Last week I purchased a new Perception Expression 15.0 touring kayak. My planned use for the boat is longer self-contained river trips. The boat has a roomy cockpit, and plenty of room for storage. The bungees on the deck allow for the option of putting gear in waterproof bags and stowing them on the deck.
I took the boat out to a local lake on Sunday and paddled around for a couple of hours. First and foremost, the boat is fast, when compared to boats I've paddled in the past. (I have extensive experience paddling canoes and whitewater kayaks.) The retractable skeg helps the boat track very straight. I also had the optional rudder installed. The rudder helps the boat turn far more quickly than I had ever imagined. Raising and lowering the skeg is incredibly fast and easy. Raising and lowering the rudder is only slightly less fast.
The seat is highly adjustable, and very comfortable. Even after sitting in the boat for a couple of hours, I never felt cramped or uncomfortable.
My setup has two possible downsides, which I have not yet tested. Other owners of this boat say that the rudder and the height of the seat's backrest make rolling and self rescues somewhat problematic. I haven't yet purchased a spray skirt, so I can't yet say one way or the other. Once I try, I'll report back.
Overall, I am incredibly pleased with my purchase, and I can't wait to take the boat on its first extended expedition. In the meantime, I will spend some time getting familiar with it, and some money equipping it. I've read about some kayak sails that I'm excited to try out.
For more information on the boat, click here.
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2 comments:
i'd thought about one of these until I saw the price........ouch.....(for me anyway)
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