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| NEW Passport R Series http://www.hobie.com/au/en/forums/viewtopic.php?f=142&t=70060 |
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| Author: | afishinado [ Tue Jul 19, 2022 7:10 am ] |
| Post subject: | NEW Passport R Series |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AN_aWRbSIIY |
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| Author: | flyrcairplanes [ Tue Jul 19, 2022 5:58 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: NEW Passport R Series |
Why did they start rotomolding this kayak? Hoping it is not because the thermoform process wasn’t holding up. Anyone know why? |
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| Author: | plfinch [ Wed Jul 20, 2022 7:19 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: NEW Passport R Series |
I was a bit surprised to see the 12.0 R and non-R have the exact same price, weight, and capacity. Can't imagine Hobie would continue to offer the same models in both rotomolded and thermoformed versions with the same price and specs. I had thought the original Passport used thermoforming because maybe it was cheaper to manufacturer to reach the price point / market segment they were aiming for. My guess is, that for whatever reasons, the 2023 lineup will drop the non-R models and all polyethylene Mirage kayaks will again be rotomolded. (But note the Lynx is still ACE-TEC construction.) Peter |
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| Author: | plfinch [ Thu Jul 21, 2022 5:41 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: NEW Passport R Series |
This article does imply the use of thermoforming in the original Passport series was to reduce manufacturing cost and weight. It also notes those Passports are built in France while the R models are made in the US, and confirms same price and weight. https://kayakanglermag.com/boats/kayaks/icast-hobie-passport-r-series/ Possibilities: 1. Europe continue to get the French thermoformed Passports while North America gets rotomolded R models. (And what happens elsewhere around the globe?) 2. All regions get both versions. (I just can't see Hobie continuing one kayak line with 2 very different manufacturing processes.) 3. Thermoformed Passports are phased out in favor of R models globally. (And maybe France shifts to rotomolding?) Peter |
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| Author: | Tarazona01 [ Sat Jul 23, 2022 2:15 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: NEW Passport R Series |
I think you all have excellent thoughts. Personally I don't care if Roto or Thermo... as long as the quality standards remain. My issues are with price and supply. Because of supply issues... We still can't get the much needed XL rudder upgrade at this time. Out of stock everywhere, and no idea when to expect them. Now... this is a problem to me. |
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| Author: | AlwaysSharper [ Sat Oct 08, 2022 8:41 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: NEW Passport R Series |
Thermoforming is cheaper, but shipping them from France was supposed to offset the additional cost of rotomolding. Unfortunately, the passport 10.5r and 12r have already seen a price increase as of this weekend. The 10.5 is $1799 and 12.0 is $1999. Borderline leaving the budget market and approaching mid range prices. Hobie should REALLY offer the passports with a 180 drive to set them apart, or at least make it optional. |
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