod stowage area, and its voluminous bow and stern lockers and on-deck storage accommodate an impressive 272 kg payload. In short, it’s the perfect boat for all fishing environments, from farm dams to lakes and even the open ocean. A livewell and electric motor are also available as optional extras.
Specifications
Hull weight: 39,9 kg
Width: 0,97 m
Length: 4,17 m
Lantern or headlamp: your choice
Intrepid adventurers on the hunt for a compact, multifaceted light should check out Joby’s latest offering, the Gorillatorch Switchback. This combination lantern-headlamp comes with five powerful LEDs, including a 130-lumen spotlight. Featuring six brightness settings and an adjustable dimmer switch, it supplies the right amount of illumination for any outdoors occasion.
As a lantern, it’s capable of illuminating an 8-person family tent or small cabin. A flexible stand allows it be hooked inside a tent, placed on a table or attached to a nearby tree branch (it can also be used as a camera tripod).
The Switchback comes with two additional white LEDs for floodlighting and two red LEDs for night vision. Two AA batteries provide up to 72 hours of light. Price: about R600. Available from selected Cape Union Mart stores. Call 0860 034 000 or visit www.capeunionmart.co.za
