rudder handle throw and rudder throw questions

Howdy,

My boat is a 2011 Oasis, but perhaps this applies to Hobies across the board.

1) The rudder handle: I would have thought that it would point straight ahead when the rudder was centered (boat going straight). Instead, it points about 30 degrees to starboard. I THINK this is proper; otherwise you couldn't push it far enough to the left (it would hit the hull).

My questions: Is this indeed proper? And is there a rule about where the handle should be positioned when the rudder is centered? Also, should there be any play in the rudder handle (movement before in engages the lines)?

2) The rudder itself: I don't know how far it should swing each way. I would think you would want it to go to 90 degrees, but maybe that's pointless (maybe a rudder can go too far?). I'm asking because it looks like it could go farther, and because I wish the Oasis would make tighter turns.

My question: Is there a rule for how many degrees the rudder should deflect?

I'm new at this and I'm trying to get the boat "right."

Thanks for reading!

Rudder handles can not point straight ahead due to cockpit limitations. If the handle were to swing left of the rail it can get caught on things / expose your steering hand to damage from docks, boats etc.

In addition, the natural comfortable rest position in your hand is off center at about 30 degrees right (for left hands). It works.

Proper centered handle position is mid swing. Rudder should be centered when the handle is set at it's mid swing position.

Rudders which turn to 90 degrees are nothing but a breaking force, so it's unnecessary to turn that far.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Dear Matt,

Thanks for the quick reply.

I just picked up a pen with my left hand and it points at the same angle as the rudder handle, so that "natural position" idea makes good sense to me.

Thanks again!