Maiden Voyage

Finally! Today I took my 2009 Adventure on its maiden voyage. Thank you Hobie for selling the Mirage kayaks. I just turned 61 and can see this kayak will allow me to live a healthier and more interesting life. I have a bad left shoulder and the Mirage Drive fills the bill for my on-water adventures.

I upgraded my Adventure to the Turbo Fins and Sailing Rudder before I ever put it in teh water. I have not a clue what the difference in the fins is but the large rudder is very efficient and definitely makes powerful noise when making turns.

The Adventure tracks straight on flat water and is easy to operate. Even with 'out of shape legs' this Adventure hauls the mail.

The factory settings seemed to work well for me. I am 6'0" and did not adjust the drive pedal positions. The seat was installed in the more aft holes and the back straps were eventually tightened to the max. Time will tell on these settings.

The addition of handle behind the seat and maybe one on each side of the inside of the rear storage area would be a good idea. This will help lift the rear of the kayak to insert and remove the cart.

Short outings of 1-2 hours 3-4 times a week will help me get in better kayaking shape as well as more bicycling, running, and walking.

The lake I kayaked at today is Lake Natoma. It is relatively a small lake though beautiful with wildlife and decent fishing. It has multiple launch areas with easy access and good parking.

The verdict is in and I am guilty of enjoying the Hobie Adventure and not regretting what I spent on a new 2009 model.

The next accessory will most likely be the SideKick Ama kit. After I become a better Hobie kayak sailor (1 or 2 years) I would like to add the Island kit.

Suggestions, suggestions, suggestions, are a good thing for this Hobie kayak newbie.

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Tim
'09 Adventure, Golden Papaya, Turbo Fins, Large Sailing Rudder, Turquoise Sail, Grey Haired Kayaker, ...

Congrats Tim on your maiden voyage!
Hope you get as much enjoyment out of yours as we have.
Wow -this is your 48th post and you've only just got it in the water! Keep em comin'!